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Dodge Sprinter

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    kenbakerkenbaker Member Posts: 239
    Kurt,
    I can spout out many of the same owners manual intervals that you mention. I have read the supplied materials diligently and filled out my maintenance log religously... Still I have found that good advice is always welcome!

    What I have found through immersion in these forums is that the transmission should be serviced a bit more often than DC or MB recommends. This is of great timing to our forum, as I talked Saturday night to the president of the local Mercedes-Benz Club of America (also a Mercedes-Benz Specialist including sales/parts/service and Harley-Davidson parts/accessories/service/enthusiast/mechanic).

    In his opinion, the service interval for the automatic in the Sprinter should be about 40K miles (that is, normal service on any large automatic like a TH350, TH-400, or C4/C6). His friends at the transmission shop in Edmond Oklahoma (I've seen several items on ebay that they have for sale) have a lot of experience with them, and they don't recommend the long intervals (or the single 80K mi. interval).

    At $2,500 for a rebuild, they stand to make money if they let you go with the long intervals, but they don't recommend them (how quaint, honest advice that could save you money and keep them from making money). I will get more details soon, as I get back in touch with the Mercedes-Benz chapter president (an old business acquaintance/friend) and I will post his wisdom.

    At any rate, we have seen that some of the vibration/noise related to speed changes and near-shift-point shudder can be fixed with fresh in-spec trans fluid on many peoples Sprinters (see the internet forums available, especially on Yahoo Groups!). Yes, it takes very good fully synthetic trans fluid and this could be expensive, but WAY cheaper than a new/rebuilt Trans.

    From our conversation with my friend, it sounds like they may recommend a trans cooler, but I am not as sold on that idea (I don't tow, I don't idle in hot weather traffic). But I do run two A/C units in the hottest weather here (around 105 F. in Oklahoma/Texas). Climbing the big hill between OKC and D/FW in the hottest part of summer pushes the engine/coolant temp. up to about 195/200 (fully loaded 6 people and luggage, top gear, 75MPH). After the climb, it also falls off very quickly back to 185 F.

    I would really love to know more people with high-mileage Sprinters with varying levels of service and know just what problems they have experienced. That is what I think this, and other, forums can/should become. If you have high-mileage experiences, please chime in!

    Thanks,
    KenB :shades: :confuse:
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    kurt6kurt6 Member Posts: 22
    Mr.KenB
    I very much like my LWB Sprinter specially the engine (24MPG)and transmission performance.I baby my truck like
    only full 100% synthetic oil and filter change every 5K miles etc.
    However after 7 warranty trips to the dealer at only 45K miles I'm very disappointed in Mercedes.

    1. 3 engine oil leaks.
    2. 2 transmission oil leaks.
    3. one Mercedes recall.
    4. replaced EGR valve including tube going to EGR and intake
    air temp sensor.
    5. replaced valve mixing chamber including hose.
    6. replaced temp sensor again.
    7. and on and on.

    Without warranty cost for labor and parts approximately $7000

    <<<<At $2,500 for a rebuild, they stand to make money if they let you go with the long intervals, but they don't recommend them (how quaint, honest advice that could save you money and keep them from making money).>>>>

    If not all the time Mercedes direction is always to the dealer and there product and parts,I do not believe at
    100 000K warranty the company like to see your blown up
    you transmission,naturally a lot depend on load and how hard you drive your truck.

    >>>

    You can not use any good quality synthetic transmission fluid in your Sprinter at any time,only specially designed fluid from Mercedes at $22 for one quart.Full transmission oil and filter change at FL $440 at Dodge $325.
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    kurt6kurt6 Member Posts: 22
    Mr.KenB
    I very much like my LWB Sprinter specially the engine (24MPG)and transmission performance.I baby my truck like
    only full 100% synthetic oil and filter change every 5K miles etc.
    However after 7 warranty trips to the dealer at only 45K miles I'm very disappointed in Mercedes.

    1. 3 engine oil leaks.
    2. 2 transmission oil leaks.
    3. one Mercedes recall.
    4. replaced EGR valve including tube going to EGR and intake
    air temp sensor.
    5. replaced valve mixing chamber including hose.
    6. replaced temp sensor again.
    7. and on and on.

    Without warranty cost for labor and parts approximately $7000

    <<<<At $2,500 for a rebuild, they stand to make money if they let you go with the long intervals, but they don't recommend them (how quaint, honest advice that could save you money and keep them from making money).>>>>

    If not all the time Mercedes direction is always to the dealer and there product and parts,I do not believe at
    100 000K warranty the company like to see your blown up
    you transmission,naturally a lot depend on load and how hard you drive your truck.

    >>>

    You can not use any good quality synthetic transmission fluid in your Sprinter at any time,only specially designed fluid from Mercedes at $22 for one quart.Full transmission oil and filter change at FL $440 at Dodge $325.
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    kenbakerkenbaker Member Posts: 239
    Kurt,
    the Mercedes Spec (fully synthetic) ATF is not only from Mercedes, and is not always $22/qt (US $ that is). As MOPAR (DC parts brand) it is about $17 where I have seen the price. Berry Dodge sometimes has specials on it, so I presume that other Dodge dealers might as well. I think it is Berry Dodge that I have seen offer some products for the Sprinter on ebay.

    I have already found in the internet, so you can find it too... the ATF is a Shell Oil Co. product. Other fully synthetic ATF is also commonly in spec for the Mercedes warranty and performance (always expensive compared to Mercon or Dexron, but not Mercedes expensive). Always look for the MB spec codes on ALL fluids (oil, ATF, radiator, differential lube, brake fluid, etc.)

    Others have had good luck with the Shell product, not for non-speced ATF. AMSOIL fully synthetic ATF is also in spec and completely gauranteed, looking for a user of this product, please chime in if you are one.

    You might note that, as ALTERED3 has mentioned, the MOBIL-1 0/W40 fully synthetic (carrying the correct MB spec code) is actually no longer rated for CI-4+, so it may not be in spec at this time. Other MOBIL-1 fully synthetic is sometimes in spec for both the MB codes and the CI-4+ rating.

    AMSOIL motor oil is fully rated for all of the above, and is again guaranteed to about 20,000 mile oil change intervals (otherwise time limited, see their literature).

    No, I am not an AMSOIL rep, but I use these referrences to show that at least one of the oil/ATF vendors out there will stand behind the product and meet the specs of the MB and DC companies.

    What year is your Sprinter (pre 2004's had too many EGR problems for sure)? Wagon, Cargo, Motorhome, cab/chassis?

    What Recall did you have (I had mine in for the transmission "O" rings problem prior to the rumored recall)?

    I still have an outstanding service call to get the lumbar supports repaired (one bad bulb, the other might be the bladder). Probably will just let this go, I don't use them ever and I don't want the covers ripped off and put back on.

    Thanks,
    KenB :confuse:
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    altered3altered3 Member Posts: 59
    Hello Kurt
    Just picked up on the thread re Mobil oil,M-1 0/w40 I'm not at the office so I can't check on the Mobil paperwork, However I thought I may have said Extra H/D there were two off one for a standard particle filter rated for 2007 US specifications and one for Bleutec which has been stalled at your end of the pond, long story so I wont go into it, there is a difference as it met the standards in both US and Europe for emission standards, it's a very hard oil to source in Australia as I can only purchase this from the Distributor direct it's not stocked at service outlets or any where else for that matter
    Updating The Sprinter involved has done 33 Thousand Kilometers with the Original oil the lubricity has held under University testing testing, with very little carbon waste at the end of exhaust pipe the carbon waste is dry not oily fells like graphite in texture. the van still returns an average of 26+ miles to the gallon and has never broken down or given any troubles so I have no problems , yes I use and upper cylinder ignition improver Red-Line RL-2
    I am fully aware of amsoils site and admit its the most informative site on the net has great products but no oil filters for the Sprinters pity as the micron rating is far lower than a standard Mercedes Filter rated at 30 micron which allows for more waste particularization's to enter the oil supply, which is why I have a dual electric in line twin oil filter system with the particle exhaust system installed last year on My 2005 Sprinter :blush:
    Coincidentally the manual of Mercedes-Benz European version and Australian states oil changes between 20 to 30 thousand kilometers depending on use and on and off road conditions. I guess I have no Sprinter woes So its more of a good news Story, than a sorry tale. But them's the breaks
    Cheers From Altered 3 along with Altered State and Altered Sprinter, depending on which site I'm looking at
    PS If any one needs more information drop into this forum and have a look as a guest no flare on Edmund's site intended but any information that's worth looking at is worth chasing it solves many questions including the famous RSN Rumble.
    http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/index.php
    Cheers
    Sprinter-Forum.com
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    altered3altered3 Member Posts: 59
    Sorry meant KB not Kurt
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    kenbakerkenbaker Member Posts: 239
    so I've joined Sprinter-Forum...
    much different world to navigate, still trying to find RSN talk.
    thanks,
    KenB
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    kenbakerkenbaker Member Posts: 239
    genuine MB/DC ATF for the Sprinter/Crossfire ($9.50/bottle US dollars)

    http://www.europarts-sd.com/get-pdf.php?f=sprinter.pdf

    KenB :shades:
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    kurt6kurt6 Member Posts: 22
    Please post price and website or other information regarding your aftermarket oil-filter-system.
    Tanks Kurt.
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    altered3altered3 Member Posts: 59
    KenB
    The section I think your looking for falls under the Saddle Bearing Rumber strip! 'as there are two sections' that have references to the issue.
    Mercedes has rectified this on all LWB base units and up to the super long units, now a two piece tail shaft running on bearings and saddles, to prevent the vibrations etc/
    Much of it was due to the harmonic balancer in the section that ran rear or dual air-con.. key ways slipped , replaced with a modified two way key lock , this was an automatic upgrade with sprinters but not a recall.
    Again fuel related issues with quality Diesel, did effect many other issues as well but we all know this now, if it wasn't transmissions! it was turbo leaks, fuel rails not delivering the fuel at required temp, which resulted in burnt valves , piston crowns o ring failures, fuel pump failure sensors in trans, this list goes on at least with four forums to choose from now this helps everyone as we all learn from it, even those who thought they had the answer! continues to learn from others experience and input :)
    Thanks
    Altered.
    http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=749
    Saddle Bearings for Rumber Strip Noise - Sprinter-Forum.com

    http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=806
    Fuel Rail alert for type 647 engines - Sprinter-Forum.com
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    altered3altered3 Member Posts: 59
    Kurt
    The dual oil filter system I was referring to, goes way back in this forum to last year.
    It was a special custom made unit in-line using a standard 30 micron filter of Mercedes and a custom 15 micron filter made by Ryco the oil was changed after the 500 mile break in period and the Mobil one Devlac H.D extra 10/40 Synthetic oil was added the vehicle a MWB based vehicle was purchased in May 2005 From Mercedes in Austria, exported to Australia this vehicle has done moderate millage 33 thousand K'S plus and still runs the same oil, yes it gets topped up as it uses oil at the normal rate, but the vehicle has never failed it is tested by both the DOT and the University of Tasmania and as stated previously still holds lubricity values not warranting an oil change,
    Added upper cylinder lubricants and transmission lubricants have been used also out side of Mercedes specifications , Mercedes oils are OK but better can be found, To clarify the mystery of KB not being able to source the oil I have used, is because it was from DC Chrysler for Mercedes section,Mercedes U.S uses this on the V6 Diesel that runs Blutec you do have a few in the states,this oil was not put into the Dodge section [Sprinters] of oils, because it was a new oil developed for the 2007 Model that you now have.
    adding to the confusion this is an advanced oil meant for European specifications, where the Diesel fuels run B-10 using the new particle emission exhaust, which was also installed on the 2005 Sprinter, and there was one also for the Blutec that rated at 299.9 p/m, In the US ULSD is only just becoming available it is still not available in all destinations through out the USA as the US uses less than 3 percent diesel to Gasoline, and its still catching up with Europe and Australasia.
    I hope that helps you Kurt.
    Please find a few links you asked for, take the time to read them look at other comments from other folk as well as the other three forums that deal with Sprinters, you will find a common cause and a common solution to your problems of Sprinters woes.
    Because they are a good vehicle, once you understand them, if you can learn from this, then you have the knowledge to argue a point with service reps,and it stops them dead in their tracks you get respect as a result.
    Thanks
    Altetred
    http://www.redlineoil.com/products_fueladditives.asp?subCategoryID=14&productID=- 32
    Red Line Oil: Fuel Additives
    http://www.redlineoil.com/products_gearlubricants.asp
    Red Line Oil: Gear Lubricants
    http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=550
    Anyone running alternative ATF fluid? Amsoil or other - Sprinter-Forum.com
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    kenbakerkenbaker Member Posts: 239
    ULSD now in pumps at Flying-J travel plazas OKC, Oklahoma...

    KenB :shades:
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    kentdogkentdog Member Posts: 4
    Does anybody know how to get into side door lower track? There is a plastic step cover that acts as a roller guide for the lower sliding door mount. I had a toolbox full of sockets open up and roll around in the back. Most of the sockets found there way into this track assembly. I can't get them out without pulling it apart and I can't figure out how it comes apart. Any help would be appreciated.

    BTW: Take a look in yours, you might be surprised what is down there. I used a magnet to pull out the smaller sockets, some belonged to the previous owner as they weren't my brand. In fact, I found several items that didn't belong. My door still works fine, but I think someday (probably when its -10F) the door will jamb and either not fully open or not fully close.

    Thanks in advance,
    Kentdog
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    kentdogkentdog Member Posts: 4
    Does anybody know how to get into side door lower track? There is a plastic step cover that acts as a roller guide for the lower sliding door mount. I had a toolbox full of sockets open up and roll around in the back. Most of the sockets found there way into this track assembly. I can't get them out without pulling it apart and I can't figure out how it comes apart. Any help would be appreciated.

    BTW: Take a look in yours, you might be surprised what is down there. I used a magnet to pull out the smaller sockets, some belonged to the previous owner as they weren't my brand. In fact, I found several items that didn't belong. My door still works fine, but I think someday (probably when its -10F) the door will jamb and either not fully open or not fully close.

    Thanks in advance,
    Kentdog :)
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    altered3altered3 Member Posts: 59
    the section of the door you are referring to is called the lost section all previous owners included, its a mystery Pandora box what can come out of the little railway track.
    What goes in has to come out,
    The width towards the rear of the van is actually smaller in height, so move to the front of the B pillar and you;ll find with little fingers stretching and pulling away all of the lost items will come out, sooner or latter.
    Clean the roller tracks and re lube, the stuff don't last that long and don't use sprays they tend to stick the dirt and grit that eventually finds its way down under. :shades:
    Altered Sprinter
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    gdog6gdog6 Member Posts: 17
    I have a ?
    how does the 2.7L engine do it seems too small to pull the van :confuse:
    is acceleration any good
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    sprintermansprinterman Member Posts: 14
    The 2.7 L engine is an incredible little power house.I used to have a Ford E350 cube van with a 7.3 Deisel.I now carry the same weight,approx.2500 lbs/1100 KG and I find my Sprinter has more power than my Ford used to have.Mind you I did not have
    a turbo in the Ford but regardless,the Sprinter responds better on hill climbs etc.
    The Sprinter is not made for racing,but if you are looking for
    economy to work for you with enough power to do the job,I would highly recommend it.I presently have 21,000 miles on it with no trouble whatsoever,averaging 25 MPG cruising at 65
    miles per hour.
    Regards from Guy in Canada
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    altered3altered3 Member Posts: 59
    It's true It's called power to the Sprinter! and Sprinter owners love them, for the huge pulling power of the Sprinters engine capacity, at the low RPM range.
    G'day Guy I see your getting the miles up on your van too :) :P
    Richard
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    sprintermansprinterman Member Posts: 14
    Hey Richard ,How are you ? Haven't heard from you for while.
    Which Sprinter are you driving ,I heard that you sold your 07.
    Yes ,I am enjoying the ride. So far,a great machine. Still am amazed at the fact that I don't have to stop that often to refill the fuel. Drop me a line and let me know what you are
    doing these days. Take care.
    Regards
    Guy
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    altered3altered3 Member Posts: 59
    Hi Guy
    Yep sold the ultra long overhang Sprinter as soon as it landed the price to too good to say no to.
    But still have the trusty 05 313 and the 518 CDI MWB unit no problem ever with either never.
    You'll find me on this link as always
    http://www.sprinter-source.com/forum/index.php
    Sprinter-Forum.com
    Have a great day Richard
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    kendall69kendall69 Member Posts: 13
    Anyone getting any deals on the 07 Sprinters. Dealer quoted me 38K for a standard equipped 144" high roof.
    What has been some of your pricing so far??
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    kendall69kendall69 Member Posts: 13
    Looks like I'm a member of the club. I just brought home a 144 tall cab, passenger white.

    Drove it 80 miles home, and like you all have experienced it's ownderful piece of equipent.
    The pickup and power of the diesel is amazing.

    Looks like I have to install an intercom to talk to anyone in the far back seat:)
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    kenbakerkenbaker Member Posts: 239
    You could go to Japan and take "crowing" lessons...

    I think that I saw it on "Real People" many years ago... they were teaching the normally quiet Japanese business people how to speak up and yell when needed... very useful when you have to get yourself heard in the back of the VOX (Van/bOX, what my kids call the Sprinter). ;)

    Welcome to the club... we may be wishing we had the V-6 diesel like you probably got. Please let us know where your mileage falls... 20 MPG or higher I hope.

    Thanks,
    KenB :shades:
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    pdacpdac Member Posts: 7
    I am also having a battery discharge problem. I have a 2004 LWB passenger model - purchased July 05 - with all the options available, additional air cond, aux heaters. It has a single battery, 900 CCA, 90 A alternator. This past Dec, the battery started to lose a charge. Had to have several jump starts. While at the dealer for an engine light on (engine ended up being replaced for loss of compression in one cyl), I had them check the battery. Battery was OK and charged, elec system checked OK, too. Since the first incident in Dec, my battery has been replaced, but the problem still continues. One day required three jumps. Every trip back for service results in the same thing, no problem detected with the battery or charging system. I'm on my fith return for this problem. The alternator is charging, but someting in the system is either intermittent or drawing a load while static. Any ideas? I also enjoy this vehicle, it's ideal for our family of five children, but I'm getting tired of taking it in for work and finding on the way home that the problems are still there. Air Conditioning, Fuel tank leak, electrical problems, strange engine noise after new engine installed, side door rattle....., but I still like my Sprinter.
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    kenbakerkenbaker Member Posts: 239
    pdac,
    with lots of options, especially extra heating and Second A/C you are supposed to have an alternator LARGER than 90 AMP... 120, 150, or even 200.

    With the factory 2nd A/C I believe that the Alt. of choice was/is 150 Amps (might be 120amp). The rear a/c in the factory spec version has a very large draw due to the fan that draws air over the condensor on the roof, and a second smaller draw for the fan that pushes air around inside the cabin and over the evaporator coil.

    Other electrical are, by nature, very hard to diagnose long-distance... just ask our friend Tom... he's burned out a lot of headlight bulbs/capsules.

    If you are in a Northern Climate Zone, then I wouldn't expect the rear A/C to be in use in December... when your problem started.

    I would double check the engine to frame grounding straps; any starter cables, especially the main one to make sure they are snug; you may have to find a shop that can put an electrical analyzer on the Sprinter while you drive for a while.

    It is smowhat possible that with the engine swap you got a pulley placed in the wrong place or of the wrong size and the alternator is not running at RPMs sufficient to keep the battery up in all conditions (not likely, but possible).

    Certainly it seems your Alternator is too small with all of the possible accessories, how do you know that it IS a 90Amp model? On your base equipment it may say 90 Amps, but on your Optional Equipment it should ammend that and say a higher value (like on the Cooling Package menu of options added). :sick: :confuse:

    Thanks,
    KenB :shades:
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    pdacpdac Member Posts: 7
    KenB, Thank you for the reply and good explanation. We purchased the Sprinter with the extended warranty, now it seems like it was a good decision. The battery problem started prior to the engine change. I thought that since it was the original battery and the vehicle sat on the lot for a year before we bought it, this attributed to the early battery death. After the engine change, the problem continued. After the third trip to the dealer and three calls for roadside assistance, the dealer changed the battery. After the new battery was installed, it's happened three times in one day - the duration of the drive doesn't matter - long or short trips. It's driven every day. I checked the alt size, yes, you were correct. It's a 150 amp. I live in Georgia, so the AC system runs almost year round. The aux heater does get a work out, too. The last trip to the shop they performed the complete load check on the system. They've decided to replace the alternator this time, believing it's an intermittent problem or trying to please me. I'll let you know how it turns out. I just dropped it of at the shop - trip #6.
    Again, thanks for the reply.
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    kenbakerkenbaker Member Posts: 239
    My 2004 was picked up in Semptember 2005 by me with about 624 miles on it (but was new, never before registered)... So I was worried about the same battery issue (old battery, sitting around)... I was extra concerned when the battery was dead when we looked at the vehicle the second time.

    However it has been 1.5 years more and we have had no battery problems, we even had one more incident of someone leaving lights or radio on and running the battery down too low to start the Sprinter and still no signs yet of battery failure so far... knock on wood-grained formica-like laminate! ;)

    When you run both A/C units, how much does your mileage drop? Mine drops nearly 2 MPG... Front air only does not seem to affect mileage that I can be certain of.

    Hope it works out OK soon. Alternators have been my one trouble spot on GMC Safari/Astro vans that I have owned (2 vans, 5 or 6 alternators over at least a 20 year span). :sick:

    KenB :shades:

    P.S. I forgot to say, when we got the Sprinter they told us that no extended warranties were available, then we mysteriously got one in the mail FOR FREE (already PAID in FULL)... and that was after we had got them down to only $30K (down from retail of $37K+). We have the rear air, but no extra heater
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    mellonheadmellonhead Member Posts: 4
    We bought our Sprinter new in June 2005 and had oil changes
    at 8,000 mi., 18,000 mi., and 28,000, mi. At the last oil change (28K) the service dept. said we should get the fuel
    filter replaced every 10,000 mi., when we change the oil. This costs $100. for part and labor for fuel filter, plus the cost of the oil change, which is $160. It was running fine on the original fuel filter for the first 28,000 mi.
    Now we're ready for another oil change at 38,000 mi. Do you
    experts believe it's necessary to replace the fuel filter every 10,000 mi.?? We live in Michigan and drive in cold winter weather part of the time.
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    kenbakerkenbaker Member Posts: 239
    Both prices are OUT OF LINE with reality...

    10K between fuel filters is just plain HIGHWAY ROBBERY unless you use the worst diesel available (and some of it is not so good where they don't sell much diesel).

    Read your manual, it is either 30K or 60K miles (don't have the info in front of me) unless you get a water warning, or bad behavior related to fuel...

    Certainly you are coming into summer and not as likely to have fuel/filter related problems. Most all of the fuel problems are worst in Winter when cold pushes the fuel towards its cloud point when waxes (parafins) start to congeal and the filter can start to clog (very cold). Water in the fuel is obviously worse as it will react with components of the fuel to form an emulsion.

    Good Premium diesel, bought at a dealer with plenty of turnover in diesel fuel stock is your best bet in keeping fuel quality problems under control. Diesel fuel additives are certainly available and effective when used as directed.

    Wintertime fuel additives can lower the cloud point, increase Cetane (more important in really cold conditions), reduce emulsions due to water, disperse waxy clumping, and improve life of diesel in vehicles that aren't driven as often. Other claims are certainly possible and may be more or less possible depending on the claim and science to back them.

    I would say follow the manual, or replace before Winter comes again, say before the temps fall below 20F in your area. You'll probably have around 50K+/- miles at that time, judging from your history of mileage so far?

    Thanks,
    KenB :shades:
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    mike_mcginnmike_mcginn Member Posts: 6
    No reason to change the fuel filter that often.
    The dealer is just selling and using your fear
    as a basis for the unneeded work.
    Also the price you are paying for a simple
    oil / filter change is about twice what it
    should be. (assuming you are using Mobile 0-40).
    If not then 4 times too much.

    jmho
    /mike/
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    mellonheadmellonhead Member Posts: 4
    Mike:

    Thanks for your prompt response. The Sprinter goes to the dealer tomorrow (5-2) for an oil change, and since I had the fuel filter changed at 28K, I'll pass on it this time (38K). The dealers I use are in Michigan (Grand Rapids and Plainwell). What would be a reasonable interval for the fuel filter change (every other oil change - 20K)? Also, what is a reasonable price for a routine oil change?

    Thanks
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    mellonheadmellonhead Member Posts: 4
    KenB:

    Thanks much for the prompt response. I go to the dealer tomorrow for an oil/filter change (38K), and I'll take a pass on the fuel filter change. There have been no noticable problems and I just had it changed at 28K.

    I like the Sprinter (compared to the 2001 Ford E450 diesal
    cut-away I used to have). However, the cost of routine service is expensive, and I don't have the time,inclination or skill/tools to do it myself.

    Mellonhead
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    surlyoldbillsurlyoldbill Member Posts: 36
    Does anyone have info on a source for GOOD FITTING (not Pacific) sliding windows? Google search isn't turning up much.
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    macjeffmacjeff Member Posts: 2
    We're considering the 2007 144" short roof Sprinter passenger van for a southern climate. I presume the roof-mounted A/C would be required to keep the interior comfortable?
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    kendall69kendall69 Member Posts: 13
    Just took delivery of an 07 144 tall roof with dual air, here in southern Ca. desert.
    It's already been over 100 degrees and the dual air for me is mandatory, not a luxury item.
    With the Dual air I got the 200 amp alternator.
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    surlyoldbillsurlyoldbill Member Posts: 36
    driving from Texas to CA on I-10, I never needed the rear AC except when first entering the van after being parked in the sun. The outside temp was 90-113 the whole way. The front AC worked just fine to keep the cab cool in the passenger 140shc.
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    kendall69kendall69 Member Posts: 13
    http://www.phharval.com/aboutPHHArval/newsCenter/archives/2007/unitedStates/0502- 07A.pdf
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    hawk8hawk8 Member Posts: 31
    www.motionwindows.com
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    surlyoldbillsurlyoldbill Member Posts: 36
    They don't carry a window that fitd the contours and radius of the window cutouts.
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    kyingkying Member Posts: 61
    Hi Folks: Today, Daimler pays $650 million to get rid of Chrysler! In a blink, all Dodge Sprinters became orphans. We have a legal parent who doesn't know us, and we have a biological parent who is not obligated to us. I think we are in trouble!
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    surlyoldbillsurlyoldbill Member Posts: 36
    Whoever bought the company also buys the debt and the obligations. No one's warranty is in jeopardy. "Dodge" will probably continue to sell Sprinters; unless the company that bought Chrysler just sells off all the assets to pay for the purchase and make a little walking-around money. Then look at the bright side; in 20-30 years your Sprinter will be an oddity collectors item, like my Corvair trucks!

    Parts are all from Germany, anyway.
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    pdacpdac Member Posts: 7
    We just got our Sprinter back from the Dodge repair center after almost three weeks. The next few weeks will tell if my problems have been solved. The short story is that it wasn't the terminals, cables or connections. The original mechanic was replaced by the "MASTER" Sprinter mechanic and another highly qualified sprinter mech. They went through a battery and an alternator before finding the cause - all five glow plugs were shorted. This was causing the high demand on the electrical system, ultimately burning out the alternator, and a replacement alternator, the original battery and a replacement. So I now have five new glow plugs, a new battery and a new 150 amp alternator. The parts alone were over $700.00, plus labor (all under warranty) and Dodge paying for a rental car. This Sprinter has been very expensive for Dodge. 1 replacement engine, 2 batteries, 2 alternators, an AC evaporator, engine mount, idler pulley, front rack, 5 glow plugs and 1 month of car rentals. I can also tell you that a minivan doesn't work for a family of 7 for a trip longer than 30 miles.
    Here's my next question - I've also asked the shop on this - isn't there a relay or timer that should cut off the current to the glow plugs after a specified period? What caused all five glow plugs to fail or short out? And what will prevent this from re-occurring? Thanks
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    kyingkying Member Posts: 61
    I like the bright side!
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    2000_valk2000_valk Member Posts: 67
    Kendall69 Says no more orders for 2007. And now that we have been adopted, Are these things related or just a coincidence!

    I test drove an 07 the other day. More power and quieter that the others. However I seemed to know tons more than the salesman. Didn't know what REST or ASSYST was. He told me to order one would take 6 months.??? I guess the best thing to do is wait for the dust to settle with our new Kin and see what happens. You know how the rumor mill is. :shades: Tom
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    kyingkying Member Posts: 61
    Didn't I say our parent doesn't know us? I can't wait until the day when I drive my Sprinter to a Dodge Dealer for warranty service and I am greeted with the question, "What's that?"

    But I still like the bright side ...
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    goodguychicagogoodguychicago Member Posts: 3
    this is what i do and it cost me only 67 dollars .go to ebay someone is selling 10 oil filters for 50 dollars buy diesel engine oil cost $12 each you need 2 and a half each time and go to local machanic he will be glad to change iol for max 32 dollars .$5 oil filter #30 oil $32 labor = $67 .much better than $200 my local dealer is asking
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    pdacpdac Member Posts: 7
    I ran across this site, maybe it will help. They have several sliding windows to choose from.
    http://www.trucknvans.com/Dodge_Sprinter_Van_FreightLiner_Sprinter_Van_Accessori- es_s/1063.htm
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    punter1punter1 Member Posts: 50
    Just got a dealer quote for 2007. No NAV or sunroof available for 2007 Cargo. They have NAV in Europe and passenger USA version has Sunroof. For 40K , I should be able to get these. Also, anybody see the roof fan option?
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    altered3altered3 Member Posts: 59
    NO NAV...NO SUN ROOF OPTION???
    Navigation not offered, is because of no conformity between EU and US GPS configurations. :sick:

    Europe Australia, and US currently in Federal discussions with worldwide conformity for GPS settings as being standardized.. {WHEN Inside of two years, big changes on the way with how imports are to be bought into the states.}
    Sun roof option for rear of van is available, but not front this is a factory fitted option on passenger but appears not to be with the cargo version, unless special order from Germany.
    No more orders taken until Cerberus takes control in the last quarter of the year, expect further delays with action from the EUW, from September onwards.
    The roof fan ventilator is as basic as you can get, plenty of aftermarket Local vents available with rain sensors included, and at one third of the price. [Fantastic vents best option incorporates both fan and sensors for opening and closing]
    Altered Sprinter
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    altered3altered3 Member Posts: 59
    Maximum waiting time for a special order Sprinter from Europe any where world wide is 12 to 14 weeks once deposit is laid down.
    Unless your in the market for a 4x4 Benz is still delivering 2006 Plated models with a two year waiting list
    Any member in a forum, has one advantage over a salesman from a stealer-ship! :lemon: {He's been educated} ;)
    Altered Sprinter
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