PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post

jwhughes3 · #3 06-05-2009, 02:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by california

hi guys

just picked up this 97 e320 cheeeeeeaaaaaaaapppppp

but with some issues:

184K miles
blown head gasket
has sound like noisy lifters
stinks like cigarettes
A/C compressor is fried

postitives:

cheap
perfect exterior and interior
solid car

now my delema. Do I just replace the head gasket? Do I have the head gone through? Do I rebuild the engine? Do I just do an engine swap (cost of longblock $800 80K miles)? Or any combo of thse situations?

I think I will be giving this car to my daughter in 3 years when she gets her license!
What to do?>>>>>>

thanks in advance
Pedro

At least you have PLENTY of time to get it ready!
At 187k miles - I think you need to do more than just replace the head gasket - timing chain should be done too as well as valve seals and head gasket. If its running now try some Marvel Mystery Oil or BG Products MOA to free up sticking lifters.

I'd buy a NEW ac compressor and drier/expansion valve when I put the AC together - I am leery anymore of rebuilt AC compressors.

Cigarette smell? charcoal absorbs and eliminates it.
Here is a tip on this:
What makes charcoal an effective odor neutralizer is that it has a very broad surface area. A single gram of activated charcoal has a total surface area of 500 square meters.
Place a few damp saucers on the dashboard, the seats, and the floor of the car. Add a small amount of dampened activated carbon or wood charcoal on the saucers. Leave the saucers and the charcoal inside the car for at least 12 hours.
The damp charcoal will absorb much of the cigarette odor, without leaving any odd smell. The longer you leave the charcoal inside the car, the better it absorbs the cigarette smells. In 3 years you will smell like new.

Nice find!

John in San Antonio