I am just registering on this site as I just bought a 1983 300SD Turbo Diesel. My family has had some diesels in the past (cars and trucks) and my dad currently has a Jetta TDI that we keep running (2003 model). I have long admired Mercedes diesels and am looking for any wisdom, so here I go:

The car is running (yay!). It seems smooth and pulls strong. The trans pulled well during the test drive, but on the way home, as it warmed up, would slip a little (i think, but hoping not), but only on shifts from 2nd to 3rd and only when driven lightly. Shifts firm and well when pushed harder. The steering is out of alignment and has a slight wobble when slowing down, as well as a dab of play from on center.

The brakes stop the car well, but appears to require all the pedal and it's really mushy. I am pretty positive it is in dire need of a master cylinder, but could just be air in the lines.

There is an oil coating all over the engine, but amazingly car is not leaking oil as it sits (or runs) and doesn't pour black smoke either.

The interior is way past done. Seriously. Busted. The body is damn straight though for it's age and the paint even looks really good too.

One of the windows will not roll up all the way and I think the more I play with it, it only goes down, but not up.

So that's where I am starting at. Any help, suggestions or hints are all welcome so long as they are tried and tested methods. Thanks.

 

Thanks for the info. Looks like it can be had for about $70. How hard is it to put in?

Fuel gauge doesn't seem to work either...or at least it bounces around a bit sometimes. I found a sender on AutohausAZ, but not sure if it could be the gauge maybe? Also...as soon as i unlock a door it sounds like the fuel pump is priming, but it's very audible. Is that typical?

 

Thanks for the tips. Also hearing quite a bit of noise when steering. I am ordering a filter and checking the fluid , but have my suspicions I may be replacing a pump. I am having trouble finding hardware for the crossmember that supports the engine. I was cleaning underneath to look for leaks, or old bushings and noticed the crossmember was only held by bolts on one side. No such luck finding things on Autohaus or Parts Geek. And thanks again for the help.