190E rattle

[gina2201]

Ok, I am or was going to look at a 190E tomorrow, however I have learnt it has a rattle from the engine at 3000rpm plus, this has started approx 2000miles ago car had a replacement head and head gasket 3000 miles ago.

Should I avoid and walk away or could it be something simple? I know it's vague but any ideas?

 

[Ian B Walker]

Its possible that the hydraulic tappets need re filling or cleaning. It could also be weak valve springs.

 

[Dieselman]

Could be an oil pressure problem.

Difficult to say without hearing it but a light tapping will be the tappets, more of a louder rattle COULD be the little ends.

If it's louder when not under load consider little ends.

Shame you've not got one but an engine stethoscope would probably tell all. Can you get a friendy garage to have a listen for you.?

 

[gina2201]

Thankyou for the replies. But I think I'm going to have to say no to this one. Guy doesn't have receipts for recent work done-sound a bit dodgy?

Friendly garage not available to help me I'm afraid.

 

[grober]

Could also be the timing chain/tensioner. If its pre 89 ish it will have the single timing chain which wears out. Easily checked by feel thro the oil filler cap on the cam cover.

 

[neilrr]

They made 1.8 million of 'em. Plenty out there that don't rattle.

What's version do you fancy & what's your budget?

 

[gina2201]

I was wanting a merc with leather for a budget of approx £1000 for myself.

OR a nice CE with a combined budget of £2500 to "share" with my brother.

 

[Will]

Could also be the timing chain/tensioner. If its pre 89 ish it will have the single timing chain which wears out. Easily checked by feel thro the oil filler cap on the cam cover.

Was going to suggest this also, didn't afterwards as Gina said she wasn't going to buy it anyway. (and I was about to log off!) Certainly good advice as they would have both been disturbed when the head was removed.

The poly-v belt dampers can sometimes cause similar untoward noises, worth checking?

Will

 

[Will]

I guess this is the one you were looking at Gina?
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/1990-MERCEDES...tcZphotoQQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I might be wrong, but I think it belongs to somebody over on the 190 forum?

If you wanted some more info, I could try and find out (although personally I would look for another... )

Will

 

[gina2201]

Yes it is that one. or rather was! It was because it was so close to me that thought it would be worth a look, and I'm sure I have seen it parked in my street before!

 

[neilrr]

It's a tarted up 1.8 with 155K & a rattle in the engine. You can do MUCH better.

Forget about basing the decision on bodykits or leather. If you can't live without one or both then buy them on ebay AFTER you buy the car.

It's much more important to get a loved, serviced, non rusty, sound car......& then you can add away. A standard leather interior in excellent condition will be £250-300, a Cosworth kit sold through the 190 forum last week for £120.

A member of the Mercedes-Benz Club is just about to sell his VERY good 1990 190E 2.6 auto with FSH & 90K. I know the car & it's good.

The 2.6 is the best one for everyday use IMHO (I have 2 of them!)