Should I even think about this deal
 

Saw a 87 300E in a coworker's home. 265000 mile and leaking coolant. Body in decent shape. He said the water pump could have cracked somewhere because they put all new seals and hoses but it still leaks upon warm up.

Is there any life time left for a gas engine at 265000 miles? How hard is to replace the water pump? If I could not get it fix, how much I could get for if I sell it as a jank car?

A compression test could tell a lot about life left. If it's got good compression, good oil pressure cold and warm, and generally seems to run good, it could be, well, good. ;)

Can't tell you about the water pump, but it can't be major surgery...

Best Regards,
Jim

Re: water pump - a lot of stuff has to come off to do the water pump. It can be a real PITA, and will take anywhere from around 6 to 10+ hours, depending on how things go. That being said, with some patience and determination (and especially the Snap-On FLXM13 wobble extension) it is definitely within the grasp of the average DIY mechanic.

Anthony

It's not that bad really. Yes, some things need to be removed, like the P/S pump needs to be unbolted and shifted to get at the water pump bolts. I took the radiator out for more room. The serp. belt needs to come off and that's a good time to change it.

Do a search on M103 and water pump.

It might be a good time for all new hoses too, if you buy the car that is.

water pump R&R is it doable with just hand tools? i'm debating myself whether i can do it!