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TheDon
Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
| 1983 W126 300SD
im going to go look at a 300SD saturday with a friend hopefully, hes buying it and im the resident mbz specialist.. what W126 only. things should i look at.. all i know is the AC is kaput, it has a solid body, new front seats, tranny slips a little(vaccuum?) i have no idea on miles.. ill post a vin so someone can run a carfax for me(please )) the owner also owns an E320, an 01 SLK and used to run a mercedes garage. thanks |
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1996_S500
Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
| RE: 1983 W126 300SD
sounds like you will be getting a sweet car TheDon.  I can't really give you any advice on what things to check for, as I have not bought a W126 used, and mine was a family pass down, other than, if you are unsure, maybe an inspector would be worth it... Best of luck. |
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jdc1244
Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
| RE: 1983 W126 300SD
You’ll look for the same things as on a 123. Nice thing about 126s is they’re not so prone to rust and leaking. Check the windows for delamination, where the window will be cloudy or milky in the corners. If possible check the undercarriage for leaking around the diff, flex discs, and front-end components. I’d also check the engine compression. The 300 SD has the same engine and transmission as a 300 TD so you’ll be right at home with the drivetrain. A transmission vacuum issue would be more flaring then slipping although the two are often confused.
I’m also looking for a 300 SD. I don’t need AC in it or the interior to be perfect. The youngest example is going to be 21 years old. I’d just like to find one that is mechanically sound like my 123, it doesn’t have to be pretty.
Good luck.
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TheDon
Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
| Re: 1983 W126 300SD
cool cool.. any other things i should look for that are W126 specific |
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jdc1244
Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
| RE: 1983 W126 300SD
Let’s see…
The chrome inserts on top of the front bumper can rust along with the thin panels under the headlights. The chrome trim around the windows can get cloudy. Inside the B pillar trim around the seat belt can get frayed and tear. The cloth trim around the B pillar driver’s side can come detached. The wood trim on the doors and dash can fade and crack. With time and heat the wood trim can also pull away from the aluminum backing. When this happens the entire piece will have to be replaced. The dash is prone to cracking and the cloth on the large parcel shelf can easily fade.
When there’s a vacuum problem such as a leak the center vent will activate and close off all the front vents. How you have the ACC set has no impact, it can be pretty frustrating in summer with the AC.
All the other issues would be for the gas cars.
Keep us posted.
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TheDon
Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
| Re: 1983 W126 300SD
the guy i was going to buy it from just sold it to his neighbor... damn sooo frign close to getting a W126 for a good price for one in goood condition... i want long wheel base
i want a diesel W126 SDL/SD(preferebly an SDL) soooo bad... i guess i can save up for my laptop still...-sigh- |
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jdc1244
Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
| RE: 1983 W126 300SD
An 86 or 87 (the only years made) 300 SDL is a great car. The 3.0 L six is a fine engine and the second gen diesels are nicely appointed. Steer clear of the 3.5 L cars, long or standard wheelbase.  |
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TheDon
Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
| Re: 1983 W126 300SD
i know about the 350... ill get one.. eventually... bill(with the 350SDL) is going to let me borrow the 350 for a couple days when its time for my prom next semester.. what girl wouldnt want to be driven to the prom in a LWB car.. |
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jdc1244
Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
| Re: 1983 W126 300SD
TheDon - 9/15/2006 9:43 PM
i know about the 350... ill get one..
You're a brave man. I know Bill's is running well, but still...
Perhaps one with a upgraded engine or a new engine. |
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