1986 300E M103 losing coolant.

[d2bernhard]

Previous Info:
Hi,
Thought I would relay this. Looks like my headgasket is going on my ’86 300E at 200k miles. No puddles and pressure test hot and cold found no leaks. No oil in water. However, the fluid was going somewhere -- the light was coming on at about every 300 miles needing 0.5 to 1 Liter fluid added. Exhaust was steamy at times and cold starts had a very lumpy idle as well.

So, not that I wont do the head gasket and upper end on this baby – I don’t really relish all that $$$$. So, I went for the $ solution to at least buy me some time. Bars Leaks. 1 bottle at $3.99. So far about 1,000 miles and no fluid loss. No overheating, no steam, and cold idle almost perfect.

New Info

I am again losing coolant. I have a few questions. Any help greatly appreciated. Car is early 1986 300E M103 204k miles.

1) The radiator cap holds pressure a long time – I have come home Friday night and not driven and checked the car stone cold on Sunday to find it holding pressure. Is this an indication of anything?
2) If I do decide on head gasket and head work, what do I need to have tested before hand to ensure it is viable to repair?
3) What can I expect to pay for head job, gaskets, possible chain and guides and the various other seals which are opened on this job.
4) Finally, is it worth trying a re-torque of the head bolts?

Thanks Again!