Hey, Skinnywater! ML430 throttle tip in.

[JB]

I traded my beloved ML320 ('98, 130,000 miles, needed some expensive replacement parts) for the only vehicle I ever drove that I wanted more than the ML320. . .a '99 ML430 (56K, 100K warranty, Bose/CD, ESP, Sunroof, 5K tow package, one owner who I interviewed). $24K, less $12K for my ML320.<br /><br />I love it. It drives easier with the increased steering boost, rides smoother and corners flatter. Obviously, more torque is a plus. <br /><br />One minor complaint. Maybe you can help. Initial throttle tip-in seems too abrupt. The vehicle leaps unless I am VERY careful.<br /><br />Can this be adjusted/moderated?<br /><br />Thanks, and thanks for all the help you gave me solving the Trans cooling problem with the 320.

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: Hey, Skinnywater! ML430 throttle tip in.

JB, I know nothing about your question, but thought maybe you might want to know this so as to have it checked out.<br /><br />Bulletins for 1999 Mercedes Benz Truck ML 430 (163 Chassis) V8-4266cc 4.3L SOHC (113)<br /><br />Safety Recalls<br /> TSB Number Issue Date TSB Title 1999110005 DEC 99 Recall - Front Seat Belt Inspection <br /><br /> 99V328000 NOV 99 Recall 99V328000: Seat Belt Buckle Defect <br /><br />General Recalls<br /> TSB Number Issue Date TSB Title 1999110002 DEC 99 Campaign - Erroneous Activation of the Anti-theft System <br /><br /> T-SI-00_67 DEC 97 Campaign - Overload Caution Label

 

[JB]

Re: Hey, Skinnywater! ML430 throttle tip in.

Thanks for the heads up, SBN.<br /><br />Because the truck was bought new and serviced at the same dealership I bought it from I was able to review its complete service history. Any outstanding recalls and SBs are performed during periodic PMs. <br /><br />The previous owner was very happy with it, and traded it for a new G500.

 

[LubeDude]

Re: Hey, Skinnywater! ML430 throttle tip in.

I did some research, but was waiting for Skinnywater to reply. I found nothing about a fix, but did find others with the same compaint! I think these are a great looking rig, the only real conplaint I heard other than the throttle was the ride, They complained that it road too stiff. Well, I think an SUV should ride stiff, If it rides like a car, Yuk! Beautiful ride, Congrats to ya!

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: Hey, Skinnywater! ML430 throttle tip in.

Originally posted by JB:<br />The previous owner was very happy with it, and traded it for a new G500.

Well I don't know why JB, them G500's are ugly MHO.<br />The M class looks a lot better to me.<br />Looks like the G class is mocking the Range Rover look.

 

[JB]

Re: Hey, Skinnywater! ML430 throttle tip in.

If styling were important to me I would agree that the G500 is almost as ugly as a Hummer.<br /><br />I am pleased with the ML430 ride. Firm but not harsh. I like trucks that drive and ride like trucks. The ML is quiet and comfortable on long trips. I have found no other vehicle that so perfectly melds the toughness and strength of a truck with the comfort and luxury of an upscale sports sedan.<br /><br />Folks who like the marshmallow ride of a sedan need a Lexus RX330/Toyota Highlander. Really nice, plush and reliable but they needn't expect it to tow more than a ton, because it wont.

 

[Skinnywater]

Re: Hey, Skinnywater! ML430 throttle tip in.

Excellent ride JB! <br /><br />Your complaint would be resolved by lubricating the entire accelorator linkage and pedal assembly.<br />You'll notice that with the engine off and actuating the accelorator pedal by hand it'll feel "notchy."<br />No need to replace the cable or other components, because the new ones will feel the same.<br />While the accelorator hasn't a direct physical link to the throttle. The pedal has a bell crank lever to the cable. The cable goes thru the firewall to the potentiometer.<br />Have someone take the time and dissassemble the pivots, levers and moving components. Lubricate them with a low viscosity grease (vasoline). Force a low viscosity oil (ATF)into the cable housing. This will cure your complaint.<br /><br />FYI, the '99 163 chassis are my favorites. Much improved over the '98 and more utility over the softer '00.<br />Keep in mind f44 still applies. As will some of the other minor annoyances. The 430 has stouter brakes then the 320. The rear are prone to squeel on the 430 until someone applies the anti friction paste to the calipers. Also note that under certain conditions the rear pad without the wear sensor wears first. A modification to the pad and sensor will correct this if yours falls into this condition.<br /><br />As always, don't hesitate to ask for help or info.<br /><br />Das beste oder nicht.

 

[JB]

Re: Hey, Skinnywater! ML430 throttle tip in.

Thanks, Skinnywater. <br /><br />I was confident that you would have a solution.<br /><br />I will keep a close watch on f44. I've just added it to my long drive "preflight" inspection checklist.

 

[jinx]

Re: Hey, Skinnywater! ML430 throttle tip in.

That G500 is a gussied-up Bundswehr vehicle made in the Steyr factory in Austria. It was designed in the '70's and, panache aside, doesn't offer a whole lot for the money.