300te head gasket

[k langdon]

I recently had a 72,000 mile service on my 300te 4matic (F reg).

The independent specialist in Bristol said the head gasket is on the way out. He's quoted me just under £400 to include skimming the head and replacing the valve stem seals (if required).

The reason for writing is to ask how do I detect if the head is really on its way out. There doesn't appear to be any oil in the water or any sludge or white stuff on the oil cap and the coolant isn't bubbling after a run.

I don't know if all the above are relevant, but I'm trying to check before booking it in.

Plus, my air con appears to be working, though it doesn't chuck out freezing cold air, it is the cool stuff. The garage have said I may need to replace the compresser at some point as there appears to be a leak. How can I check this?? There isn't a pool of water under the car when it's been standing, etc

Any thoughts gratefully received.

 

[Glideman]

You could try a compression test to see if the head gasket has gone. Another way is to see if your getting any steam out of the exhaust, but this is unlikley if your water level is OK.

Halfords do a comp test set for about £40 cheap by comparison

 

[Sp!ke]

The best way is not a compression test but a cylinder leakage test.

This will give you far more accurate information and pinpoint the exact problem area.