Hi All,

I am new here, but have a question (or two) for those that are more knowledgeable than my self.

My father just gave me his old 190E 2.6 with approx. 135K on it. The car drives great now after a quick voltage regulator replacement. The body is straight and the interior still smells new!, Paint would make it look new.

I've been searching this web site and am duly impressed!, I think I have read 1/3 of the posts pertaining to a 190E 2.6.

My car (from what I can see and hear) will need, a timing chain tensioner, timing chain cover gasket, cam "O" ring, dist seal, fluid and filter changes, a battery (preventive maint. (3 yrs old)), possibly some cam followers, valve cover gasket, and a right ball joint (mild secondary clunk once and awhile). I'll flush and change the oil before doing the timing chain tensioner and cam followers.

The springs and shocks (bilsteins) are about 2 years old, and the exhaust and o2 sensor is about 6 months old. The only things wrong now are the antenna does not work and the SRS light is on all the time.

I know this is a 15 year old car and on-going maintenance will be required. I would like to know if my budget of $150-200 (not including fuel, oil, reg and insurance) per month is realistic, with me doing most of the work?

I make a good income but living in LA cost a bunch, as does alimony, child support and my older daughter's tuition.

This car was my Dad's pride and joy (he bought a new Benz), I want to keep it up, but would like to know if I'm in the ball park. I may put 4K miles a year on it, I have a couple of other cars. Does it seem worth keeping? (bear in mind, I'm not so concerned with eventual resale value, as much as a realistic maintenance budget)

Thanks for your thoughts,
David

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1993 190E 2.6 135k
1989 Ford Thunderbird SC 5 Spd 79K