Adding a turbo to an OM617.912?

[CanuckWrench]

Hi, I realize that the accepted wisdom is "go find an OM617.952" Be that as it may, what's required to retrofit a .952 turbo unit (I don't know if it's KKK vs. Garrett) onto a .912? Do I need a .952 exhaust manifold as well? Other parts? Would any manifolds from models other than a w123 300D be appropriate? Thanks for the help. It's for a project I'm evaluating. Obviously, if I had access to both cars already, I could answer some of these questions myself.

To remove this ad, register today or login if you already are registered!

[OM617]

Originally Posted by CanuckWrench

what's required to retrofit a .952 turbo unit (I don't know if it's KKK vs. Garrett) onto a .912?

Block, oil pump, crankshaft, rods, pistons, injection pump, injectors, exhaust valves, camshaft, oil pan, exhaust manifold, oil supply line, intake manifold, exhaust system and air filter system.

In other words, the only reusable components are the valve cover, cylinder head, injector lines and intake valves.

[CanuckWrench]

Thank you for the info. I eventually found a similar response on another forum; first three digits notwithstanding, there's a lot of difference in these engines. I'd originally thought they were all the same, and bulletproof, as there are several stories of .952 HP increases of 50% with no ill effect, but I guess the non turbo engines weren't built to the same specs.

The good news is I've acquired a 1981 300SD, built for the job.

[NakedApe]

Don't worry, the "looks the same" argument is the same common mistake that has lead many people to think the Olds 350 diesel was a "converted gas engine".