Slipping manual w210 E200

[Rob Collins]

Hello,

So, I have a very clean W210 E200 from 1999 and I'm trying to see what is worth doing to it to get it into its best state.

It has the usual issues with electric window motors, sunroof and AC blower. These I can handle.

The big issue is what feels certainly like the clutch slipping. Uphill acceleration starts losing power with the revs going up above 4K. Up to 80-100kph is fine, but towards 120kph, revs start climbing to 4k.

I had resigned to getting quotes for a new clutch, but I'm wondering if there are any other checks I can do to make absolutely sure (brake/clutch fluid, etc.) I've only had my hands on this car for 24 hours, so am unfamiliar with it.

Also, are there any engine layout diagrams. I've identified the fuse box and oil bits, so far!

Thanks in advance.

Rob

 

[LostKiwi]

Slipping clutches can be due to wear, oil on the plate or adjustment. Not sure if there is any adjustment on MBs.
When you put your foot in the clutch is there any free play in the movement? If so it rules out adjustment.

 

[Rob Collins]

Hi Kiwi,

Thanks for the reply.

The only thing I noticed about the clutch pedal was that it seemed a bit high. As in - my foot was close to being off the pedal before it bit.

 

[LostKiwi]

Just checked. There is no adjustment so looks like a new clutch.

If you bought from a car dealer take it back to them to resolve.

 

[Rob Collins]

It was a "barn find", so I guess I'll just have to get some quotes.

Thanks.

 

[LostKiwi]

It was a "barn find", so I guess I'll just have to get some quotes.

Thanks.

One thing you could check is if there is an adjustment on the pushrod between the master cylinder and pedal. The clevis pin should not be under any significant pressure.

 

[Rob Collins]

OK,

Is the pin on the car side, or the engine side of the bulkhead?

I live on an island, so I'll be able to check things when the ferry's back in the morning!

Thanks again...

 

[Rob Collins]

Never mind! I'm just looking at an exploded clutch pedal assembly image now...

 

[matthew k]

Sounds very much like the clutch is worn, I doubt it's a particuarly bad job, I'm sure a half decent mecanic with a ramp could have it done in less than 3 hours. Don't cheap out too much on the parts, I'm sure you can get a LUK kit for a good price.

Is it rust free, there is something nice about a clean W210, being a manual is also interesting.

 

[Rob Collins]

Thanks Matthew,

It is rust free. Just a 1cm bubble at the base of the drivers' door. Very clean.

I'll swing it by the local garage tomorrow and see what they say. Also, looking into clutch kit prices...

 

[Rob Collins]

Just to update, it was the clutch! As suspected.

I did bring it to a local garage and the mechanic said that there was no issue with the clutch. Two weeks later, it went completely and the mechanic replaced it at a discount!

It's running great now, but next project is a new tensioner pulley and O2 sensor.

Thanks for all the input and advice.