Going To Work in my 280SE 4.5

[gruder18]

I've turned in my leased G37, and I'm driving my 1972 280SE 4.5 for the 3rd day in a row. Everything is about as expected. But, here's what I've noticed. Comments are much appreciated.

1. When cold, the engine sometimes feels like it will die at idle at a stoplight. I've talked to Enrique at MR. MB Motors in Tarzana, and he's adjusted the timing. It's never really died at idle, but maybe's it's because I press on the gas when I feel like it'll happen. I guess I'm not too worried about this per se. At temp 175, everything seems to smooth out.

2. Noises have started to come out or more than likely I've started to notice them. The noise that started to happen is this creaking sound when pulling from start. It comes from the front. Could it be the motor mounts? The noise doesn't happen when going over bumps. The car was fairly warmed up by then. I know I should probably have the suspension checked and/or redone, but Enrique has not said or suggested anything. I feel like if it ain't broken. . . Has anyone had Enrique do the suspension?

I guess I'll update as I continue to drive my car. Hopefully, I can reliably drive it for a while as I like saving money.

[JMela]

Guessing #2 is your subframe mounts. Replace them if they haven't been touched in awhile.

Good diy writeup:

http://www.peachparts.com/Wikka/W108Subframe

[gruder18]

Thanks. I will check for this. Again, this noise only occurs when I pull away from a stop. It doesn't seem to happen when I go over bumps.

[bwostosh]

Check the rear axle mount centered in the trunk
Check motor mounts while doing subframe mounts

[gruder18]

today was the first day it was bright and sunny since starting to drive my 72 280se 4.5. i took it out on the 405 freeway in morning traffic - - after it had warmed up to near 175. nothing out of the ordinary, and it was operating well. no sudden drops in pressure or trying to find idle.

the creaking noise i realized has something to do with the brakes. after about 30 minutes of stop and go traffic, the brakes creak as i release them and press the gas. not too worried about this, but i will have it checked out the next time i see enrique.

i'm getting about 10mpg, which is something i expected.

contemplating getting a prius or a jetta diesel. that would cut gas expenses by 5.

[rkroel]

Mine is a dream to drive to work (I have a 35 mile, mostly freeway, commute). I just wish the transmission had another, lower gear. Above about 65 or 70 I sometimes think I can see the fuel gauge moving.

[JiveTurkey]

If you need a reliable car thats good on gas I'll sell you my '08 VW Rabbit. It runs on 87 and is fantastic for road trips. PM me for info.

PS: I drove my 250CE for almost six months with no failures before I took her apart for restoration.

[bwostosh]

You can drive it down the 405 to San Diego and I can show you how to get that 16-18 MPG and other stuff It take a day to do the assessment. PM me