The replacement wiring harnesses seem to be bulletproof. I have a 1994 104 motor that has had two head gaskets - one at 35k and another at 70k. But only the 70k got the latest gasket and it has held up. I think the answer on the head gasket is that the new gasket is much improved - but it is still a long engine with two different metals sort of fighting with each other. I'd have no problem buying the car. I've come to believe that a 104 motor with these two problems out of the way is a very good motor - valves, timing chain, etc. and of course a bottom end that is nearly indestructible.