'91 CE needs a head gasket
 

Hey fellows,

I'm new to the forum and I've got a few questions. My '91 CE is in need of a new head gasket. I'm not a professional but I have rebuilt a few engines for myself. I'm wondering if I should tackle this job or bite the bullet and pay a professional to do it. I know that if I do it myself I'll need the shop manuals. Which one and where do I get it? The engine is the M104. I've also notice a distinct noise in the rear. I first thought that it was road noise from my tires, but I've rotated them and it didn't help. What do you think it is? Finally, if I do the job myself, where do I get the parts? Thanks! jmerc6

Start with the service manual CD for about 30$ and read up on the engine job. That will give you an idea of some of the things you are facing. Price a head gasket kit and be prepared to buy a few special tools.

Success with a mercedes valve job comes from attention to detail and being willing to spend the money on the right things. Line up a qualified machinist, one that has worked on mercedes heads before and lots of them.

As for the rear, put it on a lift and take a look. Start with the rubber donuts that connect the drive shaft ends to things. Plenty of other rubber mounting bits down there.

-CTH

I think the 124 CD is more like $75, from MB, at 800-222-0100. The Haynes 124 manual might also be helpful, about $40 at 303-237-0911. You can get parts here - click on "buy parts" above. You don't necessarily need to do a full valve job.

If you have rebuilt a few engines then you should be fine with this job.

http://www.pauldrayton.com/uploadfiles/merc/Service/W124/Main.html

w124 service disc for free

enjoy.

Wow!!
This was more than I was expecting. Thanks for the advise, and for the free shop manual. This is going will go a long way in getting me started.
I know I'll need more advise.
Again, thanks guys.
jmerc6