Hello All,

I am just inches away from purchasing the 1985 230 CE, Euro car I have found locally for sale by private owner.. Car is in flawless shape (literally), 140K, has the M102.980 (4 cyl) engine, Automatic, Euro lights, bumpers, etc. Has been maintained by local MB dealer for most services, local MB independant for smaller things. I have a couple of questions about the mechanical properties of this car:

-Is the M102 engine reliable? This is the 1985 model (specifically, its the M102.980)..and it felt peppy and was idling smooth and quietly. I am curious about the timing chain scenario on this motor (as some other gasser MB's this is a 'fragile' part?).. Being a euro motor and an '85.. would it be safe to assume this one is a single row chain? Is the chain as big of issue in the 4cyl motors? It does appear oil changes have been religious, w/ 15w40 oil. On that note; how much would you approximate the local independant MB shop should charge to have it (and, the tensioner) replaced..??

-The Transmission..: It shifted well in all gears, but 2-3 had a flare symptom... otherwise seemingly fine.. I seem to recall certain Automatics in certain model years had a vacuum modulator ?? (or, some kind of adjustment mechanism for this symptom?) I've even heard about some kind of "piston" that usually needs to be replaced (?) What would be your likely guess as to fixing this symptom??

-The Wipers..: the "intermittant" speed setting for the wipers don't work.. But "lo" and "hi" work.... (?)

-Rear Driver's side window regulator..: Are these difficult to replace? The motor works but the window immediately gets stuck in downward travel (??)

Any and all help is greatly appreciated.. trust me guys.. this one is a *real nice one*.. a Euro coupe!

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milesb@mac.com