What can't you do DIY

[The Mirror Man]

...to an E class? I know a lot depends on ability, but aside from that, what can't be done?

 

[whitenemesis]

What model year?

 

[toolman1954]

Have a read of this .........as to what can be done ....
http://www.mbclub.co.uk/forums/mbclub-projects/215529-brutus-e55k-project.html

How good a mechanic are you ?
What sort of kit have you got?
What repair facilities do you have?

 

[PobodY]

Unless you've got experience and the right welder, I wouldn't attempt doing your own welding. - I've got a friend who says the rule of thumb is don't work on any part that you can't lift by yourself.

By that logic: engine modifications that don't require you to take the block out; suspension parts, but not axles; interior and trim parts; external bodywork, but not welding or modifying the monocoque.

 

[daveenty]

I've got a friend who says the rule of thumb is don't work on any part that you can't lift by yourself.

After coming unstuck on various bits of things over the years, I totally agree with this. Neighbours hate me now (Just give me a lift with this gearbox/subframe/axle for a minute please)

 

[grober]

Most jobs involving electronics without the correct diagnostic equipment. The more modern the model is the more proprietorial the diagnostic equipment becomes . If I was to put a date on it I would say post 2008-2010 ish forget anything but the simplest wiring/fuse replacement without the right kit.

 

[The Mirror Man]

Cheers guys. it is likely to be a 2003-06 270 or 320cdi.
I never touch the electrical fizzy stuff. It's the mechanical things I am wondering about. At present I do all my own maintenance: servicing, changing suspension, brake, ancillary parts, even the clutch and gear box on my previous car. I have all the general tools and workshop. But I keep hearing that you can't work on an E class and was wondering if special tools were needed for jobs that just need standard tool on other makes.

 

[grober]

Remember if its a W211 the early ones had SBC brakes!