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

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.

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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