blurrz

Dear all- id like to thank all the contributors here and especially those that have answered my specific questions on the various bits for my truck.
I am disappointed that my ownership of my w163 is seemingly coming to an end. My truck has relatively few miles (140k) compared to a lot of others on the thread - however it seems it has developed a growing list of major(?) issues

- Truck doesn't blow cold air: I have a hole somewhere that is ingesting foreign debris, supposedly need to replace the a/c condenser, compressor and filter dryer
- radiator cracked - active leak, hoses fouled
- power steering leak - needs pump, j hose and belt replacment (active leak)
- active leak on valve cover gaskets
- main seal leak

In total it would cost me over 10k in repairs from the dealer. I know I should be wary of what the dealer says, but I've confirmed prior to taking it in that I have an active coolant leak and steering pump issue.
I wrenched on the truck, but do not have the skill to do any of these repairs myself. I am going to dump the car and I dont think there is much value in selling privately (no trade in value) - is the best way to get rid of it donating it to some charitable orgainzation for a federal tax credit?

Does anyone have any other suggestions?

Thanks again

Racin_fool

why not find an independent shop around you to address the issues for half the price of the stealerships?

XboxMeister

I faced a similar and even worse situation with my 1999 ML430 with 246k miles. Even at an independent repair shop all the things that had gone bad would have taken $16k+ to fix. It ran but just wasn't safe enough or worth repairing. It had served its purpose so I donated it.

smo0othride

If you're just going to donate it then I would go ahead and try all those magic stop leak additives. Normally I would never recommend those because they ruin the viscosity of the fluid, but might be worth a try if you're out of options.