After finding out my oil leak wasnt the front timing chain cover on my 104, I sent it in for a head gasket replacement.

However, they've come back with something unusual.

They have stated it looks like the head gasket has been done recently.

They said also that they dont think the head is the correct one. They stated there is a front oil gallery in the block, however it is just blank in the head - near where the leak was. They say its the wrong head. Its a 104. 999 xxx engine....

Any words of wisdom? The machine guy is talking about modifying the head.

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1985 190E - Gone
1989 230E - Gone
1995 C200 - Gone
1993 280E 120000KM - Built like a brick, the best one yet

That is way that was designed. The head & gasket keep oil from flowing any farther.

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MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
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44 years foreign automotive repair
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190E 2.3 16V ITS SCCA race car (sold)
1986 190E 2.3 16V 2.5 (sold)
Retired Moderator

Right, head gasket is replaced. No oil leak now.

BUT!!

The car now idles like crap.

Acceleration is great, but surges at idle in gear. Seems to be hot or cold.

The mechanic said it is something to do with adaption? Seems to have improved as I've driven it but I'm intending to take it back to him tomorrow.

Any ideas?

__________________
1985 190E - Gone
1989 230E - Gone
1995 C200 - Gone
1993 280E 120000KM - Built like a brick, the best one yet

It may be because of the engine wiring harness. Check and see if the insulation is disintegrating. A head gasket change is very traumatic to this defective wiring. What you described - rough running after head gasket change - is a classic symptom.