Tom,
Thanks for the quick reply! Much appreciated.

I'm decently handy, i've swapped a head gasket on my miata and installed a turbo system so I think I could tackle motor mounts and the flex disc (especially with the service manual, instructions are way better than winging it.) Pics of my miata are here, if interested

http://www.miatapix.net/coppermine/displayimage.php?album=60&pos=3

I've wanted an MB so many times, and this time with it close to home i'm hoping I can get my hands on this 190d. I will definitely have to drive it again just to make sure I can handle (or tolerate) the speed (or lack there of).

What kind of job is the fuel preheater? Is this the coolant tube at the back of the head (are they the same thing?) I'm guessing there is plenty of room to work if I have to swap out the gasket (and tube if need be) please adivse.

I was going to pull the air cleaner to get a better look. I didn't want to start dismantling a car I didn't plan on buying....

I may have the dealer do a compression test if I can find an independant. Maybe I can track down WHunter.

Thanks,
-Mike