Josh

You are on the right track with your analysis questions. I would be doing the same. If you look to get a used one from someone you should be able to run a compression test even out of the car with a battery.

-find out whether the engine has had a head job .... cylinder head gasket and/or valve guides and seals.

-depending on the damage replacing the damaged parts maybe the way to go.

I a way I have been there and one that - do become a student of the subject as you are doing. There are two direct benefits: You are ensured of making the right decision AND you always learn something in the process that helps later on.

Keep us posted, we are pulling for you.

Haasman

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'03 E320 Wagon-Sold
'95 E320 Wagon-Went to Ex
'93 190E 2.6-Wrecked
'91 300E-Went to Ex
'65 911 Coupe (#302580)