Some people say that to keep a 126 body car riding it's best, replacing the suspension bushings should be done every 100K. I might be wrong.

I have also heard on this forum that the M104 CAN need a head gasket every 100K. I'd rather be prepared for the eventuality than have it blow up in my face unexpectedly.

I suppose I could have worded my first response better.

One thing to be warry about in the 300SDL is that if it overheats, the head can crack, and it's no easy task to find a new one. At the very least, if overheated, the head gasket can need replacing.

__________________
All it takes for evil to prevail is for good men to stand by and do nothing.

Too many people tip toe through life, never attempting or doing anything great, hoping to make it safely to death... Bob Proctor

'95 S320 LWB
'87 300SDL
'04 E500 wagon 4matic

Sure a headgasket can blow on any car. They don't blow up in your face, they usualy give you lots of warning. AFAIK the M103 had a lot more trouble with head gaskets then late production M104's ever did.


At 200k miles some parts in the front suspension of your average W126 like the ball joints, guide rodes, and shocks are in need of replacement.

If you want to talk front suspension W140's have those fluid filled lower bushings that always seem to leak.

__________________
2016 Corvette Stingray 2LT
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200

SDL for classic looks.

S320 for overall comfort.

W126 is more "communicative" as far as road feel, IMHO. But, needs another 100 hp to have a bit of fun, in general.

__________________
1987 300SDL (324000)

1986 Porsche 951 (944 Turbo) (166000)

1978 Porsche 924 (99000)

1996 Nissan Pathfinder R50 (201000)

New 603 cylinder head castings are as readily available as 140 evaporator cores. 603 cylinder head and 140 evaporator cost about the same to replace.

Sixto
87 300D