I need to replace the spark plugs in my '99 ML 430 (113 engine). I am aware of the tools shown in the tool catalog elsewhere on this site. Does anyone have experience with a special tool designed for the ML to remove the plug wires? Same question for a spark plug socket. Suggestions for where to buy also appreciated.

Any precautions to follow other than the usual when replacing plugs in an aluminum head?

Thank you for your help!

Jim Herold

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Jim Herold--Current: 1987 190E 16V, 1999 ML 430--Past: 1971 280 SL, 1972 250

Jim....pretty easy to replace. If i remember correctly a 17mm open-end wrench comes in handy to help remove the boots. A shot of WD40 before wouldn't hurt either. Another wrench or screwdriver under the wrench to use as a lever in some cases helps also.

Go ahead and remove airbox on left (facing engine) and put hood in most-upright position. If you really want to make a day out of it remove wheel-well liners to gain better access to plugs and then clean liners thoroughly before reinstalling. Details, details, details.........

I see you had a 280SL at one point. I was the proud owner of a 63 230SL in the '80's. Boy, i would love to have her back !! That W113 body is one of my all-time favorites !!

Good luck with the project. You can save big bucks by doing it yourself. Oh, and save yourself a trip back to the parts store by picking up 16 sparkplugs not 8.........

See http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w163-m-class/1171331-i-just-replaced-my-spark-plugs.html

i would like to no what special tools what plugs for a 99 ml430? and do you need to remove fender wells? thanks bob

No 'special' tools. just your regular assortment of rachets/extensions/swivels/etc. Fender wheel removal is not required but can help with access to plugs.

Following from my original post that opened this thread: I have since bought the Merecedes service manual on CD for the 163 chassis (Part No. T-2700-163-05 available for $130 @ 800-222-0100). I could not locate any dealer or other supply source for it than mbusa. The CD covers this maintenance job and many others. It is the only service/maintenance documentation available at this time for the 163 and covers MY 1998 up to MY 2005 for the ML320, ML350, ML430, ML500, and ML55 AMG.

I also bought the double offset 17mm wrench shown on page 35 of the tool catalog on this site (Part No 110-0101). The offset greatly increases ease of access and leverage when removing the boots compared to a straight 17mm wrench. As it turns out, this tool is also the one shown in the Mercedes CD.

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Jim Herold--Current: 1987 190E 16V, 1999 ML 430--Past: 1971 280 SL, 1972 250

Please comment on ease of use. If you are familiar with the WIS, how would you compare as far as ease of use and completeness of information.

I've never used the WIS system so I can't compare. Does the WIS offer complete maintenance and repair information on the ML series?

The CD contains a special viewing application which you initially load. Once istalled, the Viewer auto starts. Navigation through the material is logical and straightforward. You begin by entering year and model. The content is then specific to the vehicle and seems quite complete, on a par with that in printed MBZ factory manuals. (However, I seem to always get into something not covered in the maunals.) If something is lacking, this CD still is the only technical "manual(s)" that I'm aware that Mercedes has made available for the ML series.

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Jim Herold--Current: 1987 190E 16V, 1999 ML 430--Past: 1971 280 SL, 1972 250