#14 Head is off, NO visible cracks - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

300sdlguy · #1 12-19-2004, 02:36 PM

Well, I am keeping my fingers, eyes & toes crossed that my #14 head has survived unscathed, and hopefully only needs to be resurfaced, and put back on. I am of course needing to get the gasket sets. Can anyone tell me the best place to get the BEST gasket sets and if there is anything else I should do at this point while the head is off etc? Thanks

#2 12-19-2004, 02:52 PM

Since you have it off, wouldn't it be better to find a used #17 head and put in? Chances of #14 cracking at a later date may happen.

Hal Scripka · #3 12-19-2004, 08:53 PM

With the head off there are plenty of opportunities to replace parts depending on your budget. I am assuming your valves are OK and there is no stretch in the timing chain. So here are some other things to consider:

1. New lifters (not too expensive. About $18 each, easy to install.
2. New Precambers (expensive, $65 each. Requires special tools)
3. New Timing chain upper rail. (Cheap. Fairly easy to install)
4. New Timing chain tensioner. (Modified by MB at some time ago. Costs about $60, easy to install)
5. New valves guides (not too expensive. If your machining the head, might as well have these replaced)

You can get the head gasket kit here off Fastlane. It has everything you need except for new exhaust manifold nuts. Get those from Fastlane also. You will need 12.

Good luck.

kip Foss · #4 12-19-2004, 09:24 PM

Chris,

Hal has you headed for a classic MAW (might as well) situation. I don't doubt that if you head is cracked from age and not stupidity that you may well need all that he has suggested, but be careful about saying that ",... as long as I am here I might as well do this and that". MAW on a Ford or Chevy won't actually kill you but MAW on a MB will rip both your guts and wallet into shreds.

I got MAW'ed on a Chevy Diesel to the tune of $1,500 and that was 10 years ago. I could have gotten in and out for $300. I mean, you've got the head off and the pistons are right there how hard would it be to drop the pan and do a ring job. Car sure would run better. It would be a lot cheaper just to stuff the cylinders full of $20 bills and put the head back on.

Good luck

300sdlguy · #5 12-20-2004, 01:48 AM

Where does one find a good #17 head and how much?

The SDL overheated while not in my possession, so I didn't know how long my nephew drove it, but assumed the worst, thankfully, it appears it was not driven to the point of cracking the head. That being said, I will probably do at least some of the things mentioned by Hal, especially if there are any "updated" items. Will have to check on the special tools and my mechanic doesnt have them.

I am very careful about my vehicle operating temps. I am not really wanting to put another $3000 into the car.

#6 12-20-2004, 02:17 AM

Well Metric Motors out of Canoga Park,California is a great place for heads, maybe pricey though. You'd just have to call and check it out. They have re-manufactured heads. I'm sure there are others as well. Good Luck

300sdlguy · #7 12-20-2004, 12:21 PM

There were cracks found on the #5 & #6 cyls on the head. Not the news I needed 4 days before Christmas. Guess its time to decide what to do.

Habanero · #8 12-20-2004, 01:05 PM

Sorry to hear of your bad luck. Those of us who have been there surely know what you are going through.