how bad can it be/oil leak,/coolant leak - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

coleman kelly · #1 09-27-2003, 08:32 PM

Searching related threads, it appears that I need a head gasket. Over the initial terror and hysteria and looking forward to taking on the job. Want to be sure.

Was driving about 10 minutes, smelt oil, pulled over, popped hood, noticed the engine felt hot (temp gauge has been erratic, and inaccurate) noticed oil leaking from head near the front of engine. Check oil, it was low between the low mark and the end of dipstick. Restarted, which took painfully long, didn;'t want to go, drove 4 blocks added 2 quarts of oil. Car stalled ( this is what is spooky: may have run out of fuel at the exact time) wouldn't start. Added 2 gallons of fuel, Got a jumo start, fired up pretty good, (much easier than before0 Maybe simply b/c it was cold.
Noticed that the exhaust pipe spit about 3 table spoons of water(not 50/50 mixture) Added coolant/water mix, took 3/4 of a gallon. Drove home 6 miles, had power and ran smooth.
Noticed hiss/bubbliong from the radiatir around the top where plastic and metal meet.
Pistons pressurized the radiator? COuldn't find thread verification on this.
So, pretty sure I need a head gasket anbd maybe a radiator.
Compression check first?
Also committd to getting the dash demon fixed, bad ground, temp sensor.
Have done some heads on non deisels, how much is it to have it checked for cracks, not always visible. DO they have a DIY product get to check for hairlines?
Thanks everyone.