Well, I just installed the "Greens" in our SLK 280 in less time than it took to read this thread. And I'm NOT a mechanic -- oh no! I'm the only guy I know who ever fouled up an oil change!
In any event, here's a tip or two. In removing the front plastic cover, unsnap it from the outboard connection points with the rear plastic cover by bending the front cover up gently at the rear outer edges. Then just lift up. The hoses disconnect by just pulling off. No clamps. Then, remove the clip that holds the back of the rear plastic cover on, and just pull the rear cover upward.
After you've removed the rear cover (which has the air boxes underneath) place this cover upside down on a towel or blanket to avoid scratching. After unscrewing the air box screws to get to the filter, spray a bit of WD 40 on the threads. They go back in much easier.
When it's time to snap the rear cover back on, locate those round rubber bits that the clips attach to, and rub a bit of paste wax on them. The back cover will snap back on much easier that way. Just push the hoses back on. Clip the two middle clips of the front cover on, then snap the outboard clips. Then you are done.
My car has less than 2K on the odo, and already the air boxes were dirty. They are going to need cleaning every few months, I fear.
Thanks to all for the advice. Haven't driven enough to get the ECU reset, but I can tell that the engine is quieter. |