Re: NEED ADVICE...PLEASE HELP! (archive)

Please, some advice, your experience is needed. Here's the situation.
I bought my lovely '86 528e about 18 months ago from a fellow enthusiast about 18 months ago with the knowledge that there was a leaky head gasket. 3 or so weeks later a scraped my $1200 or so together (to the dismay of my new bride who thought better of me purchasing the car in the first place but humored me anyway) and had the gasket replaced. Now, 17 months later my beloved car is exhibiting these symtoms:
- Generally rough running engine which has nearly dies when I try to accelerate too quickly - especially when cold. As of last week or so the engine has begun to heat up almost to the red zone when idling (usually at stop lights) and there is, as before, oil on the cylinder head.
Could it be the same problem back again so soon??? I pray not - please help me get an idea if you can. Also when is it time to get a new motor and is it worth it? ...or get a whole new car?
Thanks! -matt

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Matt,

First are you a DIY type person who would do the troubleshooting? I ask because changing a head gasket on a 528e with a check of the head goes for around $550 here and that includes a new timing belt, tensioner, and water pump, and all new head bolts. If you paid $1200 I must assume that you do not do your own work. DIY and the price drops to about $110 for the parts alone.

I mention this and ask the question because it affects what types of suggestions would make the most sense.

Bob

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