Brake system flush - can it be done w/o star diagnosis system?

[jpuzas]

Guys,
Thanks for the information on the brake pad replace I am sure this will save gobs of money in the future.

My next question is: What is the procedure for the brake system flush and can it be done w/o deactivating SBC?

I have a SpeediBleed which I use for all of my cars. It uses the tire pressure and a regulator to pressure flush the braking system. Works fantastically. Can something like this be used? I read in the training docs that the fluid comes out at a very high pressure and a special bleeding system is required. Is there anyway to uplug or deactivate SBC so I can do the system flush with my SpeediBleed?


Jeff.

[paulv]

Jeff,
Forget about it -- I already researched this out a long time ago. The SBC has to be exercised via Star Diags. There is a company in Taiwan that makes a unit that will allow you to do this (as well as disable/enable the SBC for brake work). I checked them out and they wanted $500+ shipping for the unit. Hardly a bargain for a weekend mechanic when I can have the dealer do it for around $130.

Also sent you a PM.

Regards,
paul...

[drivbiwire]

Actually....

Yes it can be bled without using the internal pump of the SBC system.

First off you will need a "Motive Power Bleeder, Model #0109" $69.95 http://www.motiveproducts.com/02bleeders.html

Next you may want to use a miti-vac and suction out all the old fluid from the reservoir.

Reference MB Document# bb0040p033001a you MUST USE ONLY DOT-4 PLUS (MB technical specification 331.1) due to the 2year replacement intervals on the late model MB vehicles. Without getting too technical i't simply a better fluid with more reserve for absorbing water without losing it's boiling point advantage over DOT-3.

NOTE: The fluid is EXTREMELY "Hygrospcopic" meaning it rapidly absorbs water from air! If this fluid is left unopened for more than a few hours it is rendered "Unusable"! For this reason and due to the vent bore in the brake reservoir which allows for expansion and contraction as well as varying fluid levels the fluid MUST be replaced every 2 years for safetly reasons.

Recomendations: MB recomends replacing Brake fluid in the Spring season for best year around fluid performance.

Since these cars are sold around the world where tools and specialized equipment are often not available MB provides for bleeding the brake system WITHOUT the STAR Diagnosis system! To be quite frank, it's easier than using the STAR Diagnosis! The best part is you do not have to connect battery chargers to power the SBC, it's faster to be honest!

The procedure is outlined in the "AR42.10-P-0010T" paper...Any dealer can pull this up for you and print it out. Applies to W211 & W219 Models

Summary:
-Suck out old fluid in reservoir
-Top off with NEW UNOPENED DOT-4 PLUS fluid ONLY!
-Connect Motive Bleeder which has been filled with NEW UNOPENED DOT-4 PLUS fluid!
-Pressurize the brake system with the Motive Bleeder (20 psi via the integrated pump)
-Bleed all four calipers
-Inspect for leaks
-Depressurize the system, CAUTION: DO NOT SPRAY THE FLUID, otherwise you will be getting a new paint job...

Job Complete!

I would say that you are looking at $100.00 for the first fluid change then the cost of fluid there after.

I always suggest replacing the fluid if it starts to take on a carmel color which is an indicator of fluid contamination. Clear fluid is ALWAYS best.

I included the reference material, enjoy!
DB

[paulv]

DB,

My statement was based on AP42.00-P-4821T (Step 12), and AH42.10-P-0002-01T. Please check those out and provide comment. Thanks...

Regards,
Paul...

[kenbenz]

Does any one have copy of "AR42.10-P-0010T" document explaining bleeding procedure?

[jpuzas]

It is about 2 posts up. Bleed Brake System.pdf as an attachment

[starlike]

db...thanks so much, that is great info !!

[benz100]

I agree about the Speedi-Bleed brake bleeder tool, just used a friends and loved it.
It was the easiest and fastest way I have ever bled my Benz, plus the brakes had clean fluid throughout.

I went and purchased the Euro kit from

Brake Bleeding Made Easier With SpeediBleed Brake Bleeding Tool

[cagalbraith]

I had mine done at the dealership. Cost me $79.00 and they replaced that transmission seal that has caused people to lose their fluid and damage the transmission at the same time...

[Mark Cummins]

It CAN Be done Without the Star Diag As I have done it on the Wifes W211 When I Installed AMG E55 Brakes to it