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PointedThree :  Sedan Forums : W123 E,CE,D,CD,TD,TE Class : New project: Questions for you diesel guys

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New project: Questions for you diesel guys
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Posted 5/21/2006 3:22 AM
W126

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
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New project: Questions for you diesel guys

Hey 123 guys,

I am going to be starting an interesting project shortly and am considering using a W123. 0 – 60 times are not important, but maintaining 60 mph – 90 mph for extended periods under high temperature situations are a must in the vehicle I am going to be choosing. I’d like some impressions of the 240D, the 300D and the 300D turbo. I’ve owned the turbo 5 before (my W126 300SD). In the interest of sheer reliability and not having to worry about the turbo charger, I am thinking naturally aspirated (this is not to say that I think the turbo is unreliable). Are both the 240D and the n/a 300D nearly the same as far as sheer reliability is concerned? Obviously the 300 is more powerful, drinks a bit more diesel and has an extra cyl, but I am interested in reliability.

Next, are manuals more prolific on the 240’s? I’d prefer not to have to deal with an automatic.

Sounds a little silly, but any way to reinforce the drive train for more traction? Also a little more ground clearance is desirable and you hear a lot about drop springs – is there any springs to increase ground clearance on these 123’s?

Thanks for helping me with the start of my research.

T

Edited by W126 5/21/2006 3:34 AM
#14659
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Posted 5/21/2006 9:26 AM
Ed Mclass
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Date registered: Apr 2006
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
Vehicle(s): 1958 180a, 2010 GLK, 2000 G 500, 2005 SLK 350
Posts: 1215
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RE: New project: Questions for you diesel guys

For sustained long distance driving with flawless performance, a 240 D is hard to beat. Many of these models were and are used as taxis around the world. I had a 1983 240 D that served me well and racked up 400,000 miles when I finally traded it. Standard transmission wouls be the way to go as the old automatices begin to wear out at 250,000 miles.

The 300 D is also a reliable engine, I had it in my 1985 300 GD. I couldn't say it was as economical!!! (In a G-Wagen at least). The 300 TD is a good engine, but if you don't need the the turbo boost, why caary the weight. It is an enjoyable engine and makes a beautiful sound on the interstate at speed. We have had several of the 300 TD wgons, and that engine is a nice fit for heavy hauling.

There is alot of conversation about bio-diesel currently. As fuel prices drop, I think this will be a consideration, but not as big a concern. Diesel fuel quality is a very real concern however. There are major problems if you have poor fuel in a diesel as you know!

I hope this helps. For more detailed discussions you can go to www.mbca.org and consult the tech, George Murphy.
#14673 - in reply to #14659
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Posted 5/21/2006 12:30 PM
jdc1244

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
RE: New project: Questions for you diesel guys

As you correctly noted the 617.952 engine is no less reliable than the .912 or the 616. My n/a 300 D is essentially a 240 D with an extra cylinder but is makes quite a difference in derivability. The additional 0.6 L makes for a smoother and stronger engine.

Don’t discount the automatic transmission if well cared for – my original 300 D transmission is near 400,000 miles and is working perfectly. It gets new ATF and filter every three years and has responded to this PM well. Indeed, all MB engines and transmissions respond well to aggressive PM.

The drivetrain and suspension of these cars is extremely strong. These cars negotiate twisty dirt roads and urban hazards such as curbs, dips in the roads, and high water well. They are not off road by any means but I’ve taken my 300 D places my 126s can’t go. Why the interest in clearance?
#14700 - in reply to #14659
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Posted 5/21/2006 2:44 PM
iNeon

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
Vehicle(s):
Re: New project: Questions for you diesel guys

240d automatics won't reach 90mph as stock, only around 87mph is attainable.

I do not know about a 300 or a 240 manual transmission, however.
#14728 - in reply to #14700
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Posted 5/22/2006 2:26 AM
BenzDieselTuner

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
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Re: New project: Questions for you diesel guys

i would say that the turbo is also extremely reliable, wen cooled enough, by a good lubricant..........

get a 5cyl. turbo



Edited by BenzDieselTuner 5/22/2006 2:27 AM
#14962 - in reply to #14659
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Posted 5/23/2006 1:20 AM
W126

Date registered: Dec 1899
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Re: New project: Questions for you diesel guys

Thanks guys for your insight.

jdc, as far as my interest in the added ground clearance, I am considering a medium used 123 diesel as a long distance rally entrant. I'm considering a few ways to tweak the suspesion and drivetrain to make it a little more usable in a more hostile environment. The environment will certainally not be what a rock climbing G-class would be in, but it is a rally that cars do take part in as well as SUV's.

T
#15279 - in reply to #14659
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Posted 5/25/2006 3:54 PM
BenzDieselTuner

Date registered: Dec 1899
Location:
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Re: New project: Questions for you diesel guys

have u had any success yet............?
#16099 - in reply to #14659
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