DSMSpoolin

here at my work we have a 1997 mercedes e320 that idols very rough, idoling between 200 and 1200. it even fluctuates like this while the car is in drive. we have checked alot so far so im turning to TR for answers. we checked the intake for obstruction, replaced the MAF, checked to make sure it was getting proer spark and replaced the spark plug cables, checked the fuel pressure and made sure the fuel pumps were kicking on and still nothing has changed. infact it has got worse. Last time we moved it from the front of the shop to the garage it let out quite a thic tral of white smoke. not sure if its burning alot of oil from a sure leak somewhere that i cant find or if the head gasket has gone bad. maybe TR can save the day?

when a car has a bad headgasket does it typicly idol like crap like this? im unsure.

Thanks TR

DSMSpoolin

we also did a quick vacuume leake test yesterday. im not sure if we went over it thouroghly enough because we were in a rush but the places we checked (around the intake) were fine.

dwrec37

If the head gasket is bad, then the motor is losing compression and trying to burn coolet. Yes they will idle like shit.. does it eat coolet? Open the radatior cap when u start it. Check for bubbles.

jeff k

Do a compression test to see if it has blown a head gasket, and also a radiator pressure test to see if there is a crack in the head.