Thanks, Bill, Ghost and 180. I am hoping to hit the salvage yard in the very near future. I have already ordered the short bolts from a link on this site. (thank you). The salvage yard that has a spare for a 2004 CLK is over 50 miles away. I do want to bring the car with me to test fit the spare, I just hope that I don't get a flat on the way!!!
Thanks again for the help, I will report back my success or lack there of.