(2001 S55): About two 3 weeks ago I changed my front brakes (dealer parts). My rotors were not thin and did not make noise. After I replaced the brakes I started to get a loud squeak upon braking, on traffic stops, only from one side. So it turned out the outer edge of the rotor is somewhat pointy and thicker than rest of the rotor. No de-squeak spray can take care of it. I thought to go ahead and change the rotor as well now. So, is it Ok to replace the rotor now using the same brake pads? (I purchased the same type of rotor I have on" Zimmer.... drilled).

My brother can do this for me, but does taking the caliper off require some special tool other than regular wrenches and sockets? I always assume that a Mercedes will have some special tools. Anything I need?

 

caliper removal is easy torx or 12 alan then 18mm or 21mm socket for removal of the caliper holder.

 

Ok....It was easy to change the rotor. Job done. Now is it also easy to change the thermostat? and flush the radiator?
Also, I hear sometimes what sounds like one of the pulleys. How can I tell which of the pulleys needs replacement?

 

Thermostat is easy enough if you study it long enough.

Flushing radiator? I'd simply drain it and the block, and USE ONLY MERCEDES ANTIFREEZE or XEREX 05! The only two approved antifreezes.

As for pulley noises, pull the belt off and spin all the accessories. You'll find the bad one simple enough. It's probably just one of the idlers needing replacing, hopefully.

You can buy a complete repair manual on DVD from Mercedes at www.mbusa.com. Reasonably priced for what you get.

And of course, if you are in the USA, you can sign up for free EPC at http://epc.startekinfo.com/epc/login.jsp. They'll ask for a credit card, but that is just to verify address. You won't get charged, just like they say.
EPC is a good resource to see how things are assembled and of course to look up part numbers. There are NO assembly instructions though in EPC.

 

Oh, I have that DVD from mercedes. Never looked at it yet. It won't work on my MAC and I didn't know that. My desktop is windows but the CD ROM is not working . I am working on it. I will try looking at it before replacing the thermostat. It just looked a little harder than replacing brakes lol. As far as the pulley I will do that and see what happens. I have an extra new belt but don't want to use it yet. I think the one I have is Ok. I will post a pic of it and let you see. Oh, I have the antifreeze from the dealer, It got confusing when I read on the back of it about how much is needed. Do I use the whole thing and then add water? Or maybe the CD will tell me. Thanks for your answers.