C-Class (W203) 2001-2007, C160, C180, C200, C220, C230, C240, C270, C280, C300, C320, C230K, C350, Coupe

Engine Sawp Out

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Rate Thread
 
Old Dec 19, 2014 | 03:05 PM
  #1  
skipbrakes's Avatar
Thread Starter
Newbie
 
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
2003 Mercedes c230 Kompressor
Engine Swap Out

Donor Vehicle 2003 1.8 kompressor manual transmission (Runner)
Vehicle to receive engine 2003 1.8 kompressor automatic (suspected blown head gasket)


Well it appears that the safest route to cure a suspected blown head gasket is a complete engine swap. With that in mind I have a few questions to the wise ones.
1.) Donor vehicle is manual and my vehicle is automatic tranny. Does this pose any problems or needed modifications? (Not swapping tranny, just engine)
2.) Any special needs regarding ECM and security? Will the existing key I have
start the new engine without any new programming? I foresee simply unplugging the cable harness at the engine and plugging in the new engine.
Can it possibly be that simple?
Any other items I might want to be aware of would be greatly appreciated!

Last edited by skipbrakes; Dec 19, 2014 at 04:52 PM.
Reply
Old Dec 20, 2014 | 02:42 PM
  #2  
C230 Sport Coup's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
20 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 7,258
Likes: 168
From: So. Oregon Coast
C230 Sport Coup + 2006 W164 ML350 + 99 Ford Escort RIP
Hmmm....replacing one 2003 engine with another without the upgraded head design
just seems like asking for more trouble. And a lot of expense without resolving the issues of the M271 design.

No idea what I'm talking about? Just read the many thread on damaged valves,
timing gears, stretched chains etc.

IMHO I'd replace the head and timing chain but luckily I don't have to deal with that with my fuel guzzling M111 engine. Though i do have a blown gasket that I've ignored for 70K miles and the car still runs.
When it dies I'll look at an engine replacement if something else doesn't happen 1st.
Just turned 221K yesterday.
Reply
Old Dec 20, 2014 | 07:21 PM
  #3  
skipbrakes's Avatar
Thread Starter
Newbie
 
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
2003 Mercedes c230 Kompressor
Thank you for your thoughts

Thank you for your thoughts. Being on a limited budget, and without definitive diagnosis on Head gasket.... or caused issue in first place (could be cracked block etc.) I have to go with what I can accomplish. Now back to the situation.
Are there any special requirements on synching the existing ecm and starting system with the donor one.
Reply

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 


You have already rated this thread Rating: Thread Rating: 0 votes,  average.


All times are GMT -4. The time now is 10:03 PM.

story-0
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

Slideshow: Before curves took over, Mercedes mastered the art of the straight line, and some of those shapes still look right today.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-25 12:05:49


VIEW MORE
story-1
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

Slideshow: The 190E Evolution II shows how a homologation necessity became a six-figure collector icon.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-22 17:53:47


VIEW MORE
story-2
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

Slideshow: Mercedes is turning one of its core nameplates electric, and the details show just how serious this shift is.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-21 13:58:06


VIEW MORE
story-3
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

Slideshow: Faster charging, longer range, and a controversial steer-by-wire system define the latest evolution of Mercedes-Benz EQS.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-15 10:35:34


VIEW MORE
story-4
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

Slideshow: These overlooked Mercedes-Benz models never got the spotlight, but they quietly delivered more than most remember.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-13 19:35:45


VIEW MORE
story-5
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

Slideshow: A well-used 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300D with more than one million miles is now looking for a new owner, and it still appears ready for more.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-10 10:05:15


VIEW MORE
story-6
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used

Slideshow: From bulletproof sedans to surprisingly tough SUVs, these Mercedes models proved that the three-pointed star can go the distance.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-08 09:55:49


VIEW MORE
story-7
Mercedes Teases Updated EQS With Steer-By-Wire and a Yoke

Slideshow: The 2027 update adds a fully digital steering system, revised styling, and potential charging upgrades as the company looks to revive interest in the luxury EV.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-04 10:24:38


VIEW MORE
story-8
8 Mercedes Models With Poor Reliability Records

Slideshow: From problematic air suspensions to early dual-clutch transmission issues, these specific models and years stand out as the least dependable modern Mercedes vehicles.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-03-26 18:08:10


VIEW MORE
story-9
Magnificent New Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Revealed: 12 Things to Know

Slideshow: Mercedes-Maybach has refreshed the S-Class with new lighting signatures, AI-driven software, and even more elaborate rear-seat luxury.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-03-25 18:01:51


VIEW MORE