1990 w124 190e 2.3 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

E150GT · #1 01-11-2008, 06:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ajme

Our '89 had a spring perch problem: The top spring mounts rusted to the point that they bent up. I had them welded back. No subsequent problems.

150,000 miles is nothing. It may need new valve stem seals, if they have not been done.

A 1990 probaly still has R12 in the air conditioner. That is why it no longer works. If it has been converted to R 134A, bonus!

I don't think that timing chain stretch is a problem on these engines. Only the 3.8 litre v-8. However, it is a good idea to watch the cam chain tensioner and the guide rails.

The usual stuff will need repair eventually: antenna mast, window motors, blower switch, water circulating pump, cruise control amplifier, motor mounts, corroded fuses. It looks bad, but this is what I have done over about 5 years.

The transmission only lasted 225,000 miles.

If you do a search on 190e or w201, you will come up with all sorts of comments on longevity, and the things that can go wrong. But really it is a very reliable car.

Andrew
1989 190e 2.6

Why would R-12 be the reason it doesn't work?

Monomer · #2 02-16-2008, 10:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by E150GT

Why would R-12 be the reason it doesn't work?

Bump, still looking at this car (well, actually - the girlfriend is)

R-12 is no longer legal to use - and most people don't like converting to 124a...

we're gonna offer $2k and see if he'll take it, the window says 3400 and it's been sitting for quite a bit.

tvpierce · #3 02-17-2008, 03:59 PM

I'm not trying to be difficult, but R-12 isn't illegal to use. It's still readily available, but you can't just buy it over the counter -- you need to be a certified tech.

Unless something has changed, you can become "certified" by taking a simple test on the internet... then you're able to buy it anywhere.

There's been much discussion on this forum as to the merits of converting an R12 system over to R134. You'll have to come to your own conclusion on that.

Regarding the 201 you're looking at. The $3400 is KBB retail for that car. I wouldn't offer a penny over $2000. Personally, I feel these cars are "worth" more than that, but price is dictated by suppy and demand. And demand is extraordinarily low for an 18 year old Mercedes with 150K. Why? Because the general public is scared to death of the repair costs for an MB. Additionally, the general public has been hoodwinked into the notion that FWD (or better yet 4WD or AWD) are a NECESSITY if you live in an area that gets snow. Use this to your advantage. Make your offer, but be prepared to walk out the door. When they get sick of looking at it on their lot, they'll give you a call.