95 e320 will not start after head gasket replacement. - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

JBS · #1 08-21-2007, 04:01 AM

Each cylinder was at TDC when I performed the test. 0 degrees for 1 & 6, 120, and 240 degrees.........
Again, the engine is timed correctly and I can visually determine by looking at the camshaft for the tested cylinder that the lobes of the camshaft are not pushing down on the valves.

I did not notice any issue with the valves as I did not perform a pressure test while removing the head. Would it not be somewhat pointless to perform a leak down test on a head when you know the intake gasket is blown and venting through the cooling system? Also, the leaks are small enough that you cannot see any problem with the valves visually.

I should have performed the leak down test during the rebuild and I would have detected the problem before getting it back together. I did manage to go from a completly assembled engine to having the head off again in 1.25 hours!

I did not ask the shop to pressure test the head. I talked to the owner of the shop today and he asked why it had not been more thoroughly inspected? He was disappointed that his helper that decked the head did not suggest it.

jhodg5ck · #2 08-21-2007, 10:47 AM

I'm just surprised you didn't have a valve job done while the head was off..Especially @ that high a mileage.

Does this shop specialize in Mercedes machining? If not I'd find someplace else to have it done.

Jonathan

brewtoo · #3 08-21-2007, 11:09 AM

The leaks are so small you cannot see any problem when looking at the valves?

I don't think that would keep the engine from starting.

mpolli · #4 08-21-2007, 03:47 PM

That is what I am thinking. Even though they are not perfect I don't think they would result in very low pressure readings (you never did say how low) and I don't think that is the cause of no start. IMHO.

Mike