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Hi guys,
I'm here for some DIY advice again. I spent the last 5 hours reading post after post but I can't find anything helpful. So I'm sorry if there is an existing post, but I can't find it...
I have a 2001 S500 and after I changed my spark plugs I realized heavy vibrations. First I thought I messed something up with the spark plugs, so I double checked everything. Sparks plugs looked fine to me so I kept looking around. I realized an increase in torque after I changed the spark plugs so I checked engine/transmission mounts and they are OK. Then I checked the Flex Disc.... they are both cracked and I have to replace them immediately because I'm not going to risk them to break.
While looking around underneath my car I realized that the exhaust system and the heat shield is in the way to get a fully exposed view onto the drive train.
-If I want to change the front and rear flex disc, do I have to take out the exhaust system and the heat shield or can I change the front Flex Disc without too many problems if I don't take everything out?
-Do I need any special tools?
-Any special torques I should know about, or is "tight" good enough for the six bolts on the Flex Disc?
- could anyone please tell me the steps to change the Flex Discs or does anyone have some pictures? Just would make it so much easier for me if I would already know what I have to expect.
While I'm already down there taking everything apart, I'll change the transmission mount too. (just in case)
I would highly appreciate some information's before I'll do the job. If there are no pictures available yet, I'll make sure I'll upload pictures and work progress in a couple of weeks.
Tusabes,
like i mentioned in my first post, I checked all the wires and the engine runs absolutely smooth up to 5000 rpm. Vibrations are only present while going over a certain velocity. I checked the the engine mount and it looks good to me.
Also, a loose plug or a bad coil would give me some sort of a code on my laptop.
I'm not sure about the transmission mount but I'll change it while I change the flex discs anyways. Take a look at my flex disc and you'll believe that they cause heavy vibration.
Daniel,
I'm also changing everything else that you recommended. Do you remember how long it took you to finish the job?
I also ordered a new transmission mount to change that. I will replace both flex discs and the center support.
Do you have any part numbers for the clamps from the exhaust system? mine are pretty rusted so I might have to cut them open but I can't find any part numbers to order new clamps.
I didn't time myself because I could only work when I had some free time available. I regard it has a hobby, therefore, I prefer to work at a very relaxed pace.
Exhaust Flange - Converter to Muffler 126-492-08-45
Exhaust Bolt - 8 X 1.25 X 58 mm 129-990-04-10 Seal Ring 2024920281 or 2014920281
Please let a dealer confirm the part numbers before you place the order.
Daniel, I just received most of the necessary parts by now so I'll do the job this Saturday. I hope I'll get it done in one day. The shop where I can rent a lift is only open from 10am-5pm so I keep my hopes up I don't have to leave my car there and finish it another day.
Just one more question: Do I have to balance the drive-shaft afterwards or not? I hope I don't because I'm living in the desert and I have no clue who could do that job.
You have made progress, and now comes the exciting part of your endeavour!
If you mark the front and rear shafts properly (see point 7 of the write-up) and reassemble the splines in their original grooves, then the driveshaft would probably be as balanced as it had been before the replacement of the flex discs.
I would also recommend that you take pictures of the orientation of the discs and paint markings on the flange of both the front/rear propeller shaft and the flange of the differential/transmission before you remove them to ensure that they remain in phase when installed (point 9).
I repaired my car last weekend and I have to say: the car lift was really handy. The job was way easier than expected (if you have the right tools). We finished the job in only six hours.
I'm not a mechanic but it was a really easy job. Just make sure that you mark everything before you take it apart so the drive train stays balanced.
Everyone who thinks about doing it yourself: go ahead. With Daniels DIY list, it is really easy.
My car runs like a champ again w/out any vibrations.
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