300CE head gasket
 

Can someone give me an idea on what it may cost for an indie to repair/replace a head gasket for my '92 300 CE and what may be involved so I don't get bamboozled and I know what I am talking about when I talk to an indie?

Maybe someone can give me an idea of some of the parts involved and/or valve job at same time? Does it need it or??

Norm, expect the estimate to be around $2,500 ... that's what our daughter paid 2 years ago for replacing the head gasket on a 1991 300CE. Only have a reputable, MB-trained indie perfom the work.

If you intend to keep the car longterm it would be a good idea to rework the head ... polish the valve seats, replace/regrind the valves and replace the valve stem seals.

It would also be a good idea to check the timing chain stretch and replace the upper and lower timing chain guides while the engine is apart. Depending on maintenance history you may want to replace the water pump and thermostat too.

I just did one on my '93 300CE and it cost about $2500 which included a new starter and all of the hoses and tubing. Car runs better than ever.
Anziani
'93 300CE 195K
'95 E420 122K

The much praised Mr. MB Motors in Tarzana, CA did my head gasket in the old '93 300E for about $1,500.

The original quote on my car was $900 to pull and reinstall the head plus materials plus any machine shop work. Per my instructions "replace anything that looks old" I'm happy at $2500:)
Anziani

...and it's been a while since I sold this car to a forum member, but I recall the quote included having the valve guides and seals replaced, and the head checked for straightness.

If you plan to keep the car, rebuilding the head is going to be a very wise investment.
You need to have the head cleaned, skimmed, pressure tested and valve guides and seals replaced.

This also will increase the longevity of the exhaust system as you won't be burning any oil once this is done. Not a drop.
Expect $2500 for the head gasket, full head rebuild and maybe a water pump and seals/hoses.