Hey everyone,

I have been over on the diesel side of the board for a while, but want to come over here and ask this question. My wife has decided that she really likes the W140 chassis, and we will begin looking at some in the near future to purchase. I am trying to stay away from the diesel ones because of the rod issues, plus my wife is tired of plugging in her 87 300d on winter mornings. I know the W140 chassis spanned a large number of years. What are the year(s) to watch out for if any? Which gas engines seemed to be the most dependable and long-lasting. We are open to really any of the engine options, but don't want a dog in traffic. I was thinking mid-late 90's with under 130,000 miles if possible.

I usually end up fixing most things on my cars, so what are the problem areas I should look for besides the normal used car things I would check? Is there an existing guide out there somewhere which gives advice on the W140? I know when I bought my W124 someone had done a great write-up that was very helpful as we looked. Thanks for any advice!

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97 S500 (90,000 miles) - wife's car
87 300D (298,000 miles and a replacement #14 head)
94 Suburban K2500 - need something to haul firewood
83 300SD (343,000 miles) (sold)