ML 430 Oil Change!

I recently purchased an ML 430 and I am about to do my first oil change. I got the OEM oil filter from the dealer which is nothing close to any of the other type of conventional filters that I am used to. I need help on finding out the exact engine oil capacity and oil grade I need to put in. If anyone can help I would much appriciate it!<br>
Thanks,<br>
Lloyd

Lloyd, Let me ask you this one first..Did you buy your ML brand new or used? If you buy it new, oil change is free, its a part of the warranty 4 years 50 miles. Here is another one what year is your ML if its 2000 model it should be covered also. If its still under warranty the dealer is going to use Mobil 1, I just don't know the grade they are using. When they did mine they still using regular oil and they use 20-50w and the capacity of the crankcase is 8 1/2 qt.<br>
If you are in doubt call your dealer and they should be able to help you.Good Luck.<br>
Jim

Hi: Slow down and get the correct tools first. <br>
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The ML 430 has the cartridge filter element and it is easy enough to change, BUT, it is very helpful to have the Mercedes cast aluminum CAP that unscrews the entire assembly. $20 ish<br>
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There is a long internal plastic stymm / spindle that you place/slide the cartrifge onto and you have to pay careful attention here.<br>
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There is a slight difference between the 320 and 430 stymm and the "O" rings are a critical element to make sure you place them on correctly.<br>
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More importantly once the element is replacced and you are ready to reinstall, you need a torque wrench to reinstall the "plastic stymm & filter assembly cover". It is a very unforgiving torque proceedure: 1) under torque: it will blow out and oil goes everywhere, 2) over torque: the plastic will break off in the engine. <br>
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I had my ML 430 blow the top seal (probable my undertorque) and oil went everyehere. A dealer mechanic was removing the stymm and reinstalling a new filter. I witnessed him break it off (his over torque) in the engine and the dealership had to go fishing for some 4 hours. A new 430 spindle stymm had to be gotten in because the 320 stymm was slightly different.<br>
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It ended well, but cost 10 hours of greif and frustration with only 5K on the vehicle. The entire engine bay was awash with oil. It was a mess.<br>
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I would recommend having a dealer mechanic instruct you the first time. The cap and torque wrench will make it happen consistantly, even for a dealer! Since the ML's have been here nearly 3 years, the technique at the dealership is now refined, repeatable and reliable.<br>
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I still change it much more often than the book says. Old School!