Any disadvantages to a cali version 85 300D

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11-07-2013, 09:16 AM

pbsled

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Any disadvantages to a cali version 85 300D

I am interested in a 1985 300D, original California car and am not familiar with the differences between the more usual and the California variation. Are there any negative or positive aspects of the California version? Are there any specific things to look for? TIA.

11-07-2013, 07:18 PM

pbsled

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Quote:

Originally Posted by ForcedInduction

Two main issues. The emissions system causes reliability issues and significantly reduces economy. The transmission is the much weaker 722.4 version.

The best option is to avoid 1985 California emissions models unless its a very tempting offer.
84 California models are basically the same as the federal models except for the turbocharger and vacuum system.
85 Federal models are the same as 84 California models.

" FI " What would the main reliability be with the 85's,and would you call a this a tempting offer. A Cali 85 300d w/ <275k clean rust free body and from a quick check clean under body. From a short drive this 300d runs well, no smoke trans shifts a little hard and appears to have been well maintained with some new suspension, and drive line parts. As far as the total vehicle 8 out of 10 in my opinion with the worst part being the interior (no real bad issues) and not real high on my priority list. This vehicle is close to home comes w/ some ancillary M/B equipment that I do not have.
I know with out seeing it there is no way to give an opinion but what are your thoughts on this.

Last edited by pbsled; 11-07-2013 at 07:22 PM.

11-08-2013, 09:00 AM

pbsled

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Quote:

Originally Posted by ForcedInduction

That is because 85 California models have a soot filter before the turbo, which is the main cause of reliability and economy issues.

From your description and the high miles, unless you can get it for less than $1300 you should pass.

Is that soot filter serviceable, what interval, and can it or should it be deleted? Thank you for the information.

11-08-2013, 09:10 PM

Diesel9112

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If it has a large Air Filter up near the Radiator you might want to look up the Cost of a New Air Filter I believe they are in the $40+ each Range and local Places like Auto Zone don't like to sell them.