Looking for a way to raise the front end of my e320 to do oil changes, etc. Don't trust jackstands, and afraid that using curb will leave some sludge on one edge of oil pan. Saw some ramps yesterday called Rhino Ramps that have a lower incline and claim they are suitable for SUVs and sports cars. I remember trying to use my dads steeper metal ones 15 years ago and remember them sliding everywhere when trying to drive up on them. Any opinions on using ramps for the e320?
RE: Ok to use ramps to raise e320, recommendations?
I've used the Rhino Ramps before and could not get the car up on there. The thing just kept slipping.[:(!] After 1 hour of trying I finally gave and returned it for a full refund. I ended up just using the floor jack.
A friend of mine said I should try the ramps out on the street where the surface is more rougher instead of a smooth surface like my garage floor. But I don't know about that I have too many nosy neighbors here.
RE: Ok to use ramps to raise e320, recommendations?
Thanks for the advice. Yeah, I remember that from my first experience with ramps. I wonder if putting a sandbag behind the ramp would help. I remember my dad telling me I was going to slow and that was why the ramps kept sliding. Hate to gun it on those things. I searched Rhino Ramps and it appears to be the choice of owners of low clearance cars, such as BMW's and Corvettes. I may just purchase a Topsider and suction the oil out on top.
RE: Ok to use ramps to raise e320, recommendations?
Quote:
87path - 2/20/2006 1:56 PM
I wonder if putting a sandbag behind the ramp would help. I remember my dad telling me I was going to slow and that was why the ramps kept sliding. Hate to gun it on those things.
Sandbags might just be a very good idea. Yeah I would hate to gun it on those ramps too, my brother did that and he actually got all four wheels off the ground. [:0] Yes the ramp ended up in the center of the car.
I have the Rhino ramps and they hold the Benz pretty well. Hope it helps. [:)]
__________________
“Design embodies the values of a company. Even if there were no star, the car must always be recognizable as a Mercedes-Benz.” Peter Pfeiffer, Daimler AG
RE: Ok to use ramps to raise e320, recommendations?
I have Rhino ramps, the work best on my driveway with a exposed aggregate surface (small pebbles). But they work in my garage too, but I placed old floormats under the ramps to prevent slippage. Definitely better than metal ramps.
RE: Ok to use ramps to raise e320, recommendations?
Hey, 87.
You can certainly use ramps if you want, but there's nothing wrong with the curb if used creatively.
For example if you check out the method in this DIY pictorial oil change post for the E320, it actually drains the oil towards the plug, so there's no sludge issue. [:)]
RE: Ok to use ramps to raise e320, recommendations?
Quote:
gregs210 - 2/24/2006 7:04 AM
Hey, 87.
You can certainly use ramps if you want, but there's nothing wrong with the curb if used creatively.
For example if you check out the method in this DIY pictorial oil change post for the E320, it actually drains the oil towards the plug, so there's no sludge issue. [:)]
RE: Ok to use ramps to raise e320, recommendations?
Thanks for the good replies. I just found a great deal on Rhino Ramps from Wal Mart - $38.00 for the 12k pound ones. Other stores were asking that price for the smaller 8k pound ones. Tried them out with two large dog food bags =) behind them so they won't slide and they work great! No bottoming out or anything. Highly recommend them. I'm planning on following the DIY post for changing my oil underneath very soon.
RE: Ok to use ramps to raise e320, recommendations?
Hey, 87path.
If you're going to use the ramps for the oil change, don't raise just the front of the car. You'll actually trap oil in the back of the pan. The drain plug on the V6 is on the right side of the engine and closer to the front of the drop in the oil pan (look at the other pics in the gallery link above), check the specific one below). If you can fit the ramp in front of the left rear tire, then you can raise the left side on the ramps and drain the oil towards the plug without trapping it.
If you raise just the left side there is still plenty of room to get in and drop the underbody panel and drain the oil. Don't forget a new gasket![;)]
Linear Mode
