I just test drove a 1991 560SEL (white with gray interior). It has 75K, no paint work, drives nice, everyhting works, rides excelent. The only issue is they tell me that the local Benz store told them that the driver's side head gasket has a very minor leak and probably would need to be fixed in the next 12 - 24 months. Should I be concerned about this, how long can I delay fixing, can it kill the motor? I am not sure what a head gasket is but they said it would be almost $2K to fix. They are willing to sell it for $10,500. I love the car and wonder if this gasket issue may be an indication of other hidden issues that will cost me a fortune. thanks!!!

 

the gasket frequently leaks but if it cannot be solve by using a thicker cylinder head gasket, you might end up machining the cylinder head too.

the crankcase often get loose thread too where the cylinder head bolt is. loose bolt cause leak too.

 

Do I need to worry about the leak? Can it wait or am I risking major engine damage? Do you think it is worth $10,500 US given the fact that I will spend $2,000+ fixing the leak at some point?

 

the 117 engine can easily get damage when it comes to leak and must be taken into consideration. i have slaughtered lots of these engines. i use a lot of helicoil too.

your engine is one of the best one that i like...power and smoothness and strong. take good care of it and it will give you the best performance you'll ever need.

a water going inside the cylinder will bent the connecting rod... scratch the cylider wall... break the lower crankcase... dislocate the timing chain.... hit the valves... will overheat... bent the cylinder head or even crack it... and will become disposable for it is impossible to repair anymore.

take it.

 

Run, don't walk away. It's a $5000.00 car at best.

 

In "fair condition" which KBB defines as having minor mechanical problems, the car is valued at $6,800.

In "poor condition" which KBB defines as having major mechanical problems, the car is valued at $0. No value.

A leaky head gasket is a major mechanical problem. You're looking at spending $12,500 to turn a car of $0 value into a $6,800 car.

I would not only run. I wouldn't look back.