Need advise from all G-wagen Master and Gurus

[A. Rosich]

I have owned one W123 wagon, several W124s wagons and about two years ago acquired my dream car: an S 500 L (W140).

Now I am toying with the idea of getting into a G-wagen (which I also admire).

Having owned Mercedes-Benzes for over 22 years, I can pinpoint every fault and maintenance issue on W123s, W124s, and now W140s. But, I am not to well informed about the G-wagens.

I am planning to buy a G 320 L (long wheel base wagon) from 1996 to 2001 (I really don't like the new facelifted interiors of the post 2002 models).

I am familiar with ALL issues concerning the M104 engine on W124s (wiring harness, front oil leaks) and the harmonic balancer issue on the M112 V-6s. Are there any other issues involved with these engine regarding specifically to the G-wagen?

What faults or things should I look for on the chassis or electrics before buying? Are the electronic differentials really realiable?

The only issue I have heard of here in Costa Rica is that due to our terrible roads, the steering damper fails constantly, and the there is a slight steering vibration typical on most Gs between 50 to 60 m.p.h, but thats about it. Anything else you can think of?

Thanks in advance!!!