I wonder if the heads aren't now compromised in some way, that is if it overheated. Did they skim the heads?

The only real way you're going to know for sure is to pull them and see for yourself. You're always going to wonder otherwise, what with such a job having been done by a 'shop of ill repute'. But jeez what a job. Expensive even if you do it yourself.

That's what's commonly known as a 'conundrum'. Can't just live with it. Can't just pull the heads again to find out what's wrong. You've checked everything else.

70k miles sounds like a sweet car. I love those w140s. Post a photo. Hope you figure this out.

If you haven't done this, open the block drains and see if any gook comes out.

I hope you meant "goop". :eek:

Over Heating, I have kind of the same issue
 

Hi All;
I'm new to this forum, was looking for an answer to a problem that I have with my 1993 400SEL (W140). The engine runs at 180 with no issues. If I drive for 10-12 miles I smell what seems like rubber burning. But the car is still at about 180. If I put my hand along the bottom of the windshield, its very hot. this is from the out side of the car. Any ideas what I should be looking for ?

Are you the same person that had some work done by Herb at Star Motors in Ventura?

But 180C is very high. . . . if you meant "F", then that's very low!!

The car shouldn't run over 90 - 95C if the cooling system is "working" ok. From the temp you see something (or a few somethings) aren't working.

If it's the ORIGINAL rad, it's probably toast! Check out menu #17 for tips here