230SL Power Steering Pump Belt

[rwmastel]

Hi.  My Spart Parts List shows my power steering belt is part number 007753 012500.  Does anyone know the dimensions in millimeters (9.5 x 800, for example) so I can just go to the corner auto parts store and get one quickly, instead of waiting on shipping?

Thanks!

[waqas]

I think it's 13mm x 750mm.  Make sure the parts store gives you an actual metric belt. Also, sometimes they only have 12.5mm width belts.

I believe the alternator belt is 10mm x 935mm.

[rwmastel]

Wow, fast answer!!  I have a ContiTech brand 13 x 750 (made in Germany) and I can not get it installed.

[waqas]

I've had the same installation problem on mine (with the pump adjusted all the way towards the engine). The next size belt I had handy was a 13mm x 784mm, but there was not enough adjustement range to tighten it (too loose).

So, I simply started the belt around half the pump pulley, and turned the engine by hand to get the belt fully installed. I use the same technique for removal (with all pump bolts loosened of course).

I think the belt is thick enough (and the pump adjustment range is narrow enough) to make this procedure necessary.

[rwmastel]

OK, fine.  I've never turned my engine by hand, what does it requrie?  I know you put a large socket on the end of the crank pully, right??  Is there room to do that w/o taking the radiator or other parts off?  Which way do I turn it, clock wise?

Many thanks

[rwmastel]

OK, I took my own normal advice and performed a search.  I found this in a part of the Tech Manual on timing and the distributor.

"As far as turning the engine, you can sneak a 27mm socket between the radiator and the front engine pulley and onto the front crankshaft bolt. A 1/2" drive rachet handle and a short extesion will allow you to turn the engine by hand. If you remove all the spark plugs this will allow the engine to turn easily. Always turn in the correct rotation direction. (clockwise as you stand in front of the car looking rearward!!) Do not forget to remove the socket and ratchet handle when finished!"

[waqas]

I've always used a 22mm socket (on both 230sl and 250se)... is the technical manual information wrong or do I have the wrong nut on both engines ??

Rodd, please let me know what you find on your engine.

[waqas]

BTW, you don't really need to remove the plugs, although it becomes a little easier if you do.

[graphic66]

You can also get the belt in position and just bump the starter. Just unhook the coil wire so it doesn't start. Or just start it right up and let it roll right on if you feel confident. Then just tighten things up.

[rwmastel]

Waqas,
The 27mm socket is what fits my car.  I couldn't use it because I didn't have the proper extension; one that was long enough to reach down inside the pulley and short enough to fit in past the radiator.

Graphic66 (David),
The bumping of the starter did the trick!  Very nice tip, thanks.

Now on to torque the head bolts and adjust the valves.  I've done that before, so hopefully no cries for help on that!

Thanks,

[glennard]

Rodd, You're going to need 'Glenn's HandyDandy valve spring compresser'.  That's if any of the ball studs are tight.  It lets you take the rocker arm out and turn the stud with a socket-no round off!