Thinking of buying a 320TE

[TonyJones]

Hi,


Just signed up today and after some advice from you more learned members.

I've just sold my rice racer and am after something a little more refined/sedate........

I've been looking at buying a Mercedes estate for up to £4k with a FSh/leather and as many options as is possible. I've found a few that fit the above one of which is a petrol 320TE 1993 auto. I think this is a w124 engine and has 24valves..is this correct? Also are there any must have/desireable options/colours to avoid on these cars?

Any buying advice/test drive 'test's would be greatly appreciated. Any basic stats like MPG/BHP etc would helpful too.


Cheers

TonyJones..first of many posts I suspect!

 

[turnipsock]

I wish I had thought of buying one of these.

 

[TonyJones]

I wish I had thought of buying one of these.

why :?

your avatar looks like you've just had a MB repair bill :lol:

 

[andy_k]

1, make sure the back suspension works properly

2, check all the electrics and service documentation referring to the wiring loom - it should have been changed under MB warranty, if it hasn't been be ready to face a big bill at some time in the future

3, drive it, if it runs well with good oil pressure at low revs and is smooth over the bumps but and kicks like a mule when you floor it then buy it


HTH


Andy

 

[TonyJones]

Andy,

Thanks for the info. The car does have a fill MB history but not sure whether they will have all the bills to confirm wiring loom swop. Will try and find out.

From what I've gathered so far I should check the following:-

1) auto box gear change in both settings and pulls well :wink:
2) Oil pressure/temps
3) rear suspension levels up ...lard arse sat in boot on start up and rides the bumps well
4) check wiring loom
5) check trans oil, should be reddish...can this easily be checked from the bonnet area?
6) FSH/MOT's stuff
7) try all electric toys. seat/sunroof/window/alarm,boot auto close/lock, rear wiper, cd etc

and last but not least kick tyres so salesman knows i mean business :-D

..and then try and get it as cheap as possible :twisted:

Tony

 

[Chazchuzzlewitt]

couple of things: transmission dipstick is at the back-left of the engine, looking from the front of the car (driver's side). Should be a red or black chunky knob you unclip to pull out.

Head gasket!- open up the coolant expansion tank (left side again) and peer in- should be clear and clean- if you see any crud that looks like oil on the cap or in the coolant walk away or take at least £500 off the price.

The engine is the M104 and the car is a W124 series. These engines go like stink so enjoy- I wish I could afford to run one!

 

[TonyJones]

Thanks, was a bit worried I wouldn't spot it (trans dip stick). Looking at car on sunday.