I have an 83 240d with no compression in the #3 cylinder. I pulled the motor/tranny because I going to just the body. Lot of rust.

I pulled the the valve cover before I pulled the engine to see if there was something visibly broken. I didn't see anything so I pulled the head. When I rotate the crank the pistons go up and down correctly. I thought there was a broken rod because of the loud clanking.

Now I think it could be something in the head. All of the spring and valves looked ok. Tomorrow I'm going to pull the upper pan and see if I can see any damage to the #3 rod/piston.

I'd like to the get the head to as close to spec as possible. I've found a few places that sell valve stems and seals. These parts don't look that expensive so I may replace them.

If I bring the head to a machine shop, what exactly will they do? Is it possible for me to rebuild the head or a machine shop a must?

Thx.

Pete