port haus

Have an 00 E320 with 215k on it.
Car runs great dont very few repairs orig trans even (cant believe the infamous oring has held up this long!)

Weve been looking for a super low mile 00-02 silver replacement but every one we see has some story, been cracked up or a million dings. Ours is super straight, but paints peeling etc.

Been wondering if I shouldnt source a good low mile motor/trans in case and keep what we got.


Only places around here that have em are junkyards, prices are a joke for 150k+mi stuff.

opinions where to find what I want?

Or good places to look for that low mile garage queen?
Willing to pay high KBB. Few we do find want 2-3 times that
See a lot on craigslist but usually shady flippers be nice to find a 1 or 2 owner honest car.
Know good stuffs worth more but 8-10k for an old 320 to me is stupid its not like they are collector cars

All opinions appreciated.


Edit: havent logged on here in awhile mods if Im doing something wrong email me. most threads Ive posted have been locked up, why?

FireMechanic

I wouldn't waste my time purchasing a used engine and trans just in case. If it runs as well as you say I'd keep driving that sucker until the doors fall off! You have a 112 motor and 722.6 trans in that car, the car will fall apart before that engine and transmission blow up

port haus

thanks trying to learn as much as I can about these
Shes nuts over her car these things scare me $ wise
Chevy guy here.

Last yr the car locked up in 1st got luck with a reflash but she still doesnt get what they can cost

Are the trans rebuildable sealed case no?

Have no fear of digging through a motor built many but trans nope

E430 are they bad news? seem to be cheaper than the 320

FireMechanic

First things first I am a die hard Chevrolet man too, but I've always been a Mercedes guy as well being that I was a Mercedes Benz technician for a long time. Secondly, power train wise these cars are solid. As long as they're maintained well they run. I own and daily a 430 and it's been awesome. Really the only difference between the 112 and 113 engines is 2 cylinders. The 722.6 if it's been maintained properly is also a very solid transmission, one of the best Mercedes ever made. It's not actually a "sealed" unit. You can easily service it. And it's also believe it or not a very simple transmission and that's one of the main reasons it's so damn reliable. If it ain't broke don't fix it! I'd keep driving that car and don't worry about rebuilding anything. My 430 has 215k miles and still original engine and trans. I just service it regularly and go for it

port haus

Thanks for the info
Weve passed on a few real clean 130k mi cars being as youre a Chevy guy too you know why LOL

Ill get another service done and keep on plugging for now then unless some drivetrain stuff falls in my lap at the right price. C
Cant beieve what some are asking for worn out E320s maybe Im green behind the ears