any diy instructions for replacing front struts/ rear brake pads on 03 clk500?
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clk500 2003
any diy instructions for replacing front struts/ rear brake pads on 03 clk500?
is replacing the front struts something simple or should ya take it to the mechanic?
rear pads i need to replace there getting a bit worn..any special tools needed to replace them?
thanks in advance!!!
rear pads i need to replace there getting a bit worn..any special tools needed to replace them?
thanks in advance!!!
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Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 624
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From: Las Vegas
1987 190E 2.3
rear pads i need to replace there getting a bit worn..any special tools needed to replace them?
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Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 13
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From: Wilton, Connecticut
2003 CLK320, 2000 BMW MCoupe, 1999 BMW 323iS, 1992 Audi 100CS quattro wagon, 1991 Dodge Colt
Well it all depends on your interest and experience. I have done break pads on my 2003 CLK 320, and they are some of the simplest of all the cars I have worked on, because you do not need to take out the caliper from the caliper bracket. The pads simply slide out through the side of the caliper furthest frmo the center of the rotor (the side that faces toward the rear of the car), after you drift a couple of lock pins out of the caliper. The only "special" tool I remember needing can be replaced by a strong long nail (2-3 mm thick and 7 mm long) to use as a drift for said pins.
Now about the front struts. Disclaimer: I have not done struts on the 320 yet, but I have dome them on numerous BMWs and Volkswagens of similar design. This is a step or two above replacing brake pads. You will definitely need a set of strut spring compressors, and, for convenience, a special socket to tighten the strut tower nut of the strut, whicle holding the shock piston fixed with another wrench. I will be happy to send you the relevant section out of the MB repair manual DVD, so that you can decide if it makes sense for you to attempt the repair.
Now about the front struts. Disclaimer: I have not done struts on the 320 yet, but I have dome them on numerous BMWs and Volkswagens of similar design. This is a step or two above replacing brake pads. You will definitely need a set of strut spring compressors, and, for convenience, a special socket to tighten the strut tower nut of the strut, whicle holding the shock piston fixed with another wrench. I will be happy to send you the relevant section out of the MB repair manual DVD, so that you can decide if it makes sense for you to attempt the repair.
