(1987 300E)
I had a not entirely unexpected water pump failure today. The needle touched the red line for perhaps 30 seconds before I could get safely off the road.
I was a mile from the house. It cooled off and I was able to get home without it overheating again. Started the removal of the water pump this evening. Since there was a fair amount of crud on that part of the engine I removed the power steering pump instead of just moving it out of the way. I want to get a good clean up going before I put everything back together.
Of course now that those two items are out of the way, I'm getting really good access to the AC compressor, which also need replacing.
So here is the three point reality check request:
1: What are the chances that I escape unscathed from the very short red line incident? Should I just go ahead and set aside the money for the head gasket right now, or do I have a realistic prayer.2: Since the power steering pump is out, what should I do maintenance wise before putting it back together? I figure since it's out already I'd like to clean it up as well as possible before putting it back.
3: This is the big one. Should I even consider getting the AC compressor out since I'm in this far? Safety considerations would be my first concern, secondary concern is that I may be opening a can of worms that I can't get closed. On the other hand it seems I could save a bundle on labor if I can pull it off.Thanks.
Mutant Bluegrass That Rocks!