W124 MOT and ? dodgy 'specialist'!!

[darreningram]

I have a E280 estate 5 speed auto, 1995. Took it for service nearly 2 years ago and the local 'specialist' having spent £240 on the car told me it was nearly done! Leaking fuel tank, leaking rear diff, oil leak, neaded welding and petrol tank leak- the last one worried me the most so I parked her up in the garage and bought a new 3 series 335d. Having been bored senseless by the predictability of my new car I am selling it and digging the old girl out again. Funny thing is I have been under the car and looks ok- fixed a few holes in the exhaust but couldn't find fuel tank leak- it constantly looks stained and damp due to waxoyl treatment but no obvious leak. Also the garage floor where the car has been sitting in cleans a whistle. Point being don't always take as read what a 'speacialist' tells u, they may have other agendas- I wonder did he want to bid me for scrap?! My understanding was that generally there will be a bit of oil seepage from the engine, diff and auto box? Is there anywhere else I should check for the fuel tank leak? Filler into tank is rusty but not leaking. Also do the police have any strong views about the use of the boot seats? Are they thought to be safe and I assume you don't need to use boosters? Thanks again for any help- MOT in 3 days! We will see how she fares

 

[Charles Morgan]

Petrol evaporates so less likely to leave a residue. Diesel on the other hand...

Knowing W124s as I do what the tech said doesn't sound unlikely. They leak, tanks and fuel pipes do crack (not just at filler) and they all need welding. Leaks can be on the return pipe and vapour pipe into tank.

Anyway, good luck.

 

[renault12ts]

The seats are designed for people (kids) up to a certain height...the police do not make the rules...so long as the seat belts are used and the correct boosters you're ok.

 

[horatio]

Very easy to check the diff oil level - just undo the filler bolt and oil should weep out a little. Might be an idea to ask the MOT garage to check the fuel system just to be sure while its on the ramp?

 

[notsofast]

My old W124 tank leaked at the filler pipe at the point where it entered the tank. If I recall correctly it was exposed to the debris thrown up by the wheel?
It was a pin hole which was easily sealed.

 

[darreningram]

The MOT test in Northern Ireland is a bit different- you have to take the car to a test centre where it is assessed and you either pass or fail- some of the testers can be helpful and give feedback- others are matter of fact.
I will go through my manual and find out how to check Diff level.
The main issue is that I want to know the car is safe and I guess that is what the MOT is for- we will see!!

 

[darreningram]

MOT passed, no issues- says it looks pretty solid underneath