Thanks for the reply. One quart of oil every 600 to 800 is normal for these engines? I do not know if I could get used to that. I guess I have been "spoiled" by my 1990 Lexus LS400 not using ANY oil between the 3000 mile oil changes- which still amazes me. I really like this Mercedes- because like I said- the body and interior are perfect, but its just what he said about those valves "sticking" concerns me. I just hate paying $4000, then have to pay $3000 more for a rebuild. He did say he would like to get $4000 when I asked the price again, but I suspect he would take $3500. When he said $4000, he said that he should be able to clean it up a little and get at least $3500 for it at the local wholesale auction. Would I be better off looking for a $5000 model, not requiring possible engine work? I also heard a few "changed" stories about this 90 300SE- which makes me even more leary. I may take your suggestion if I cannot locate another soon and have that "leak down" test done to it and let the mechanic look it over.
I located a fairly local 88 420SEL in VGC for $1999, but this low price has me suspicious. The owner said it runs perfectly and I have seen several photos of the car and it looks very nice- NO rust, excellent interior. If I could just make the time to make the 4 hour drive to inspect it. I guess I will just look around and not make any hasty decisions. Thanks again.
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Originally Posted by Hatterasguy
It is an old car it won't be perfect, I know of a few "perfect" W126's that sell in the mid to low teens. Those cars are know to have weak valve stem seals, not an expensive diy repair. A quart of oil every 600 or 800 miles is within spec for that motor. Have a shop do a leak down test, as long as the oil was changed I doubt the bottom end is going south. If the body is clean and the interior is nice, another $3k and a little work and you will have a real nice ride. For $4k it sounds about right.
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