what to look for when buying 400E?
12-06-2009, 09:41 AM
#1
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what to look for when buying 400E?
my sister had a 260E so i have some W124 knowledge but is there anything special to look for on a 400E?
my mom has a S420 and i'd imagine the 4.2 to be better/more fun in the W124 chasis, would this be correct?
my mom has a S420 and i'd imagine the 4.2 to be better/more fun in the W124 chasis, would this be correct?
12-06-2009, 01:25 PM
#2
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You would love the power of the 400. They are usually nicely spec'ed out too.
Make sure you have a Pre-Purchase Inspection done by someone who knows MB's well.
M119 engine runs hot. Check for hardened rubber on fanbelt tensioner - will cause belt to slip.
Heat also eventually fries the upper wiring harness, made of eco-friendly, but not owner friendly, bean curd. This causes all sorts of intermittent engine running woes and hiccups.
Check for dried out front flex disc - dries out from engine heat and crumbles - driveline vibration.
Check for engine noise on start up, could be Timing chain / chain guides, very $$$$ to fix.
Otherwise the same as the 260/300E 6 cyl, but without the headgasket problems.
Let us know what you come up with. Post pics.
Make sure you have a Pre-Purchase Inspection done by someone who knows MB's well.
M119 engine runs hot. Check for hardened rubber on fanbelt tensioner - will cause belt to slip.
Heat also eventually fries the upper wiring harness, made of eco-friendly, but not owner friendly, bean curd. This causes all sorts of intermittent engine running woes and hiccups.
Check for dried out front flex disc - dries out from engine heat and crumbles - driveline vibration.
Check for engine noise on start up, could be Timing chain / chain guides, very $$$$ to fix.
Otherwise the same as the 260/300E 6 cyl, but without the headgasket problems.
Let us know what you come up with. Post pics.
12-07-2009, 11:41 AM
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1992 400E (180K miles)
Also check the radiator plastic connection to the small hose (top right) this tends to get brittle and break. replacement radiators have a better design and run $300-400 but removal and replacement is simple.
12-07-2009, 12:30 PM
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thanks for the replies guys!
lol at bean curd harness.
and wasnt aware of head gasket problems on the 260/300's. the 260E had over 330k when the trans finally died, but motor was ok and original.
is this the best forum for W124's? i searched but didnt find any real active MB forum...
lol at bean curd harness.
and wasnt aware of head gasket problems on the 260/300's. the 260E had over 330k when the trans finally died, but motor was ok and original.
is this the best forum for W124's? i searched but didnt find any real active MB forum...
12-07-2009, 02:26 PM
#7
MBWorld Fanatic!
I'm not sure to be honest. Many members from each forum are active across the different forums. I've personally found almost all the information I could need right here from various members and the search tool.
When I find good stuff, I stick it in my thread so I can go back and look at it when I have the time/money to make use of it.
I've never found this forum lacking, but PeachParts Forum has many DIY articles and Wiki-how type documents which can be very useful.
When I find good stuff, I stick it in my thread so I can go back and look at it when I have the time/money to make use of it.
I've never found this forum lacking, but PeachParts Forum has many DIY articles and Wiki-how type documents which can be very useful.
