[sosh]

Originally Posted by fabbrisd1

One thing is that your '98 survivied, and I mean it should have had all the recalls and updates from those years or it wouldldn't be on the road today - all to the good.

Water pump replacements, although not rare, do happen about that mileage - the key thing with a ML is to get a proper flush and refill with correct coolant - a lot of older ML's have had incorrect coolant at one time or another, it happens, and a double flush helps clean out any old-old junk.

If I had a ML with 100K - and was looking to see what strategic pre-emptive maintainence I might consider, not in order of improtance:

-Check power steering reservoir and hoses. Reservoir o-ring and reservoir whining from that year can be easily and affordably DIY replaced for under $100 incl correct MB fluid.

- I would suggest $5 cleaning of the MAF, and/or if original age of MAF unknown I would consider a pre-emptive replacement of the MAF insert itself which can only work to the good for you with improved performance. (under $200 - be selective where you buy the part)

- I would have the aircon evac'd and recharged, on the evac they can detect any slow leaks. Proper fill with fresh R134 is a earnest way to maxmize the usefulness before major aircon (under $100 at a aircon indie)

- Inspect and replace engine belt, also have tensioner replaced if required (check w/indie shop)

-Have the transfer case serviced with both full fluid change and filter change. (indie should be about $250, using correct MB fluid)

- I would run a good injector cleaner like BG44K (not the junkie retail stuff), 2nd choice large bottle Techron (under $25)

- I would replace the air filter with a proper MB filter, and do a thorough cleanup of the whole intake Under $30)

- I would consider new wires and plugs - for me I would only do new wires + plugs together, but that is me. I haven't had to do this yet on any of my ML's.

- New cabin filter (under $25)

- Replace the wipers all around with new MB OE blades (new look)

-check window washer reservoir and underneath for leaking

-get a new brake switch (under $20) for sure

- I would check and replace battery as needed, going into the hot season. ML's do not give warning signs of battery failure. If you are on your original battery (made by Interstate) then give yourself congrats and replace it with a new MB battery. If you have the 2nd/3rd off-brand battery in there, then getting thru this hot summer is your call.

- On higher mileage and older cars, I choose to replace windshields which is affordable under $250 most places, and gives me a new few without pits and scratches from age,

But like I say, it's all individual choice on how to keep your truck up, I might sound anal - but heck that's me !

Doubtful if he is on his original battery which by the way was never made by Interstate. Interstate has never even made a battery they are a marketing and sales organization that has batteries made for them, some by Johnson Controls and some by others. The original battery in the 98 and subsequent years was a German product.