I'd like to thank everyone for their responses to my initial inquiry! And appreciate amy further comments.

I'll do MOST of my own repairs! My only concerns would (naturally) be the BIG TICKET (trans & engine) design failures!
I've done several Head Gaskets, but NOT on this model! Will study in depth the Svc/Gde & Forum(s) for tips...........

Have any of you W140 guys crossed over from the W126 & how would you compare for endurance & reliability?