I just installed a thermostat in my 1985 300D the other day because i moved from phoenix arizona to the much colder southern illinois climate. anyway.. long story short.. I started the car and let run for almost an hour and checked the temp. gauge. It was perfect. I drove the car around all day and the temp remained perfect. On the next day.. paying no attention to the temp gauge i drove the car around 35-45minutes. i smell the antifreeze and look at my gauge and it couldnt read any higher of a temp (+120) i drove the car another mile before i found a place to pull over. the car stalls as i make my stop and i quickly get out to open the hood. WHAT?! theres a fire on the enging by the firewall !! ( no visible damage was done by this tiny fire. ) ALSO... there was a pretty big oil trail from where it had stalled to where the car sat.. leading to a puddle of oil under the car.

..i had it towed home.

now, i thought i blew the head gasket for sure but the water is still clear and the oils not muddy after replacing what was lost. (2 quarts of oil and a gallon of water) there is no sign of any leaks and the car will not start now. Not even with Either. i got the car to start one time right after the tow home but no luck since... it cranks and puffs white smoke from the exhaust. i dont even know where to begin. Can anybody help out ? I appreciate the help if any. Thank You.