Thanks for the responses guys. I think I will try the conditioner Rkreutzer mentioned, to start with.

The gaskets are indeed pricey.

Thanks again.

Mike

__________________
'90 300SE 298k
-300K and it gets put into retirement.
'80 300D 255k Purchased new by family in 1980.

Had a:
1973 220 (gas)
1980 300SD
1992 400E