jimsaco

I have unearthed (!) 2 nice looking 1983 300SDs. One in southern California and 1 in Florida. Can't remember which is which offhand but 1 has 150k miles and 1 has 200k miles.

Both rust free, claimed to be in good condition, all mechanicals fine etc.

My intent would be to buy and convert to Greasecar operation. I live in the northeast.

I guess my question is, how much life do these cars have in them? This would be my daily driver, and I drive about 18,000 highway miles/year.

I have a MB mechanic who I trust to do whatever work is needed. Also willing to learn how to do things myself.

If I get the car are there any urgent preventive maintenance things to do (i.e., do this before it blows up on you).

Any advice welcome, as I am a newcomer here. Thanks

Jim

Untertürkheim

"Converting" these cars to "greasecars" will ruin them. You can run properly remined biodiesel in the cars with no modification. They will last forever if properly cared for, otherwise just a waste.

99EBenz

Go for the one in the best mechanical (i.e. service records) and cosmetic condition. A prepurchase inspection by a mechanic knowledgeable with MB is recommended. The difference in mileage between the two could be a non-issue depending on the service history. If there are no service records that you can put your hands on, treat it like it doesn't have an engine. Of note, the 84 and 85 models are more sought after because the double timing chain was introduced in 1984. On the California car check to see if it has a trap oxidizer. It is sort of a "catalytic converter" for a diesel and I've heard they can be a problem as a failure can take out the turbo charger. I think they went on California cars prior to 1985 and all diesels late 1985 on.

Also check to see if things like control arm bushings, upper and lower ball joints, and axle shaft boots might have been replaced. Things to consider on a 100k mile plus auto that would run into a fair amount of $$ it they all needed replacing.

Also check the status of the vaccum system in regards to the operation of the door locks, trunk lock and gas cap door. As these cars age they tend to get leaks in the vaccum lines which fouls up the locking systems. It's more of an annoyance than anything but expensive to fix due to time required to track down the leak (unless you can diy).

This is not an all inclusive list by any means, just some pearls gleaned from 10yrs of driving an 84 300D. I agree with the previous post, they are tanks and if properly maintained they are immortal.

Good luck with your search,

EBenz

Untertürkheim

The single/double row timing chain issue was only on M116 (380 gasoline) engines.

In either 83 or 84 the front headrests became electironically adjustable and memory was added to the driver's side front seat.
84 and 85 had optional driver air bag, 85 has standard ABS.

All years are identical otherwise: leather upholstery, heated seats, lumbar support were all optional.