The previous owner (I'm new in the car) obviously re-used the oil galley keepers resulting in a seized head and one bent valve. My questions are: 1) what needs to be removed to pull the heads? 2)What are the chances of the longer bolts stripping out- the long cam bolts looked pretty corroded. 3) How many hours should I expect? 4) What are the chances I damaged a piston to the point of replacement? The cam seized with the last lobe (nearest the firewall, driver's side) in the 6 o'clock position. 5) Should I go with OEM or after market head gaskets?

I have a 107 engine manual on the way, but want to dig into it before it arrives. Getting married in a few weeks and would like to go topless. I'm in Seattle and we have to capitalize on the few sunny days we get

thanks alot!

Shaun
:eek:

I have not seen them break a valve off in a piston yet although I have heard of it.

This is a tough job, even for the pros. Really think of whether you want to invest in the time and tools required to do this. In some cases, it is better for a tech to do the hard stuff.

------------------
Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1992 500E (very soon I hope :)
1981 280GE SWB
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Shaun,
What do you type in to make :) have the expression that it does in your reply???

Just click on the hyperlink on the left column where it says "Smilies Legend" and it gives you all the options. I picked the one that I did given the unexpected expense before getting married next month.

Donnie, I appreciate your position regarding the complexity of doing head R & R, but I like to do most of my own mechanical work. Aside from precision machining and tranny's, I'm pretty comfortable doing my own work. I wouldn't have bought a 25 year old European car if I wasn't up for a few cut fingers,etc. That's why I'm turning to this page for seeking information from the folks who have the experianced and expertize. Hoping this will provide a few tricks for doing the job.

thanks
shaun