Head pressure testing

[classicmels]

Hi, I was wondering where the best place to have someone pressure test my car to confirm whether the head gasket is failing, it's a 190E 2.0 and i live in between Corby & Stamford, trouble is, I've contacted 7 garages so far and not had one reply. The car, I drive 10 miles and in traffic it smokes so badly you cannot see behind you, it pressurises and loses water but never oveaheats, I can't even get the fan to kick in because it won't reach 100. You can sit inside and watch it going up in temperature and as soon as it gets to 95 ish you can watch the gauge drop right down below 80 and then up to around 90 and stabilise for a while.

Also, I've been quoted around £1k to do the gasket, skim the head and new seals which I don't think that sounds bad at all in this day and age but my brother is telling me to get it flushed and put head gasket sealant in for a cheap and fast fix and well, as a partially retired Antiques dealer I'm against cutting corners, I would appreciate any advice please.

 

[mattkh]

Another check that can be done is a chemical test of the coolant.
I do not know what is used for the test.

 

[mioba]

sounds like a cracked head / gasket as gas entering the cooling systen causing pressure. The fkuctuations in temp is air passing the sensor.

 

[rayhennig]

sealant in for a cheap and fast fix

Not a good idea. You need to find a good MB specialist who will do it properly.

Someone on one of the forums will recommend a specialist. You may need to travel a bit for the right one.

RayH

 

[Steve@Avantgarde]

Price Brothers, Avonmouth in Bristol is my go to. I dont know if that helps you?

 

[rifiki]

I have cylinder pressure tester, I live North Notts.