Man, for this kind of money it's worth the risk, I'd say. You could spend $800 so easily on one repair of any kind, might as well get a running, driving car for that money. The temperature indication may just be the sensor.

Rgds,
Chris W.
ex 95 E300D, 467K

CompIgn: You would have to change your postname to something like: SuckSqueezePopSpit.

a florida car would need to parked "in" the sea to get enough corrossion to break off the spring perches.

Floaty W210 problems are usually the lower control arm front bushings, they are hydraulic and when they are dead the car will act stoned.

I would also not suggest you probe and short the pins on the receiver dryer on this car, they are sensors which report to the HVAC pushbutton unit unlike the old analog items on the W123 and W124 cars.

The A/C quote you got is incomplete if they are not changing the condenser. It is also a good idea to test the evaporator for leaks. They do leak and its quite a pricey job to farm out. Its not too complex, its just lengthy.

I would never presume so much based on such scant information. I've just made note of a known problem that occurs with some regularity on this chassis, seems like something that would only require a very simple inspection to eliminate as a present contributor to a problem or a potential future problem.

evap
 

"Z" Man,

Has already been replaced previously.

Condenser can be flushed (?)

Gonna close this one out
 

After discussion with Wrench @ Beach:

1.compressor kit
2.head gasket set
3.window regulator

exceeds valuation of chassis

not to mention clear coat
or suspension issues

Or obfuscation of situation by owner's Significant Other (?Husband/Keeper?)

She's "Still in Deutschland" and unavailable... [Draw your own Conclusions]

With the problems, I'd offer scrap value ( $ 200 to 300 ). Mechanical parts can be changed so working with a no rust car carries high value.

Why does it need head gasket replaced? If for an oil leak, the front cover between the valve cover and block tends to leak but can be resealed. My 97 C280 with the same motor has a crank seal that needs replaced at some point.

You'd be missing out on a great inline 6 / electronic shift trans combo if you pass on this car. ( or any other car that uses the M104 and 722.6 )

Two Leaks
 

'97 SL320,

Yeah, It's leaking from the front cover as well as the H.G.

And All it's multiple Co-Morbidities are Just Tedious,not Impossible.

BUT , This guy (the Owner's Husband) is up to all kinds of Foolishness
From having the next door neighbors pretend to own the Doppelganger
MB Wagon and the Mini Cooper that the "Shop" says are his(?)
To suggesting that He can sign the Florida Title for his Wife
without a Power of Attorney.
(And all of these Vehicles are registered in differing Florida Counties.)

I have the impression, now, from un-named but close by sources.that she's "Seen the Light" and may soon be un-encumbered by this "Silly Amerikaner".

Too much Soap Opera.
A Little time lets all dust settle.