Hi all - I'm a new member to the board, although I've been both Volving & lurking for some time. You've already unwittingly helped me through several teeth-grinding repairs on my recently-acquired '90 240DL wagon ("what do you mean, I can't pass MA Inspection without brake lights, turn signals, or backup lights?!?), so I look forward to possibly reading your responses to my myriad foolish questions. :)

After my '87 240DL sedan was destroyed in a T-bone incident with a speeding pickup back in October (you should have seen the other guy), I have recently acquired my 5-speed, B230F-equipped wagon. As of this morning, it had 249,635 on the clock. The body is in beautiful, rust-free condition, and the interior looks & even smells like a new car. According to the evidence (it came with $32,000 worth of maintenance & fairly big-ticket repair receipts, as well as the original window sticker) she was a bit of a powder puff in her previous life.

However, she naturally needs quite a few things. She got four new tires this morning; in addition to other regular wear items I'm looking to do (engine/transmission mounts, exhaust probably from the manifold back, fuses, tune-up, fluids change, new timing belt, there's a short in the power window system someplace, and a fuel leak going on somewhere), it's time to do the suspension. I will primarily use this car as a grocery-getter and road-tripper, with the heaviest item hauled being a small kayak (+/- 50lbs). I have my eye on the Bilstein Touring shocks & struts sold by FCP Groton; however, the Boge Pro Gas shocks & struts look intriguing. Economy & smooth ride quality are my primary objectives; the springs look good, and I'm really not looking to Pimp My Ride. Thoughts? Other recommendations?

Also, where is the flame trap access on this engine?? She's spewing (not leaking) oil from the seals, valve cover & cap, and I can't seem to find the thing even with the proverbial map (or Haynes manual) & flashlight. I'm hoping a good cleaning solves the problem, but if not, that's another post. :)

Thank you - lots,
J. and Wilhelmina the Wagon