How to Tune a 1988 Mercedes 230E

Oil and Oil Filter
1. Jack the front end of the 230E off the ground to access the oil pan and oil filter. Remove the plastic covers that protect the undercarriage.
2. Place the oil recycling container below the oil pan and remove the stopper. Let all of the motor oil drain from the engine before replacing the stopper. Dispose of the oil in a proper manner once it has collected into the container.
3. Turn the oil filter counter-clockwise and remove it slowly. Pull the filter cartridge and O-rings holding the cartridge and set them aside for later use.
4. Fill the new oil filter partially full with motor oil and turn it clockwise into position with your hand.
5. Remove the oil cap in the engine compartment and add oil. Check the oil dipstick for content and volume of the new oil. Add more if necessary. Replace the cap when finished.
Performance Air Filter
6. Unscrew the bolts that hold the air filter casing together and remove the top of the casing. A wire-mesh, aluminum air filter will increase performance in the 1988 230E. Remove and clean this reusable filter periodically for correct maintenance.
7. Remove the old air filter slowly to minimize debris spilling into the intake system.
8. Clean the carburetor and intake system area thoroughly to keep a properly running engine.
9. Align the new air filter and lower into place.
10. Leave the air filter housing;s top off the new filter for both a streamlined look and for better performance results.
Spark Plugs and Wires
11. Use the wire puller and tug the boot of each wire from its connection with the spark plug. Perform spark plug inspection and maintenance individually to avoid a mis-connection.
12. Inspect each spark plug and wire set for any signs of overheating, wetness, build-up or corrosion. New spark plugs are cheap and much more beneficial to the 230E's running capabilities than trying to repair old plugs.
13. Remove spark plugs that show obvious signs of physical damage or wear. Turn a wrench counter-clockwise on the plug to remove it. Pull the wires at the base to remove the plug completely.
14. Install new spark plugs and wires by hand and tighten them accordingly.
15. Connect the corresponding wire leads to the spark plugs. Repeat steps 2 through 5 on each plug until finished.