kevin111

i recently got a 92 190E,2.6,auto,with 120kkilo/70kmiles from a family friend,
the car is running ok, just couple of problems need to figue out:
1. oil leak
2. the cooling fluid is dirty and oil-mixed-like
(i took some photoes of this engine and i could email to you)
3. is the radio antenna suppose be powered?
any suggestion?

MTI

Sorry, but it sounds like you have the typical blown head gasket, or at worst, a warped head . . . but most likely the head gasket has blown.

(i took some photoes of this engine and i could email to you)
Yes. It is powered and the motor unit is accessed via the trunk, behind the plastic wall panel.

kevin111

thanks, MTI.

PS... a local machanic quote me $500labour + parts to change the headgasket for me, (in his backyard) , do you think this is a good offer? he said i need to change the gasket right away.

RDM3

$500 for just labor or is that labor and parts?

MTI

The price, even without parts (you'll need to flush your cooling system too and I would change the oil), sound decent for the amount of work. Working on the M103 engine in a W201 chassis isn't as easy as the 4 cylinder. It's pretty cramped in there. The radiator and radiator support has to come out. While the front part of the engine is being disassembled, I would seriously consider installing new timing chain guides (plastic); and a new chain tensioner. If you had the time, having the head dipped to clean it off might be worth it depending on its current condition.

kevin111

labour$500
parts about$150-$200 for the gasket set

kevin111

MTI, is this what i need? -Cylinder Head Gasket Set-(attaching link is the parts i plan to order)

http://69.0.158.19/live/A801027058REI.JPG

or the crankcase gasket set?
http://69.0.158.19/live/A802026401GOE.JPG

or just valve cover gasket?
http://69.0.158.19/live/A803025632BRU.JPG

thanks

MTI

You'll need all three and more, the valve cover gasket, the head gasket and the front timing chain cover gasket. You'll also need the gasket for the water pump if it's not included with the timing chain cover set.

Although the job can be done without removing them from the head, some mechanics do remove the intake and exhaust manifolds rather than disconnecting at the downpipes and fuel system. If the manifolds are removed, it's a better idea to change out the gaskets on them too.

Check the serpentine belt too.