DeepSouthRick

Just became the pround owner of a 1981 300D. Bought it from the second owner, who's owned it since 1987. Looking forward to making it my daily driver.

Always loved German sedans, especially the early '80s MBs.

I'm a car guy & own several antiques and hot rods, but this is my first Benz.

Looking forward to owning and learning about a new car!

Now, just gotta find good sources for parts! This one has a few minor items that need attention: Seat cover replacement for the driver's seat, fuel gauge stuck on Full (so I thinking new sending unit), windshield gaskets are showing their age and need replacing (dried and cracking), dash is also cracking.
But she runs great!

Rick

blueone7

I, too, became a proud owner of a '84 300TD. My first, too. I lucked out with it being a one-owner car, with all records. However, there is much work to be done, as she has been neglected for the past few years. The more I learn the more I want to know about these cars. I currently have Jetta TDIs--this car is a whole new animal. I'm loving the challenge.

This W123 forum isn't the most active one, but folks are happy to help when asked.

Scott

Outre

Be sure to check the Rubber: Oil Cooler Hoses; Transmission Hoses, Driveshaft Flex Discs, Drive Shaft Bearing Support, Rear CV Axle Boots, the Transmission Mount and the Motor/Engine Mounts.
If the driver side Engine Mount collapses the Power Steering Belt sometimes cuts through one of the Oil Cooler Hoses.

For parts you need do a Mercedes Parts search and simply look at what the Parts Dealers are selling Stuff for.
After that start reading the various Mercedes Forums to determine what makes of parts are of good quality and those that are not.

High mile 240D

I would replace the oil cooler lines and the engine mounts to avoid a catrostrophic oil loss and subsequent entire engine loss failure

If the left motor mount sinks unexpectedly on you, the power steering belt might grind through one of the oil cooler lines. If you dont look at oil pressure every 30 seconds you are doomed

I had a welding shop weld a npt fitting on the the oil cooler filter housing lid and i hooked up a pressure gauge and alarm horn to that. Self tests itself every time i turn on the engine.

I almost lost her.

good luck

(nothing else will destroy your car as quick)

DeepSouthRick

Thanks for all the info!

I'm having a blast with the new Benz. Always nice to learn about a new car!

My last experience with diesels was in the '80s when I was supporting the heavy equipment for my dad's construction business.


Rick

Stable:
1981 300D
2003 Rubicon
1967 Mustang
1965 Econoline
1957 Chevrolet 210
1931 Model A Tudor hot rod
1952 Ford 8N

thegreatscott

my friend has a benz, whenenever he needs benz parts i always help him and give him suggestions because he trust me in terms of parts. Now his benz is really awesome and in terms of performance its great.

Sher Judge

One of the greatest Diesel engines built 30 + years ago. Congrats, you bought a very unique MB.