Thread: Cooling System

I've settled down somewhat since my last post, so I'll give some context to the pictures.

Originally Posted by Me on another forum

This was my 300TD, I bought it earlier this year with a failed water pump. After I replaced the water pump, I used the car for a few weeks with no ill effect except for a really rough idle - it was stumbling badly and very smoky. My presumption was that the head bolts had stretched or the gasket had blown when it was overheated because there were exhaust gases entering the coolant. (In fact there was so much pressure in the cooling system it was blow out of the radiator cap from cranking alone)

I was rather surprised to see the head gasket perfectly intact when the head came off. My assumption is that the PO must have driven for quite a few kms without any coolant in the engine at all. Number 2 and 5 pistons have melted and the bores are scored to buggery. Even if I wanted to have the engine rebuilt, I very much doubt the block would even be salvageable.

I'd have to say I'm bloody gutted because I spent a few thousand fixing up some problems and only got to drive less than 100kms. I'd always wanted a 300D Benz and I know if I persevere and get another one then it wont be money wasted on this one as I'll have plenty of serviceable spare parts. It's just a matter of finding one, a good one, and having someone who knows what they're talking about affirm that it is a good one. I'm not too sure to be honest.

Combining this with the fact that I had no interested buyers in a half decent Series for $500 across six weeks, I'm questioning whether I was ever meant to own a car...

Precisely why I'm so paranoid about overheating ... frightening how quickly it can totally destroy an engine