kokobeach

I am looking at buying a 1977 450sel for $500.00 The body, interior and suspension is in great condition. The owner has told me that he was getting oil in the coolant. He pulled the heads, thinking it was a gasket or cracked head. I guess a Benz mechanic told him it couldnt be the heads, it has to be a cracked block. Any opinions?? Apparently, the engine was rebuilt a few years ago. could it be something simpler than a cracked block? Thank you in advance

mbtech208

I don't have much experience with cars that old, but it might not be engine oil. It could be transmission fluid, which on a car that old might have the same color as oil. In which case, it could be the radiator that has failed, causing trans fluid to mix with the coolant.

bamberger_1

how in the world would transmission fluid ever have a chance to mix with the radiator coolant???????????
If the head gasket is ok and there's still oil in the coolant it is the block or the head which has leaks!!!!!!!

bostonwasp

KOKO;

DON'T BUY THE CAR ............. COULD TURN INTO A LABOR OF LOVE.

BW

mbtech208

The trans fluid cooler is built into the radiator. If the separation between the two fluids fails, they will mix.

kokobeach

Thanks to all who responded. I decided not to buy the car. To many unknowns. Thanks again.