ML 270 in limp mode question

[cpfbma]

Evening
i have a 2003 ML 270 , 140k miles in limp mode
Had various nonSTAR diagnostics plugged in , telling me its a P 1189 Or its an MAF
Cleared on ECU , but still in limp mode.
Fault is intermittent
Will replace MAF first , is it best to buy Merc or Pierburg ?
Then if no good , how easy to get the manifold swirl valves motor on manifold ? its on the underside i think , so is this manifold off i presume
thanks in advance

 

[91dm]

What's the symptoms, going into limp on heavy acceleration? Does it go out of limp if you stop and restart? Any black smoke or fuel consumption up?

Sounds like the MAF, go for genuine.

 

[cpfbma]

thanks very much
fuel ok - well as good as can be for Ml270 , bit of black smoke under heavy acceleration
constantly in limp mode now , started on and of , but constant now

Also to change serpentine belt , do I need to remove the rad or just loosen the front structure , or can you do as is

thanks again all - Top forum !!

 

[91dm]

Hmm without changing the maf it is hard to rule it out. Usually will come back out of limp on restart though. Have you ever changed the maf?

Belt can be changed without removing anything, although space is tight.

 

[cpfbma]

MAF changed - no difference
If i start the car and accelerate quickly , i get plumes of black smoke - then seems to go into limp mode and limits power
on diag it did say inlet port open - is that manifold mtor then ?

 

[91dm]

Did you reset the codes after replacing the MAF?

How does it sound on tick over?

 

[cpfbma]

Update
manifold swirl flap connecting rod was flapping about , engine also covered in oil. So removed manifold eventually , and motor linkage broken and had been broken for a while
now have dilemma. do i remove the swirl flaps , seal the holes and put a resistor across the motor interconnect OR but a new manifold with motor and reconnect ?

any advice ? swirl flaps have been leaking for years , everything is caked in oil . plan to replace with bolts and and washers , appreciate any comments

thanks all

 

[exvolvoman]

I think you can get repair kits for them...

 

[91dm]

I would definitely take the opportunity to blank them!

 

[myellow]

Does anyone know of someone (inexpensive) in the Herts/Beds/Bucks area who could take off my W163 inlet manifold, clean out, blank swirl flap holes and put the resistor thingy on?

I had this problem a while ago and had the entire manifold removed and cleaned out, but sadly it has returned.

I'm based in St Albans and have a 2005 ML270cdi, 140k. It's a great workhorse of a car, but I don't want to throw away money on it!