Quote:
Originally Posted by Stugist
Car in question is a late-model '79 240D auto.
Hard to start when cold, smokes a lot, and coolant disappears out of nowhere. I'm putting my money on a head gasket failure. Wasn't really expecting this, so what should I do? the thought of pulling the head off scares me, and I don't have the proper tools/equipment to pull this job off. Worst of all, it's her daily driver; she needs it.
I have a HF compression tester that I was planning on using on it, because it's so hard (if not impossible) to start the thing up during these cold mornings. However, going through the trouble may just seem like a moot point now considering all other factors.
Try and fix it? Or sell as a parts car?  |
Don't waste time...
Take the car to a repair shop for a cooling system pressure test.
If there is no external leak = 99.9% odds the head gasket is bad.
If you continue driving with a bad head gasket = begging for more damage or catastrophic failure.
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After 34 years, the head gasket is IMO an expected maintenance item.
The DIY requires few special tools.
Untitled Document
If you share your (CITY) location, a local member may be able to help you.
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Home Made Special Tools, This is where members can share how they made special tools
Home Made Special Tools, This is where members can share how they made special tools
Cavitation
Cavitation
1980 240D CRACKED cylinder head + cavitation damage
1980 240D CRACKED cylinder head + cavitation damage
1985 300TD head gasket repair
1985 300TD head gasket repair
240D (616) # of cylinder head bolts? (how many of each length)
240D (616) # of cylinder head bolts?
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If this is a critical vehicle that can't be down for service, I suggest you:
#1. Call me = check your PM for my number. Note: You also have E-mail.
#2. Buy a good used cylinder head
Mercede Benz W123 240D 616 Engine Head 4 Cylinder Diesel Non Turbo 616 016 14 01 | eBay
#3. Take car and spare cylinder head to a repair shop.
#4. Pick up and pay for the completed vehicle in a few days.
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