Hi! New to the forum, very happy to be here I replaced the power steering pump in my 2003 mercedes c240 2.6L and after two days the mounts to which the pump is mounted to broke off (two mounts). Not the mounts on the pump itself, just for clarification. It looks like they're attached to the engine, but not sure. Can someone please suggest the best way to fix this problem? Thank you SO much in advance for your assistance. Have a great day!

 

Hello, I am a millwright, and broken parts such as these are very common in the large equipment I usually work on. There are 3 ways to deal with this issue, providing it is not the engine block that is the issue. #1 a new part from the dealer, or an auto wrecker. #2 remove the broken parts and either weld them back together, or fabricate a new part. The 3rd method is to not do it yourself, and pay a shop to do it. I suggest either a used part, or repair the broken part. It takes me about 15 minutes to remove a broken bracket and 5 to re-weld it. Another 15 to install it Option #1 can be a painfully long process, and option #3 is going to cost more than an anniversary meal in a good restaurant Good luck Allan

 

Hi Allan- Thank you for the reply. A better description on there the break is. When bolting the PS pump from the back (towards vehicle cabin), there are two aluminum 'tabs' with threads coming from what I understand to be the timing cover. These 'tabs' (as I call them) or dog ears are what the pump bolts too and are what is broken. From what I understand the timing cover needs to be replaced in order to fix the problem. I don't know this for sure and am hoping there is a better fix, or a suggestion from someone who has experience such as yourself. Thanks again

 

Hello RFARR, I am a professional as I stated. Based on what you added, For your SAFETY , I strongly encourage you to replace the cover with a undamaged part. What you describe are properly called the fastener mounts for the power steering pump . This is a structural issue that your life depends on. Cast steel and cast aluminum require special welding procedures and will be shockingly expensive. The reason is by USA law and other countries as well, your welder must be certified and follow a factory procedure.In this case the factory procedure probably takes 4 hours and includes an x-ray. I supervised one 2 days ago and it required heating both parts to 550 f, tig welding and controlled cool down time took 5 hours. If anyone suggests a 2 part epoxy repair, run.
Realistically try auto wreckers or Kijiji. you may find a new or used part at a reasonable price. You can replace the cover yourself if you can not afford to pay someone. Good luck and be safe Allan