Thanks Barry! Never done this, but it seems so simple: remove distributor, remove manifolds, plugs, wires, get timing chain off, and don't damage cylinder head (and machine/clean aluminum at machine shop; quoted 100 for cleaning, 100 for pressure testing). The only two things that worry me are 1) Making sure I don't mess up timing marks and 2) Why people say just replace engine (vs. replace head gasket). Any comments/pics would be greatly appreciated. Can't find any step by step how to manuals (maybe because it's too easy?) But then why do people suggest to just swap out engine just b/c of blown gasket (100 bucks-ish)?

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Current:
1971 Mercedes Benz 250 (Euro Spec)
1972 Mercedes Benz 250 (US Spec)
Past:
1972 Mercedes Benz 280