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Heep
03-03-2004, 01:04 AM
Looking to get a W124 within the next couple weeks, mainly since they're so plentiful and cheap here around Toronto, then I can drive it for a year, and sell it back home in New Brunswick where there's less supply for more money (or at least break even).

Anyways, I've noticed there's at least a couple W124 guys on here and plenty of Benz people, so I'd like to ask for some advice. I'll be committing an unworldly sin and buying a Benz that's under $5000 (nothing's as expensive as a cheap Mercedes ;)), and would be a sedan with an M103. I really don't care if the car will last me for the rest of my life as I will be selling next February and just need it to be good for about a year with general maintenance, so I feel pretty safe buying a cheaper one (bear in mind the Toronto prices seem ultra-low anyways, I'm assuming simply because of supply).

I know about the wiring harnesses and will look to see if they've been replaced, also will check the head gasket, but do any of you W124 guys have further insight for me?

Thanks

nismodrifter
03-03-2004, 01:37 AM
ZorroAMG is the local w124 expert on beyond......just wait for his reply in here or send him a PM if you have any questions :)

ZorroAMG
03-03-2004, 09:24 AM
Wiring harnesses were an issue mainly on the 93-95 W124's with the M104 engine, so you should be okay. Head gasket, valve seals/guides, check to make sure the steering box doesn't leak (there is a re-pack kit available to re-seal it). Check the HVAC blower motor and push button control units and make sure everything works there. If you are buying a car in the winter, it is hard to tell if the car will overheat. M103 (and all MB's for that matter) run a pretty hot engine so check that the thermostat works correctly, check that all auxillary fan(s) work, including the modules that run them. Older W124's had plastic necked radiators and they were a cause for grief, see if the radiator has been changed with a metal one. Another thing you should have checked or replaced is the throttle cable, BELIEVE me. ;) Last, check that all power windows, heated seats, window derosts etc work..

W124's are solid cars, but seeing as they are a minimum of 9 yrs old now (up to 18 yrs old) they are bound to have some issues.

You should join the following boards to help you with service issues/questions:

General W124 stuff http://forums.mbworld.org/forums/index.php
All MB related issues http://www.mercedesshop.com/shopforum/index.php3
Moddifying your Benzo http://www.bnzsport.com/

Good luck and let me know how it goes!!

Heep
03-03-2004, 01:29 PM
Sweet, thanks, you've listed a few things I've never seen in other advice, particularly the radiator and throttle cable.

I might be going shopping this weekend, I'll keep you posted :)