Replacing aerial rubber grommet

[bcl7]

I've been attempting to replace the rubber aerial grommet on my S124 E220 without success. Is there a trick to getting the rubber to slot in properly? I tried putting it in hot water for a while and used washing up liquid but couldn't get it to go in. Maybe there is a plastic tool I could buy which would make it easier (tried an old credit card without success!). Would be grateful for your suggestions, and sorry if it's been asked somewhere before, I couldn't find a thread. I have the same problem with the rubber on the boot lock which has been off for some time now as I couldn't manage to refit it! Thanks.

 

[DITTRICH]

The gromit on my s124 has been there for 17 years. When I replaced the hirschmann aerial, I simply left the old gromit in place and pushed the new aerial up through it from the inside. I assume that you are trying to push it in from the outside and it is a proper mb part? If it is not an expensive part you could try shaving a little bit around the lower outer circumference with a craft knife (at your own risk of course).

 

[NW_Merc]

The grommet should just fall or be gently pushed into the hole, you could use some blunt edge tool, preferably plastic as metal will damage the painwork.

 

[300CE]

I bought an aftermarket one from eBay and had to cut it down slightly in order for it to fit - match it up against your old one and mark/cut accordingly. I then rubbed some fairy liquid on it and with a bit of forceful pushing/twisting got it to fit fine.

 

[bcl7]

Thanks for the advice. The aerial was replaced two years ago before I bought the car, and I always thought the grommet that was there looked a bit odd - it's only now I've realised that the garage who replaced the aerial reinstalled the grommet upside down! Helpful; also the top cover that sits over it was missing. So I bought a new Beru kit from GSF which was very cheap, it seems good quality but just very difficult to fit. I'll try shaving a bit off it I think, I can't imagine it will affect the waterproofing very much (more than it has been for the last two years anyway!).

 

[300CE]

Hi BCL, as long as the fit is snug it shouldnt affect the waterproofing.

 

[Martyn_n]

Just a quick note about these grommets, they are usually listed at about £12 on ebay for the two parts (Grommet and outer trim), they are only £6 from the main dealers.