Here I share some advice since it’s not exactly same as on the C-class.
Clarification: do not disconnect the AC-lines. I mean only the 3x E-torx bolts that hold the AC.
The famous bolt holding the tensioner is E14 E-torx.
For some reason the hole on the new SKF tensioner was not same same depth.
So I replaced the bolt with a M10x30 mm bolt instead.
Also another important note. If you do decide to disconnect the steering column from the rack.
DO NOT disconnect the lower bolt at the “U-joint”. Since the joint is connected with a spline axle you will probably not get it back in same position. If you do need to slide down the rack even more like I did than the upper bolt connecting the steering column is easier to disconnect and reconnect.
Either way I’d still probably recommend doing it from the top. Even though I’ve never done but it could be a good since you also get a good look at the PCV-hoses under the compressor.
Let me know in the comments how you guys tackle this and any other discussions about W211 maintenance. #w211 #m271 #mecedes #benz #dyi