Best Smoker Barges 1-5 large [Vol 7]
Discussion
0a said:
Blimey what a change, though it should feel better for the £2,234.60 bill I paid today! I must have the highest purchase price to money spent on work done on PH (my parts were another £500+, this did include a major service, sorting a couple of non suspension items, and fixing the rear window though)!
It's great to get in and drive with the car having that 'new car' taughtness to it, driving around here really illustrates how baggy it was before:
I'm a W124 fan so as expected I love it. Hopefully this is the biggest bill out the way before the paint job.
Outside my house (points for identifying where 'I live')
Glad your happy with it. It's great to get in and drive with the car having that 'new car' taughtness to it, driving around here really illustrates how baggy it was before:
I'm a W124 fan so as expected I love it. Hopefully this is the biggest bill out the way before the paint job.
Outside my house (points for identifying where 'I live')
That looks like Ainslie Place in Edinburgh.
Julesx said:
I think I read somewhere many moons ago that the 190 was considered better suited to the 2.0 and that the 2.6 was betterI the W124? Any thoughts? Both of those cars do look good though!
The 4 cylinder may be cheaper and better with the 190 than the 124, but I find it impossible to imagine the 190 is better suited to the 4 pot in any way other than price. The merc straight 6 engines from this era are generally excellent. The 4 pots are 4 pots (ie far better to drive than a modern diesel but still a 4 pot).Some great posts in here as always, particularly like the 535i and the 300SL. This caught my eye recently, I'm a fan of the P38 :
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/231292118497?ssPageName=...
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/231292118497?ssPageName=...
A few things this evening to post about, it would seem.
Firstly.... A massive congratulations to 0a, that's a huge amount of money to spend on your car, but in the flip side, that's a tiny amount to spend on your car to see you through many more miles I'm sure. The main thing? You're pleased with it. Good effort and I'm sure it'll bring many more happy miles for you. I'd love to do something similar to the E65 but I'm saving for a house deposit....! So E65 is just keep in generally good order rather than spend loads improving (wheel refurbishment aside, I guess!)
Secondly.... If a 190e is better with a 2.0 than a 2.6 that's massively disappointing as I felt that it could have done with a smoother, more refined, characterful and more powerful engine. It was a good mini barge. Good ride quality and roomy enough (though rear passengers were left wanting a little perhaps). Was a bit noisy with wind on the motorway but always felt the engine was quite buzzy when cruising at a decent pace. Would have to be a 6 cylinder for me.
Lastly.... The more I drive the E65 the more I love it now. I didn't have to drive far (only around 40 miles each way) but the trip back at night, with the lovely interior lighting etc this thing absolutely demolishes motorway miles like you wouldn't believe. Cruising at a decent lick in almost silenxe (honestly, they really are that we'll refined) with the stereo playing some of Pink Floyds more relaxing songs.... Bliss. What a car.
Only things which I'd love to really sort are a slight oil leak. I'm not sure what it is but it's nothing major. Including any oil it might burn, since it's oil change around 2750 miles ago it's used about 600ml. So not loaf's but noticeable. My indy said as long as the oil pressure is ok and it's not losing oil like there's no tomorrow not to worry for now. When it's next due a service (microfilter in 8k) I might see what's causing it.
It does need new rear tyres in another 5k miles or so which will cost around £400 with 4 wheel alignment etc. I'd love new shocks, springs and bushes all round but I'd be looking at around £1500 as a guess... Plus it has some wear to a hub joint which will likely need doing soon etc. If I were to sort suspension, engine leak, new tyres etc etc I suppose one could quite easily spend £3k on it, and the rest! I would genuinely love to do that but when saving for a house I can't justify that.
Think I said a while ago it was taking me a while to bond with this. I reckon it was because I had to spend £2k on it within 2-3 months and was getting worried. It's been good as gold and had no "unexpected" expense at all since early January (it's had a fluids changed and an MOT which it flew through but nothing else) and I'm really enjoying it again now. Going to the Lake District in a few weeks which will mean around 1k miles in a week with other driving as well, can't wait.
Firstly.... A massive congratulations to 0a, that's a huge amount of money to spend on your car, but in the flip side, that's a tiny amount to spend on your car to see you through many more miles I'm sure. The main thing? You're pleased with it. Good effort and I'm sure it'll bring many more happy miles for you. I'd love to do something similar to the E65 but I'm saving for a house deposit....! So E65 is just keep in generally good order rather than spend loads improving (wheel refurbishment aside, I guess!)
Secondly.... If a 190e is better with a 2.0 than a 2.6 that's massively disappointing as I felt that it could have done with a smoother, more refined, characterful and more powerful engine. It was a good mini barge. Good ride quality and roomy enough (though rear passengers were left wanting a little perhaps). Was a bit noisy with wind on the motorway but always felt the engine was quite buzzy when cruising at a decent pace. Would have to be a 6 cylinder for me.
Lastly.... The more I drive the E65 the more I love it now. I didn't have to drive far (only around 40 miles each way) but the trip back at night, with the lovely interior lighting etc this thing absolutely demolishes motorway miles like you wouldn't believe. Cruising at a decent lick in almost silenxe (honestly, they really are that we'll refined) with the stereo playing some of Pink Floyds more relaxing songs.... Bliss. What a car.
Only things which I'd love to really sort are a slight oil leak. I'm not sure what it is but it's nothing major. Including any oil it might burn, since it's oil change around 2750 miles ago it's used about 600ml. So not loaf's but noticeable. My indy said as long as the oil pressure is ok and it's not losing oil like there's no tomorrow not to worry for now. When it's next due a service (microfilter in 8k) I might see what's causing it.
It does need new rear tyres in another 5k miles or so which will cost around £400 with 4 wheel alignment etc. I'd love new shocks, springs and bushes all round but I'd be looking at around £1500 as a guess... Plus it has some wear to a hub joint which will likely need doing soon etc. If I were to sort suspension, engine leak, new tyres etc etc I suppose one could quite easily spend £3k on it, and the rest! I would genuinely love to do that but when saving for a house I can't justify that.
Think I said a while ago it was taking me a while to bond with this. I reckon it was because I had to spend £2k on it within 2-3 months and was getting worried. It's been good as gold and had no "unexpected" expense at all since early January (it's had a fluids changed and an MOT which it flew through but nothing else) and I'm really enjoying it again now. Going to the Lake District in a few weeks which will mean around 1k miles in a week with other driving as well, can't wait.
Edited by E65Ross on Saturday 2nd August 22:45
PlayersNo6 said:
Some great posts in here as always, particularly like the 535i and the 300SL. This caught my eye recently, I'm a fan of the P38 :
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/231292118497?ssPageName=...
Wow, nice price if that is as good as it looks.http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/231292118497?ssPageName=...
Chaps this has really caught my eye, what are the weak spots - looks lush
http://www.globalautomobiles.co.uk/used-cars/merce...
http://www.globalautomobiles.co.uk/used-cars/merce...
0a said:
I'm not sure about a sound investment, but I discussed the options with my mechanic at length and while the rear subframe was off it made sense (to me) to fully dissemble the rear of the car and treat/repaint alongside redoing fuel and brake lines and every other perishable part.
I guess the moral of the story is that doing such a thing always takes longer than you would think so even a car where parts are relatively cheap it all adds up - I paid for 22 hours labour across everything, but in reality this was an underestimate.
Also all W124s that have not had work are knackered!
Unfortunately my 'house' is still a modern hotel on the edge of town and the photos above were merely where I drove to today!
Thankyou to R129 - without his help I would have paid massively more for all the core parts.
I do think this is a sound investment and you got decent value for your money - would have been easy to pay more and get less done. SO bravo from me - enjoy!I guess the moral of the story is that doing such a thing always takes longer than you would think so even a car where parts are relatively cheap it all adds up - I paid for 22 hours labour across everything, but in reality this was an underestimate.
Also all W124s that have not had work are knackered!
Unfortunately my 'house' is still a modern hotel on the edge of town and the photos above were merely where I drove to today!
Thankyou to R129 - without his help I would have paid massively more for all the core parts.
Edited by 0a on Saturday 2nd August 19:50
I collected my 124 yesterday from the indy, after it was having the high speed instability looked at - no real conclusions drawn, they tightened up the front wheel bearings and advised a 4 wheel alignment and that's it. Have yet to get it out on the raod and see if it's much better - need to drive a little way to get some faster road.
While I was at the garage, the owner was showing me round and under a few of the restos they are doing at the moment including a c107 SLC, an SL and C123. When they take the underside back and clean up/replace/coat all the components underneath they do look splendid...
Is this what yours looks like now oa?
loads more photos
I dread to think what this cost.
E65Ross said:
Secondly.... If a 190e is better with a 2.0 than a 2.6 that's massively disappointing as I felt that it could have done with a smoother, more refined, characterful and more powerful engine. It was a good mini barge. Good ride quality and roomy enough (though rear passengers were left wanting a little perhaps). Was a bit noisy with wind on the motorway but always felt the engine was quite buzzy when cruising at a decent pace. Would have to be a 6 cylinder for me.
Don't worry - LJKS is (well, was) 100% with you - the 2.6 was his favourite MB of the time, I recall. For wafting I think you're right. But for barging with enthusiasm, the 4-pot 2.5-16V auto would be much more lively and fun. (The manual is not really a barge!)kapiteinlangzaam said:
bmthnick1981 said:
Chaps, the very smart blue W140 S500 that was posted recently, and the car below, what is the name of these particular alloy wheels? I think they really set a facelift W140 off.
AMG Monoblocks I think....Edited by kapiteinlangzaam on Sunday 3rd August 09:57
idiotgap said:
I do think this is a sound investment and you got decent value for your money - would have been easy to pay more and get less done. SO bravo from me - enjoy!
I collected my 124 yesterday from the indy, after it was having the high speed instability looked at - no real conclusions drawn, they tightened up the front wheel bearings and advised a 4 wheel alignment and that's it. Have yet to get it out on the raod and see if it's much better - need to drive a little way to get some faster road.
While I was at the garage, the owner was showing me round and under a few of the restos they are doing at the moment including a c107 SLC, an SL and C123. When they take the underside back and clean up/replace/coat all the components underneath they do look splendid...
Is this what yours looks like now oa?
loads more photos
I dread to think what this cost.
Wow what a resto! Great pics. That will have cost a lot I would imagine! I collected my 124 yesterday from the indy, after it was having the high speed instability looked at - no real conclusions drawn, they tightened up the front wheel bearings and advised a 4 wheel alignment and that's it. Have yet to get it out on the raod and see if it's much better - need to drive a little way to get some faster road.
While I was at the garage, the owner was showing me round and under a few of the restos they are doing at the moment including a c107 SLC, an SL and C123. When they take the underside back and clean up/replace/coat all the components underneath they do look splendid...
Is this what yours looks like now oa?
loads more photos
I dread to think what this cost.
bmthnick1981 said:
idiotgap said:
I do think this is a sound investment and you got decent value for your money - would have been easy to pay more and get less done. SO bravo from me - enjoy!
I collected my 124 yesterday from the indy, after it was having the high speed instability looked at - no real conclusions drawn, they tightened up the front wheel bearings and advised a 4 wheel alignment and that's it. Have yet to get it out on the raod and see if it's much better - need to drive a little way to get some faster road.
While I was at the garage, the owner was showing me round and under a few of the restos they are doing at the moment including a c107 SLC, an SL and C123. When they take the underside back and clean up/replace/coat all the components underneath they do look splendid...
Is this what yours looks like now oa?
loads more photos
I dread to think what this cost.
Wow what a resto! Great pics. That will have cost a lot I would imagine! I collected my 124 yesterday from the indy, after it was having the high speed instability looked at - no real conclusions drawn, they tightened up the front wheel bearings and advised a 4 wheel alignment and that's it. Have yet to get it out on the raod and see if it's much better - need to drive a little way to get some faster road.
While I was at the garage, the owner was showing me round and under a few of the restos they are doing at the moment including a c107 SLC, an SL and C123. When they take the underside back and clean up/replace/coat all the components underneath they do look splendid...
Is this what yours looks like now oa?
loads more photos
I dread to think what this cost.
I too cannot imagine what that cost or is costing.
p.s In fact, from now on if I'm ever tempted to buy an old car I'm going to look at those photos first. That should help me resist!
Edited by derin100 on Sunday 3rd August 10:24
derin100 said:
bmthnick1981 said:
idiotgap said:
I do think this is a sound investment and you got decent value for your money - would have been easy to pay more and get less done. SO bravo from me - enjoy!
I collected my 124 yesterday from the indy, after it was having the high speed instability looked at - no real conclusions drawn, they tightened up the front wheel bearings and advised a 4 wheel alignment and that's it. Have yet to get it out on the raod and see if it's much better - need to drive a little way to get some faster road.
While I was at the garage, the owner was showing me round and under a few of the restos they are doing at the moment including a c107 SLC, an SL and C123. When they take the underside back and clean up/replace/coat all the components underneath they do look splendid...
Is this what yours looks like now oa?
loads more photos
I dread to think what this cost.
Wow what a resto! Great pics. That will have cost a lot I would imagine! I collected my 124 yesterday from the indy, after it was having the high speed instability looked at - no real conclusions drawn, they tightened up the front wheel bearings and advised a 4 wheel alignment and that's it. Have yet to get it out on the raod and see if it's much better - need to drive a little way to get some faster road.
While I was at the garage, the owner was showing me round and under a few of the restos they are doing at the moment including a c107 SLC, an SL and C123. When they take the underside back and clean up/replace/coat all the components underneath they do look splendid...
Is this what yours looks like now oa?
loads more photos
I dread to think what this cost.
I too cannot imagine what that cost or is costing.
p.s In fact, from now on if I'm ever tempted to buy an old car I'm going to look at those photos first. That should help me resist!
Edited by derin100 on Sunday 3rd August 10:24
And the thing is when one looks at the extent of what was found in terms of rust it makes me think why should other examples really be much less rusted if one goes looking for it?
Slightly off topic but if anyone is bored this morning and has the time to scroll through this thread on RetroRides look what my friend TonyBMW found on this E28 M5 when he went "looking". Tony is massively skilled and hugely patient. I have neither those skills nor his level of patience and this is why I won't take on E28s anymore (doesn't look too bad in the first pics does it?):
http://retrorides.proboards.com/thread/119596#page...
Slightly off topic but if anyone is bored this morning and has the time to scroll through this thread on RetroRides look what my friend TonyBMW found on this E28 M5 when he went "looking". Tony is massively skilled and hugely patient. I have neither those skills nor his level of patience and this is why I won't take on E28s anymore (doesn't look too bad in the first pics does it?):
http://retrorides.proboards.com/thread/119596#page...
EskimoArapaho said:
Well, I collected the barge for the Euro road trip today. Had to wait for the private plate to be transferred off it.
Much like the one that was SOTW a while ago, there are things to do. But there were things to do on the four or five I looked at, anyway. Front discs and pads and rear tyres are the first to sort out.
Because I wasn't paying attention I didn't really work out what "DHP" means or how to check. And it turns out this one has it. It's the (ahem) performance spec: a stiffer springs, -10mm, ARB and bigger (17in) alloys. Like a sort of half-hearted version of MB's Sportline.
The tyres caused the first "WTF" moment, when the cheapest tyres come out at £200 a corner (£320 at KwikFit!) A choice of Pirelli P Zero or some BMW-esque runflat! Seems that 245/50R17s are not very popular! Luckily there are alternatives.
It's a lovely place to be. Interior is still perfect after 99000m. That engine really is a peach. As a drive, it very much reminds me of the W124.
Got to say it looks clean and tidy.Much like the one that was SOTW a while ago, there are things to do. But there were things to do on the four or five I looked at, anyway. Front discs and pads and rear tyres are the first to sort out.
Because I wasn't paying attention I didn't really work out what "DHP" means or how to check. And it turns out this one has it. It's the (ahem) performance spec: a stiffer springs, -10mm, ARB and bigger (17in) alloys. Like a sort of half-hearted version of MB's Sportline.
The tyres caused the first "WTF" moment, when the cheapest tyres come out at £200 a corner (£320 at KwikFit!) A choice of Pirelli P Zero or some BMW-esque runflat! Seems that 245/50R17s are not very popular! Luckily there are alternatives.
It's a lovely place to be. Interior is still perfect after 99000m. That engine really is a peach. As a drive, it very much reminds me of the W124.
Tyre prices caused me to nearly spill my tea!
Should serve as a truly superb chariot across Europe. I await the reports
Oh and I am surprised there has been no consternation at the description of it driving like a W124
edo said:
Zwolf said:
edo said:
Too much gassing and not enough barges being posted chaps....
Strong money, but not many left with this sort of mileage.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2014...
BMW 5 SERIES 535i Sport 4dr Auto 3.5
39700 miles
That's ridiculous VFM at £3-3.5k. Great find, as usual Edo. Strong money, but not many left with this sort of mileage.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2014...
BMW 5 SERIES 535i Sport 4dr Auto 3.5
39700 miles
E65Ross said:
One of the things that really puts me off old cars. I'm not sure about E65s but I've not heard of any rust stories. I know they aren't that old but many E39s and certainly W210s were rusting at 10 years old.
E34 onwards we're not really talking about rust in the same way. You might get superficial bits of rust but that's not proper rust. I'm talking about proper rust that actually breaks cars. Back in the day (mid-80s) I remember going to a BMW breakers yard in Harrow where they had three E9 CSLs stacked on top of each other (plus numerous other E9s lying around). All were rusted beyond economical repair at the time. Some cars had literally buckled under their own weight because he rust in their sills had caused them to collapse. The cars could only have been 8-9 years old.My own 1974 2002tii was only 8 years old when I got it in 1982 yet it was already considered a rusty banger. When I got my E9 3.0CS in 1988 it was 16 years old and quite apart from the actual gaping holes in the outer panels (e.g door skins) it had already had the whole of the front floor pan replaced.
Cars these days just don't rust like that anymore. The little bits, in the common places that one might see on an E39 are a joke by comparison.
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