W124 central locking vacuum pump

[HoppoE320]

Hi all

I have a newly-bought E320 1995. The central locking worked on both doors and boot lid, but not the fuel flap lock. Then the doors/boot locks failed. I suspect the problem is either the fuel flap actuator of perhaps the pump itself. I have located it, but disconnecting the yellow vacuum lines has defeated me, not helped by the cramped access. Is there a special tool to open out all 4 lugs that secure each to the manifold without breaking any?

 

[bolide]

The pipes just pull out. Prizing the lugs open will just break them

Why remove the pump? Put a voltmeter on the feeds first, see if there is power there and watch what happens when the car is locked & unlocked

Nick Froome

 

[HoppoE320]

thanks, Bolide

are we talking about the same pump? I need to check each pipe for leaks, and there is no way they are going to pull out of their sockets easily. pic attached

best

Ian

 

[CreosoteChris]

I changed the pump on my 220CE a few months ago.

The vacuum tubes pulled off reasonably easily using narrow-jawed pliers - took a bit of persuasion but not a huge amount - never felt I was coming close to breaking any plastic. Just rotate them a bit as you pull.

Regards Chris
93 220CE, auto, red / black leather, 105k, Manchester

 

[HoppoE320]

Many thanks, CreosoteChris

I'll give it a whirl.

all very best

Ian

 

[bolide]

Apply logic. The pump works because other doors lock & unlock. So don't disturb the pump

Remove the filler flap actuator, disconnect the yellow pipe and blow / suck into the hole in the actuator to see if it works

Nick Froome

 

[HoppoE320]

OK. Got the pipes off (narrow nose pliers!) and vacuum pump out, and as I feared the motor is shorted out and needs replacing, easiest to get the whole unit of which there seem to be plenty around. I still reckon the fuel flap actuator may be stuffed also, but how on earth does one release it to get it out? It feels like there might just be a clip holding it in place, but ....?

best

Ian