Hi everyone... i've been lurking for a few days and i finally decided to set up a login. There is a lot of great info on this site. I'm looking at a 77 300d (with the automatic) tomorrow as a first time Mercedes purchase, and my first diesel vehicle. I am planning on using it for some short distance commuting and just general cruising.
Again i don't know a lot about these cars so i was wondering if there is anything in particular i need to look for when i am checking it out? i'm a pretty good shadetree mechanic, but i have no experience with diesels or Mercedes Benz vehicles at all.
what kind of fuel mileage should i expect with this car as well?

thanks all and keep up the great work in this site. i'll keep you posted about the car.

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ok thanks. what do i need to look for mechanically? any problem areas with these cars to check for?

 

Hi I have found that they are pretty easy to work on. I am not a mechanic and I keep mine going. I was told to look for these things. Make sure it starts cold fast, you shouldn't have to crank and crank it unless maybe the temp is extremly low. Check the climate control, its not the fastest to turn from heat to cool but it should turn. Oil pressure should go all the way up and stay there until the engine is pretty warm then it shouldn't drop to low. Mine stays between 2 and 3 when warm and idling. Transmission will shift pretty hard and thats normal especially from 1srt to 2nd. These cars are pretty great and these forums are as well. Maintainance is pretty general. Oil change every 3,000 miles, fuel filter change depending on car, most of the time you can look and see if theprimary is dirty. I don't change the secondary fuel filter everytime I change the primary one. I change it maybe once a year. The manuel I got with mine says to change the brake fluid and coolant once a year. Other than that I can't think of anything else. Don't pay to much. Good Luck!!

 

Check the rubber componentslike hoses, vacuum connectors, etc. If they're originals then they would need replacing very soon.

 

thanks everyone! thats all great advice. i couldnt get in touch with the seller today so i will try tomorrow. He's asking 1500$ firm... we'll see what happens.

 

the guy called me back. he said the car has been in storage for almost 15 years... he runs it once in a while but it hasnt left his garage in a long time. He said it overheats and he doesnt know why. he tried taking out the thermostat. Says he thinks it could be the head gasket but when i asked him if he's losing coolant he said no.
it also hasnt been registered for 15 years so i would have to go through an inspection to put it back on the road if i bought it.
a bit more work and hassle than im looking for

 

already passed. thanks

 

Yes, run FARFAR away

Unless you'd like to see my repair bill for just an engine transplant (not even a rebuild)