Hi,
I am looking for repair instruction to disconnect/replace the outside handle of my ML 320. Actually I have to replace the burnt rear side door latch actuator. I was able to open the trim pannel and other stuff. But could not figure out how to disconnect the outside handle from the latch so I could take out the burnt latch. If someone has repair manual and can send me pdf files of instruction I will appreciate. It could be how to replace the rear side door latch or how to replace the rear outside handle both, will be helpful.
Open the rear door. Looking from the inside, look at the door directly opposite of where the rear door handle is mounted on the door. If you draw an imaginary line from where the key lock would be straight back you will see a hole in the door panel. Use a flashlight and peer into the hole. There is a small screw that uses a hex wrench. this screw holds the handle on from the inside. You need to get a extra long hex wrench (I don't remember what size, t15, t30) anyway, you buy the tools in packs anyway.
Basically after you unscrew the bolt, you can pull the door handle open (like your opening the door) and the back portion will pull out (since you took out the screw). Reverse to install. Once the handle is out the lock mechanism will come out after you unscrew the 2 mounting screws on near the lock opening in the side of the door.
Like I said in my mail, when I get to my car sometime this weekend, I can probably take some snaps. But remember you will still need to drill out and punch in at least one rivet from the window track to get the lock out. If you can't do this then take it to any decent mechanic and get it done. Most cars are similar so they can figure it out. Plus they will have all the tools and can be done in notime.
the lower rivet holding the window track closest to the door lock. Once you drill out the rivet you can turn the bottom of the track towards the front of the car and then slide the lock past it and out. This way you only have to drill out one. Make sure your window is all the way up before you start of course.
If you don't do this it's impossible to get the lock out of the door.
I'm pretty sure it'll be the same location also but please update this thread if you find anything different.
You can use any drill with a small bit. Make sure you don't make the hole larger. You only need to drill through the center of the rivet so it can collapse into itself and can be pulled out.
To reinsert you will need a rivet gun and the rivet blanks of course. It's a special tool that you can commonly buy in hardware or auto stores. here is a quick listing from google
http://www.cumminstools.com/browse.cfm/4,379.html
Personally. I did everything including removing everything but went to my local mechanic to have him drill and replace the rivet. Cost me $10. I didn't want to invest in the tools or store them afterward. He drilled out the original, I did the repair then he came back and popped the new one in, I drove home and finished the work. Of course I have a good relationship with my mechanic.
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