I have bought my first mercedes and I could not be happier so far. It is a 83 300D turbo diesel with 104,500 original miles on it and I only paid 1000 bucks for it. The guy I bought it from thought the odometer was broken, but it actually works perfectly. There are other things that do not work so perfectly, but all in all I think I got a great deal. I'm also in texas, so no rust or dents, just faded paint and the interior could use a bit of work.

I was actually wondering if some of you more knowledgeable folks could help me with some information. First of all, I am a good mechanic, I just usually build jeeps. I usually buy a hanes manual for every vehicle I own, but I was wondering, is there a better manual for my benz? Also, I know the valves have to be adjusted, so hopefully if I find a manual I can learn how to do that. If there is a trick to it i'd love to know. The front end shakes between 55 and 65, but I think that is just a tie rod end or ball joint. The final thing is the transmission shifts a bit late and it shifts hard. It chirps the tires between first and second if I remain on the throttle. It doesn't slip, just shifts late. I am also looking into a WVO conversion. I've done some research, but I'd like some opinions on what you think is the best one.

There are other things like 2 of the windows don't work, and the AC needs recharged, but those are minor things. I'd appreciate any advice I can get. If anyone needs some Jeep advice I have knowledge on that subject.

Thanks,

Dan

 

Forced Induction,

Thanks for all your help. The car actually does only have 104500 actual miles. I checked. Not all of us Jeep guys are as dumb as we look

I went to Diesel Giant's site and I was glad to see all the write ups and how to stuff. It really took alot of the mystery out of the machine. I even found out what was wrong with my transmission. New Vacuum valve levers and a trans modulator valve is on the way. I have had diesels before, and while the basic diesel principals are the same, the mercedes seems like a much better design than GM or Ford. It seems very easy to work on and maintain too.

I know you have been doing this much longer than I, so I will look into the BioDiesel conversion stuff. Might have to wait till I get more cash though. Again, thank you for all your help. If is appreciated.