Benz W123D's topics - tribe.net

Valve Adjustment Question

Michael — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:34:51 GMT

Hi,

I am looking for specs and the procedure for adjusting valves on a '84 300CD Turbo.

Thanks,

Mike

posted in Benz W123D - 3 replies

Radiator Flush?

Michael — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 18:18:22 GMT

My 84 300CD seems to be running hot in traffic. I have not changed the coolant since I purchased the vehicle three years ago. I looked for a drain on the radiator but did not find one on the engine side of the bottom. I have heard there is one, as well as a block drain.

Anyone know the locations of these drains?

Thanks.......

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

head gasket

George — Sat, 30 May 2009 21:48:40 GMT

I am getting a new head gasket, along with a visit to the machine shop on heads.
is there any possibility that running B100 could have caused this? I doubt it myself (290k on engine) , but thought I would throw the question out just the same.
is there any head gasket that would work better while running b100?
Thanks

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

'83 300D wagon needs new transmission

mamabotanica — Wed, 08 Sep 2004 03:33:25 GMT

Hey all my wagon died on my way to burning man (primer fuel pump and transmission both failed at hte same time!). Fixed the fuel pump (easy) but transmission is a dicier problem. I found a used transmission that seems reasonable. Car is still up near Sacramento (I'm in LA!). Any suggestions? I still owe $3700 on my loan for this car and it's been a bit of a sore spot (bought it sight unseen and it wasn't in near as good shape as was implied). What to do?
Joan

posted in Benz W123D - 6 replies

head light lens cover

George — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 12:22:44 GMT

I have a 85 300TD wagon with the European head lights and a Benz dealer told me he couldn't order the part. I went online and couldn't find one, any suggestions as to where i might find one?

posted in Benz W123D - 9 replies

spring spacers and benz clearance

wendy — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 02:26:58 GMT

Howdy, so I live on a very bumpy dirt road. Its hard on the old '77 240D. I have heard of some sort of spring spacers that can give your benz a lift of an inch or two. Also, I wonder if I bought tires one size too big if that would help gain me some clearance without screwing things up too bad. Anyone have experience with doing something like this....Is it possible?? thanks for any ideas

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

wagon for sale

3dogs — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 06:23:27 GMT

I'm selling my 300TD wagon for $5,000. It has 250k and needs some body work.

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

Dewatering BD & WVO

Doctor_Who — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 16:43:46 GMT

So I've decided that I've had enough of disposable filters and whatnot for cleaning my oil. And I've been doing a little casual research into either building or buying a centrifuge to separate out particulates and water from my base waste oil.

I decided to flip through YouTube as it seems to be an endless source of ppl with hairbrained ideas on just about anything you can type into the search box.

Well it turns out that a apparently popular way to dewater veggie oil has been heat the oil up. Now while this is a crude and quasi-effective means of evaporating water out of oil, it really is just taking one form of carbon savings and transferring it to another. (But I'll save the carbon emissions spiel for another occassion)

I'm going to tell you my top 2 runners up for the Biodiesel Darwin Awards and leave you with links for your personal viewing pleasure. Just in case you havent figured this out. DONT DO THIS!

High among my fave videos are of one subgenius using 12,000 kilowatt hours to heat his oil in a barrell. He had tapped a hot water heater into the side of his barrel. Besides the fact that these heaters will glow red hot if not completely covered with liquid, it just seems incredible to me that this guy would think it was a good idea to use so much energy to dewater his veggie oil. He was however very proud of the fact that he used toilet paper tubes to keep his gloves open so they could dry out while he wasnt using them. He also seemed rather proud of the negative ventilation unit that he built out of bathroom fan and some sort of flexible vent tube to sit over the bung hole. This was "to keep the smell down".... I'm not sure what that means but the fact that the water that he had trapped in the closed barrel was likely to just recondense on the sides and lid and drip back into the oil seems to have escaped him.

Points for the toilet paper tubes, but minus those points for the fire marshals investigation into why he burned down his garage and scorched the neighbors house with the biggest grease fire since the one at the pit bbq 30 years ago.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8DWsB8CAGQ
-----------------------------------

My next fave comes from the timeless problem of how to dewater oil if you live in a apartment. This gentleman is limited by the fact that he has moved into a place with no garage. So he has decided to place a plastic barrel next to the laundry equipment and to heat the oil in a 5 gallon pot that he proceeds to heat up on his stove to "around 300 degrees" then he lets it cool down to "150 degrees", then he uses one pot to pour it into another pot and then pours that pot through a rudimentary metal strainer (sized to catch french fries and rat tails) and also a sock filter ONCE and lets it cool. Points for at least having a strainer / sock filter combo. Minus points for pouring scorching oil into a plastic container.

My major complaint about this video is that you dont actually get to see this rocket surgeon potentially heating up the oil to its flash point in the largest canning vat he could find at the flea market. Thus causing him time in jail and his neighbors in a red cross supplied hotel because they didnt have renters insurance and didnt know their neighbor was heating up and had stored enough oil to cause the fire dept to call for the foam unit two counties away.

The fact that he goes through all this labor JUST to pour the oil into his diesel Ford, tickles me. Besides being an enormous waste of energy heating the oil on a stove top the labor intensive process this guy invented leaves no doubt as to why the USA is #21 in the world for science.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCJqwK_aHFg
----------------------------------------------

Now I dont want you to think I'm making fun of these people, because I'm really not. I think of it as more of letting you see these people making fun of themselves. What these folks are doing is simply demonstrating the relative genius and hardy nature of the diesel engine.

This next video is one that I consider to the be the winner in this batch of nominees. This is representative of the least common denominator when it comes to biofuel or waste veggie oil systems. Just because you found it on the Internet doesn't mean its a good idea. While these guys don't have the spit and polish of some of the other systems on the market lets face it, they represent a very real segment of people who have no earthly idea of what they are doing, but they are willing to sell it to you in kit form.

One of my major problems with this idea is the fact that the guy hosting the video repeatedly mentions that the system is clogged up right now, but that its ok because he just poured too much dirty oil into it and that he also needs to just change the filter. To me there are more glaring problems than just a clogged home filtration water filter. My main problem with this system is the fact that the bottom tank has no way of being emptied. With no way to drain the filthy oil particulates, or dump it when after months of settling with water and algae it becomes rancid.

Points for being the first and only system that I've seen that was completely gravity based. Also points for not being a serious danger to life and property. This system uses no pumps or heaters or other energy consuming or carbon producing means. I'm not a big fan of just randomly heating oil as is causes turbulence in the oil and extends settling time. (Try it if you dont believe me oil that isnt heated will settle in a shorter period of time than oil that is heated). Points deducted for being almost completely ineffective for anything except storing mass quantities of oil for settling out. I wouldnt go so far as to say it is a bad idea, just a mediocre one with poor execution.

In case anyone is wondering this system is modeled very similarly to a mound septic system. With a settling tank, a separate weeping tank and in the place of the weeping array an overflow tank to receive the "filtered oil". The major differences is that a 2 or 3 tank septic system is mounted with baffles on the interior of the tank so that the settled sediment isnt stirred up by the arrival of fresh waste. Thereby limiting or eliminating the possibility of solids to the secondary weeping tank. Now I'm not making any puns about crappy design here, but it kind of makes you wonder where the inspiration for this idea came from.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEbwK27YJIQ&NR=1

Well thats all for now. So many videos and so little time to write them up. Keep it safe and when in doubt make a YouTube video!

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

Advanced Biodiesel Class(es)

Doctor_Who — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 01:25:51 GMT

Biodiesel Production Classes

1-Biodiesel Essentials: Sept 18-19, 10-5 pm (no experience necessary)

2-Advanced Topics in Biodiesel Production: Sept 20-21, 10-5 pm. (Must have prior experience or attend the Essentials class first)

Riverhead, NY (location will be emailed to registered participants)
early bird registration before 8/16 $108 per class
After 8/16: $120 per
www.girlmark.com

(These classes are also taking place in Brookville, FL in October, and other parts of the country)

Biodiesel is a clean-burning diesel alternative made from any natural oil or fat. It can be made easily in a backyard or garage environment. We are offering two classes at a home in Riverhead, LI, covering beginning or advanced topics, on September 18-19 or 21-22.

The Biodiesel Essentials class is a comprehensive, hands-on workshop that teaches you everything you need to know to make high quality biodiesel, use your system more efficiently, and make informed decisions about shortcuts. This class is geared to both beginning and more advanced students and we encourage discussion of questions you may have, as appropriate.

There are extensive hands-on 'lab' portions in the class during which you will get individual attention to make sure you understand the process fully and can do the techniques on your own at home. We will run a full-sized system but also do 'lab'-scale batches so that you really learn the underlying concepts and techniques, and we will make some 'engineered failures' so you learn what not to do and what causes it.

The Advanced Topics class covers many more techniques beyond basic production, and will be more discussion-based, with some experienced regional homebrewers and farm-scale biodiesel producers attending, who will share their experience (if you have experience in biodiesel, please bring a short presentation about your system, or photos to share). There will be some hands-on lab work in the Advanced Topics class as well (soap testing and water/glycerine neutralization, ethanol-based biodiesel production techniques, and acid-base two-stage biodiesel will all be done as a lab exercise). Advanced Topics will also cover regulatory issues with small-scale production, composting or boiler fuel use of glycerine and advanced treatment of spent wash water, taxes, and more.

To attend the weekend Advanced Topics class, you must have prior experience making biodiesel, or attend the Thur-Fri Essentials class first.

Location:

We are meeting in a private home a few miles from Riverhead, NY, with many 'green building' and recycled building materials technologies on display (photo below is from last winter's Biodiesel Essentials class). The address will be emailed out to registered participants two weeks before the class. We can help arrange transportation from LIRR in advance.

There is a working, functional homebrewing system on a trailer that we will operate during the Essentials class.

Some topics covered in the Biodiesel Essentials class:
biodiesel/SVO/solvent thinning (ie DSE etc) options and history
biodiesel chemistry
testing oil (titration and water testing)
removing water from oil
making test batches
an overview of equipment
Equipment build- help build a reactor at the end of Sunday's class
quality control factors
quality testing
mistwashing and other water washing options
breaking emulsion
two-stage base biodiesel
waste water and glycerine treatment and disposal
reuse
waterless soap removal with Amberlite and GL's process
common pitfalls
hands-on experience recovering from failed batches and emulsion
special considerations for biodiesel made with ethanol instead of methanol
safety

The Advanced Topics class covers topics that include:

Quality control
analysis of real-world problems with offspec biodiesel
"ASTM testing" for those considering commercial production
gas chromatography versus other options for testing for conversion
acid-base biodiesel process
advanced topics in dewatering of oil
using glycerine in your process for various benefits
testing for soap
methanol recovery and equipment design
testing recovered methanol for purity
zeolite and other methods for improving methanol purity
issues to avoid when "waterless washing" with ion exchange resin
acid-base chemistry and safety
testing for residual soap
acidulation of soap in glycerine, special equipment considerations
Recapturing oils or biodiesel trapped in glycerine or wash water
dealing with high-water-content oils
Graham Laming-type vapor control system
spill-proofing your system
regulatory issues
taxes
larger-scale equipment design (for co-ops or small farms)
treating wash water and glycerine for disposal or other uses
commercial tests for wash water- BOD, COD, FOG, etc
real-world test results related to biodegradability/safety of sidestream disposal
burning glycerine safely for energy
hydronic/solar applications for biodiesel and wash water heating
disaster prevention scenarios exercises for larger-scale processor systems
discussion of regulatory topics for non-commercial producers larger than homebrew
solar heating options
very through discussion/demonstration of several different options in washing, including drawbacks and advantages
greywater systems for wash water recycling

I strongly recommend that you read this website first: www.biodieselcommunity.org to get a background for this subject.

To register for the class:

see www.girlmark.com/tour

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

Best SVO Kit

earnan — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 07:20:56 GMT

Looking for advice going WVO and biodiesel. What needs changed? What kits have been used?
Also found an updated Glow plug relay (bosch) which aids in cold starts. Does anyone have it installed?

posted in Benz W123D - 12 replies

soft car-top carrier that fits a W123?

salamandyr — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 17:26:01 GMT

hi folks,

i've got a 300CD - need to go on a trip and carry more stuff than i can fit in the trunk..
anyone know a car top carrier that will fit on a W123, and handle the window channels with straps, etc?

since i don't have a roof-rack on this one, i'm not sure of the options.

cheers!

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

best glue to use on wood trim?

andy — Sat, 31 May 2008 20:33:16 GMT

i need to re-glue the strip of wood trim on a glove box door. the latch on ours was busted and i found a new one in a junkyard that worked fine, just had the wood peeling loose at the edges. before i jump into it., i was wondering if anybody had a favorite adhesive for this application. gorilla glue seems like it would foam too much, i'm thinking a good contact cement but it might be hard to get in there.

if anybody could tell me how to get the lock slider off of the door (i don't have the key - its from a different car) that could be a big help, since then i could just remove and re-glue the whole thing.

thanks guys!

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

300D turbo complete for sale

michael — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 00:51:56 GMT

ok here goes i have an 1982 that the 240D motor went out on as the radiator hose came off and my other half continued to drive it well you know the rest anyways i bought an 83 300D turbo complete to make the switch but just have not had the time or the right person to tell me all what i need to do to make the switch work, so I am just going to sell the turbo 300D and just find another 240D motor to put back in without any hassles so there ya go its complete with everything including the exhaust to hook onto turbo only thing it does not have is AC unit. I have a picture of it on this site under for sale in Chino Hills if you would like to take a look all for 850 unless any brain y people can tell me how to make switch succesful

mike

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

door locks not working

George — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 16:16:05 GMT

i had my 85 300td wagon serviced, then left town the next mourning, for a long time. the drivers side lock is the only one working, the others wont go up or down, stuck in the up position. i lefted the back cover of fuel tank and the connections looked fine, where else can i check for disconnected vacum hoses? or point me towards a diy page for this

posted in Benz W123D - 4 replies

Getting rusty fasteners loose.

marshallelliott — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 03:39:16 GMT

By the time I'm done owning this Mercedes, I'm going to be an expert on getting rusted parts off.

Today, I was trying to get the hydraulic hose off the rear strut (82 300td). Before I got to the strut, I had to pop up the center floor strip to access the tops of the struts. 5 screws. That means...yep, two are totally rusted in place, strip out. A little drilling, and an easy-out. Yay.

Finally got the nut loose, but apparently, the nut's supposed to spin loosely on the metal hose shoulder. But, of course, it doesn't. I'm going to have to replace the hose anyway, so I'll just cut the whole thing to pieces, but it got me thinking...

Other than a liberal amount of liquid wrench and heat from a butatne or propane torch, does anybody have any other great ideas for loosening rusty and jammed fasteners?

posted in Benz W123D - 3 replies

cold weather

George — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 00:53:29 GMT

I'll be glad to get out of the cold weather, in VA now, and that hardly counts as cold to most folks. I added a heater box to the 85 300td this fall and I really didn't think I'd need it as often as I do. I couldn't say for sure, but it seems like damn near anything under 50 degrees the car wont start without the ole electric plug in. This is very disappointing to me. Don't get me wrong, i still love the car, but seems like a bunch of BS, counter productive in the save energy issue i bought the car for in the first palce...biod, wvo, "sticking it to the man"( big oil )
Would a clogged fliter play a part in teh car not wanting to kick over, or anything else i could maybe do to help wiht this.
On my way to sunny south florida for th erest of the winter in a couple of weeks.

posted in Benz W123D - 8 replies

Holiday Stuff

Doctor_Who — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 19:32:36 GMT

Hey folks, I'm not one for being PC, and I'd like to address the diversity of my Tribe in alphabetical order .

Have a Happy and/or Merry:
Christmas
Hanukkah
Kwanzaa
Las Posadas
Ramadan
Solstice

Your Mod,
Dr.

posted in Benz W123D - 5 replies

Transmission?

Adam — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 16:50:09 GMT

My sister drives a 1985 300D turbodiesel sedan with about 260k miles on it. Runs fine, and has been relatively trouble free for a long time. This past summer, though, I noticed the transmission slipping under hard acceleration (i.e. pedal all the way down). My sister drove it and could find no problems, so we ignored it thinking I'd just pushed it too hard.

Recently though, the automatic transmission's been slipping for my sister when accelerating more gently... it shifts from 1st to 2nd (only slips there if you really push it), then when it goes to 3rd the RPM's go way up before the 3rd gear engages. I'm worried that someday the 3rd gear won't engage and she'll end up doing some expensive damage to the engine, or the car will break down on her. From 3rd to 4th it's usually fine.

I've heard that the '85 has a different transmission than the previous W123 models, and I'm not sure how easy/difficult it is to get a replacement- we're worried that we won't get the car back before the holidays, which would be a disaster (my sister can't drive our other spare car- it's a standard and she was lazy enough not to learn). We're all sitting here hoping it'll be an 'easy fix', but I'm still worried it'll be a $1500+ repair. Are there any things I can have the mechanic check before he replaces the entire transmission?

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

benz w123d spam policy

Doctor_Who — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 17:43:28 GMT

Due to recent incidents on other tribes I moderate I've decided to spread the NO SPAM policy to all of them. It's very complicated and a long read but it goes like this:

Don't SPAM!

If you wanna advert your business or product use a listing and add this tribe to it. I am willing to make concessions on this poilicy if whatever is directly related to the topic of the tribe. But blatant spamming, no.

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

Driving the 300td

earnan — Sat, 07 Apr 2007 15:16:47 GMT

Hi all I just got a 1985 300td for WVO conversion. It's a great car, but I have a couple of questions.

1. It's dog slow off the line and doesn't maintain speed up hills at all. At 204K miles is it time for a rebuild or could this be a fuel injector or other problem?

2. The tranmission shifts out of the low gears at very low RPMs like:
1st 2K-3K
2nd 2.2K-3.2K
3rd 2.5K-4K
4rth Keeps going

posted in Benz W123D - 25 replies

DIESEL FAQ needs your questions

Doctor_Who — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 00:26:00 GMT

Hey folks I'm updating the Diesel FAQ, because it's past due and their are some serious diesel tech changes in the pipeline for 2008. I'm adding a glossary section as well as adding new questions and editing old answers since I've had feedback on previous versions of the FAQ.

I'm gonna post a link to the old FAQ here and once I come up with the latest version of the FAQ I will post it here as well.

I need your feedback and your questions. I'm trying to make the FAQ approachable, but not so simplistic that the answers are only suitable for the most basic user.

My motivation for doing this is that within the past 6 months I've been able to convert 3 of my friends to diesel vehicles and I'd like to expand my FAQ to include things not only related to Diesel and diesel tech, but also diesels in relation to biodiesel and other diesel alternative fuels.

http://tribes.tribe.net/dieselpower/thread/883b635a-f5bb-4ad1-8cd4-1ad93abb6884

Thank you for your time.
The Dr.

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

adding trailer hitch to 123D

taoist — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 21:17:44 GMT

I have an 84 300TD, I've seen aftermarket trailer hitches on the net, but they don't say how they attach. Does anyone know if they bolt on? Are there holes in the frame (I haven't been under my car since my tank strainer clogged in June). Weld on?

This is for a bicycle rack so it only has to hold a couple of hundred pounds.

Any advice / information appreciated.

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

What oil do you use?

earnan — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 07:19:20 GMT

I'm hearing straight 30 weight with high deturgent. Why not a nice synthetic?

posted in Benz W123D - 6 replies

which benz to buy

Jeff — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 06:16:32 GMT

glad I found this board. I know a previous person asked about which benz to buy, but more importantly for me is what "year" to buy. I've heard that 81-85 is the best because of the cast iron engine. But I've also heard that it doesn't matter if you buy after that year. I have ample supply to grease and ready to make the change, using a greasecar conversion. Will any model Benz with a diesel engine work. Can I use an 87, 92, 97...etc. thanks for any info.

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

Best Benz for WVO conversion?

salamandyr — Thu, 28 Dec 2006 16:45:54 GMT

k, so i'm itching to run WVO / SVO in a deisel.

what is the best power/performance/price combo diesel mercedes out there to look for ? a 240 series? a 300TD?

i.e. if you guys could buy one now, what would you get?

cheers,
andrew

posted in Benz W123D - 24 replies

Diesel to VO Conversion Slave!!!

Roman — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 21:31:46 GMT

Dear sisters and brothers,
I would love to be your conversion slave. I work for free and only need a place to throw up a tent or a sleeping bag. Nourishment is also accepted, but i am getting ahead of my self. I am very mechanically inclined, as i do personal work on a '83 300D Mercedes, and have done so on a few previous non diesel vehicle. My moral and energy is always high and positive, and I work until the job is done right. I am willing a positive and creative environment where I may be able to learn the process on any diesel vehicle. The desire to learn arises from being resourceful in using a waste product as fuel and to eventually convert my own car. I may also have the pleasure of taking the skill to South Africa in February, where I will be creating dwellings out of clay and earth. Let’s enjoy each other!

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

Your ride

Doctor_Who — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 02:03:33 GMT

Looking for pictures of members rides. So if you dont have one of your MB posted here please do, I like to change the main foto on this tribe to showcase yours. Also if you have a veggie/svo/wvo/biodiesel system installed please post fotos of it and a description.

posted in Benz W123D - 3 replies

Need advice on buying a 1984 300SD

Taylor — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 23:57:58 GMT

Hi. I'm thinking of buying this 300SD with 175,000 miles on it. It's a beautiful car, in great condition and the owner seems like a very honest person. I know he has put a great deal of work and live into the car but the asking price seems high for a vehicle that old. How can I know how much I should be paying for the car? I tried to look it up on Kelly Blue Book but they don't even have data on cars before 1987. If someone could point me in the right direction, I would be eternally grateful.

posted in Benz W123D - 8 replies

window rubber?

salamandyr — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 19:25:57 GMT

hi folks,

the rubber on my 300CD is (for the most part) in excellent shape, but the window/door rubber has shrunk on both doors, such that i have a gap that is about an inch wide on each side. i really don't want to pay hundreds of dollars for parts and go through all the hassle at this point of replacing them just to fix two small gaps.

so.. does anyone know if any of the cheaper aftermarket rubber sets (which i've heard don't really fit well) might be "good enough" for me to cut an inch piece off of and patch my gaps for the time being? or are there any other options for making these fixes? i know the best solution would be to buy replacement parts and do the whole job, but i'd just like to keep some wind out without spending $300 :)

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

Good independent Benz diesel mechanic in LA?

salamandyr — Fri, 12 Jan 2007 04:58:46 GMT

anyone know a good MBZ savvy mechanic in the LA area?
there are a lots around, but anyone local who can recommend a specific one?

cheers,
andrew

posted in Benz W123D - 15 replies

Transmission Mod

Kitesailor — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 22:43:13 GMT

Only the '85 300D actually starts in first gear. I have heard that it is possible to modify the older transmissions to do this too. Anybody know how?

posted in Benz W123D - 7 replies

selling parts

3dogs — Wed, 07 Mar 2007 16:55:03 GMT

I'm selling parts from my totaled 1983 300d turbo white with blue interior. I'm in 90019 near Olympic and Fairfax.

posted in Benz W123D - 4 replies

Brand New Snow Tires!

Ollie — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 21:16:18 GMT

My partner and I just recenetly bought an '82 300td while passing through Colorado. It was too good a deal to pass up and we plan on converting it ASAP to run on veggie oil. The nice woman who sold us the car threw in four brand new(read:300 miles or so) studed snow tires with the Benz rims and everything. We simply don't have the room and or necessity to justify keeping them. Anyone in or around Colorado interested? Message me. Or call 616 970 0928.

Peace

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

books

George — Wed, 04 Jul 2007 03:07:03 GMT

hey now
just got a 1985 300TDT, and i love it, it's in great shape, garaged in Fl. It has 247k, i've added about 2k of that, the last few fill ups have been with a bit of B100 added, making it about B15 probably. Anyways, I ahave been looking in some audo stores for a book and no luck yet. Any suggestions? I plan on doing what i can myself, which is limited, but i still want to read up on the engine and other items specific to this car/engine.
Thanks

posted in Benz W123D - 4 replies

Howdy!! I have a 77, 300D running on wvo from a local mexi restaurant.. norcal.. lets talk!

top of Cali Steve — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 21:33:52 GMT

my 1st diesel.. diggin' it.. but a learning thing for sure... talk to me!! -Steve

posted in Benz W123D - 5 replies

Trailer hitch

8cemal8 — Sat, 09 Dec 2006 22:41:48 GMT

I was just wondering if anyone has successfully mounted a trailer hitch on their 300D. It's not easy to find a prefab hitch and was wondering if anyone has had success fabricating one and where you may have attached the hitch to the vehicle. I guess the vehicle is rated for about 1600 lbs towing and I just picked up a egg-shaped Scamp trailer that my friend helped me tow with his 240 D- no problema. Thanks!

posted in Benz W123D - 4 replies

rack for a 300CD?

salamandyr — Tue, 24 Apr 2007 21:12:38 GMT

anyone know a roof rack or on-trunk rack that will fit a 300CD?

even a temp one would be fine - i need to carry a bunch of 5 foot poles.

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

Help. Stuck sliding roof.

Kitesailor — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 01:32:11 GMT

My sliding roof is stuck half way. Will not move. The fuse is fine but no go. Anyone know anything about the sliding roof on a 84 300CD? The dash rocker switch is surrounded by that nice wood, and I am not sure how to access those switches. It is suppose to rain on and off all week.

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

engine swap

3dogs — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 00:55:41 GMT

I am considering swapping the engine from my 300D Turbo 83 to a non Turbo 81. Two shops gave me a quote for that. The shop I hear is the best won't do the job because the linkage as it goes through firewall is different on the two cars. Anyone have any experience with this? thanks.

posted in Benz W123D - 3 replies

Help With Dash Vent Repair?

Kitesailor — Sat, 10 Mar 2007 16:40:40 GMT

One of my dash vents has just fallen back inside the dash. Does anyone know how to fix this?

Photo posted to show problem.

Thanks,

Michael

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

totaled

3dogs — Sun, 18 Feb 2007 23:17:41 GMT

My 1983 300D Turbo got totaled on Friday. I'm thinking I'm not going to find another in very good condition for less than $4,000. Anyone have any suggestions? So far I've looked at Craig's List. I found a few wrecks that I can combine into one working car. I know the 300D gets less desirable in the late 80s. What years should I not consider? Would it be reasonable to transfer the engine from my wreck to a 1981 with no engine? Does it matter if the 1981 was not a turbo and mine is? Is there something I can read instead of asking all these dumb questions?

Also, anyone have tips on dealing with the insurance company to try to maximize the settlement on a classic car?

posted in Benz W123D - 14 replies

w123 Valve Adjustment

Kitesailor — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 21:46:43 GMT

I have heard that this motor ('84 300 CD Turbo) needs periodic valve adjustments. Can someone supply details?

posted in Benz W123D - 7 replies

reasonable repair rates?

salamandyr — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 04:55:56 GMT

i need a few repairs on my '83 300CDT, and one mechanic gave me the following quotes.
i get a good feeling about the shop and was there for a while when they were inspecting the car (got to see them work with customers for a couple hours, and really respected how they work).

i'm sure they do solid work.
but i'm a broke student, so what do you folks think of these prices?

- ball joint seal $400
- power steering box oil leak. $575
- power steering pump oil leak $375
- tire rod $100

those are the things i don't think i can do, but are any actually managable for a casual mechanic?
some things on my list to fix myself, if anyone is curious:

- tach is not reading
- cigar lighter needs to be replaced
- new door seal on the left side
- couple of lightbulbs

i think i can handle those.
but for the earlier list - do those prices sound reasonable?

cheers,
andrew

posted in Benz W123D - 8 replies

got my first one! :)

salamandyr — Sat, 03 Feb 2007 06:18:13 GMT

hi there guys,

i just paid for my first W123 - a 1983 300CD, black on palomino. i'm picking it up tomorrow - i'll post pics soon :)

now, does anyone know a good place to get a basic toolkit that will fill the gaps in my toolbag specific to mercedes diesels?
e.g. valve wrenches, vacuum testers, etc. or even have a good list assembled of all the things to have on hand to do basic maintenance?

cheers,
andrew

posted in Benz W123D - 5 replies

sexiest model

ninaeleanor — Tue, 07 Sep 2004 05:22:05 GMT

Hi All-

Curious about acquiring one of these pups for a supersize-fry conversion... though painfully in love with the SL series, which is sadly all non-deisel. Most of the D models I've seen are much clunkier in styling than the SLs... though I have seen a few diesels that seem earlier, that look cute.

Any suggestions?

posted in Benz W123D - 10 replies

'84 300 CD Turbo SVO Conversion Photos

Kitesailor — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 21:44:41 GMT

This 300 CD was veg converted in November '05 and is still running sweet.

I also have a '04 Sprinter Van that was veg converted in November of '06.

'84 300 CD Turbo: http://rides.webshots.com/album/551646400cLdXHc

'04 Sprinter: http://rides.webshots.com/album/556331533qrflNi

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

I have a Benz... can I join? And another question...

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 01:50:41 GMT

Hi, I have a 1972 350 SL convertable. At what age does a car become a classic or vintage - 10? 20 years?

Thanks!
Ahna
http://ArtCreated.com

posted in Benz W123D - 3 replies

my wagon leaks!

mamabotanica — Sat, 24 Jan 2004 01:27:24 GMT

The last rainstorm we had there was a puddle behind my drivers seat. What a mess! I thought parking it facing down on a slope would help as I had noticed a bunch of squirrel/mouse refuse stuck near where the hood connects. Thought the problem was solved until the last little rainstorm and same thing so it doesn't seem to be flowing from hood. Any suggestions?
Joan

posted in Benz W123D - 10 replies

pricey 300D, or..?

salamandyr — Wed, 10 Jan 2007 21:26:33 GMT

hi folks,

diligently sorting through hundreds of ads on the internet looking for 300D W123's.
found a few that look interesting in the $3300-$4000 price range, mostly 1983-1985's, all of em Turbo, and most of em from 150K to 250K miles. i've got a few appointments to look at em. :)

i just found one really nice looking one for $5500, but it has 312,560 miles. i know that these engines are solid for 500K+ miles, but i'm a wee bit worried about the 300K mark, i guess :) i'm gonna want to put about 20K miles a year on my new mercedes, maybe more.

thanks for any advice,
andrew

posted in Benz W123D - 5 replies

any different in trunk size between 300D and 300CD?

salamandyr — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 03:24:01 GMT

so... does the coupe have a larger trunk, or is it just a different B column and door?

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

tires

3dogs — Fri, 05 Jan 2007 02:38:33 GMT

What are the best tires for a 1983 300D? The online services to find tires that I found so far don't go back to 1983. Follow up question: where did you get them?

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

leather color match

3dogs — Wed, 27 Dec 2006 18:29:51 GMT

I'm getting a wheelskin (http://www.wheelskins.com/original_.php#) and want to match the color of my blue interior. There are three choices of blue, cobalt, navy and sea. Does anyone know which is closest? Thanks.

p.s. I'm having samples sent, but I thought I might get an answer in the mean time.

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

early 70's diesel injection systems

hazmattous — Sun, 31 Dec 2006 04:11:56 GMT

I have a 74 240D that gets around 20mpg bio diesel in city driving. Anyone know about the old MB diesel injection systems? I think I could possibly have it adjusted wrong though don't know what to look for. I have a CD rom manual that is ok but not good for trouble shooting.

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

looking at a 1979 240D - any buying advice?

salamandyr — Tue, 03 Oct 2006 14:20:52 GMT

hi folks,

i'm going to look at this car in a few days:
http://losangeles.craigslist.org/lac/car/215310936.html

but i'm not that familiar with Mercedes in general :)
planning on an eventual WVO conversion, so the Deisel caught my eye.

any advice on things i should watch out for when looking at this?

cheers,
andrew

posted in Benz W123D - 12 replies

Holiday Greetings

Doctor_Who — Sun, 24 Dec 2006 23:31:52 GMT

Please accept with no obligation, implied or implicit, my best wishes for an
environmentally conscious, socially responsible, low stress, non-addictive, gender
neutral, celebration of the winter solstice holiday, practiced within the most enjoyable
traditions of the religious persuasion of your choice, or secular practices of your
choice, with respect for the religious/secular persuasions and/or traditions of others,
or their choice not to practice religious or secular traditions at all and a fiscally
successful, personally fulfilling and medically uncomplicated recognition of the onset
of the generally accepted calendar year 2000, but not without due respect for the
calendars of choice of other cultures whose contributions to society have helped make
America great (not to imply that America is necessarily greater than any other country
or is the only "AMERICA" in the western hemisphere), and without regard to the
race, creed, color, age, physical disability, religious faith, choice of computer platform,
or sexual preference of the wishee.

Legal Disclaimer: By accepting this agreement, you are accepting these terms.

This greeting is subject to clarification or withdrawal. It is freely transferable with no
alteration to the original greeting. It implies no promise by the wisher to actually
implement any of the wishes for her/himself or others, and is void where prohibited by
law, and is revocable at the sole discretion of the wisher.

This wish is warranted to perform as expected within the usual application of good
tidings for a period of one year, or until the issuance of a subsequent holiday greeting,
whichever comes first, and warranty is limited to replacement of this wish or issuance
of a new wish at the sole discretion of the wisher.

Sincerely,
The Dr.

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

glow plugs out?

Adam — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 23:48:01 GMT

My sister's 1985 300D sedan wouldn't start the other morning. She said that the light for the glow plug flashed on and off (which it usually does).. but... she couldn't get the starter to catch and didn't have time to play with it since she was running late. On other cold mornings she said she typically has to hold the starter for 'a while' (maybe 10 seconds or so) and then maybe it'll start the first time, otherwise after a few tries it usually starts. I found this a bit strange, especially because it's only been in the 20's and 30's (hasn't even gotten really cold yet!), and so I made an appointment at the mechanic for her.

Of course now she's annoyed with me for making an appointment because it will cost her money, but I told her that the car needs to be maintained and if she wanted something that wouldn't cost her much she should've bought a Toyota Corolla.

Now, I realise you guys aren't going to be able to help make my sister any less annoyed... but... I'm curious to know if this behaviour is normal with an old 300D. My mom drives a '95 E300 diesel, and it stays in the garage, plugged in, and always has- we've never, ever had trouble starting it. Unfortunately there's no room in the garage for the 300D, so it doesn't get the luxury of being able to be plugged in. Should we be getting the glow plugs checked out, or, is holding the starter and hoping it'll start on a cold day, normal?

Thanks for any help.

-Adam

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

Turn signals stopped working?

meander — Thu, 21 Dec 2006 20:38:08 GMT

We had an interesting glitch and solution with our 85 300D. The other evening the turn signals stopped working with no warning. The lever was fine, but no lamps and no indicator on the dash. I thought maybe a fuse, but the other stuff on that circuit was fine, and the fuse seemed okay. I found a shop in the neighborhood that specializes in old Benz', and gave them a call. The guy at the shop told me to go out to the car, turn on the ignition, and then hit the hazard lights. Then he told me to turn the hazards off, and try the turn signals again...I'll be damned, they came right on. He said that it was a contact issue and that hitting the hazards usually takes care of it. Since he didn't have me come to the shop and charge me $100 to fix it, he is my new best friend and new favorite mechanic...Rob, down at Benz Friendz in Georgetown, if you're interested. Just thought I'd share in case the same thing happens to any of you folks.

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

locks

andy — Tue, 09 May 2006 21:39:33 GMT

our '81 240D has a recurring problem with the auto-locks on the doors. when they operate properly, turning the key in the drivers door will lock or unlock all locks on the vehicle, trunk included. however, on our car this seems to go out from time to time, requiring all locks to be opened/closed individually. so far it always somehow gets inself back to normal after a few days. anyone have any idea what is going on here, or what to do about it? common problem?

posted in Benz W123D - 10 replies

insurance

3dogs — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 21:17:38 GMT

Does anyone have an opinion about the amount an insurance company might pay for a 1983 300D with 180,000 miles after being "totaled" in an accident? I'm trying to decide if I should get comprehensive and collision insurance with a $1,000 deductible. Edmund's (http://www.edmunds.com/products/tmv/used/epl/UTMVController?tmvAction=step4) puts a value of about $1,200 but I see similar cars for sale in LA for about twice that. Thanks.

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

varnish

3dogs — Tue, 12 Dec 2006 21:03:11 GMT

Has anyone tried to fix or repair the varnish on the interior wood? I wonder if there is a varnish that would match? Thanks.

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

Looking for my 2nd Benz

simon_p — Sat, 09 Dec 2006 20:57:50 GMT

Looking for a diesel for commuting instead of using my SL, want the better gas mileage, lower maintenence and most especially the protection in an accident considering how most morons drive.

My first choice is a 300SD although I am considering a 300D and 300TDs, my preference is for a turbo since it will be mainly freeway driving. Any thoughts, suggestions, advice? This wont be my first benz obviously but it will be my first diesel of any sort.

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

Parts and help references

Thu, 07 Dec 2006 12:55:23 GMT

I own a 1981 300D, 1985 300D, and 1999 E300 so I have haad my share of parts purcahsing and repairs. Here is a list of where I get parts and help.

alleurasianautoparts.com *Parts
europartsdirect.com *Parts
importeccatalog.com *Parts
performanceproducts4benz.com *Parts
mercedesshop.com *Parts and the best Mercedes Diesel forum

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

cleaning behind emblem

3dogs — Sun, 03 Dec 2006 02:35:49 GMT

The 300D I just bought was really dirty, covered with some sort of residue. I've got it all clean, except behind the words "TURBO DIESEL". I've used a toothbrush and dremel. I'm considering removing the emblem temporarily, but that seems like a headache. Any suggestions. Thanks.

posted in Benz W123D - 3 replies

sourcing parts

andy — Thu, 18 May 2006 19:33:07 GMT

specifically im looking for a window seal gasket for the rear passenger side, and for a brown floormat for the drivers seat, but id also love any reccomendations on the best places for parts in general. i recently moved to eastern mass and havent found much here yet besides the green grease monkey guys http://www.greengreasemonkey.com/ . if anyone has any reccomendations for online sources, or any horror stories about who not to buy from, (or just some parts to get rid of for an '81 240D) i would love to know.

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

Starter replacement

deniziadigatti — Mon, 20 Nov 2006 17:22:06 GMT

I just did mine, and it was rather tough. Do any of you have starter stories or tips?

posted in Benz W123D - 3 replies

replacement speakers

3dogs — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 02:45:10 GMT

I just got a 1983 300D. The rear 5x8 ADS speakers seem to be shot. I assume these are aftermarket. Can anyone confirm this? I also have a ADS amplifier which I also assume is aftermarket, but who knows, not me.

Does it make much of a difference what speakers I install as long as they fit?

The front speakers may also need to be replaced. Crutchfied says they are 4" speakers. Is this true? Again, what should I replace them with? Thanks.

posted in Benz W123D - 3 replies

Extremely well-cared-for 240D engine with 60,000 miles on it and automatic transmission

David — Tue, 30 May 2006 22:52:25 GMT

Parts from my 240D that I destroyed. :( I was thinking I might put the engine and tranny in another 240D because the engine is like new but I'm not sure that's going to happen any time soon. The engine and tranny were very well cared for by John Uyeyama at the Best Shop in Oakland CA. (That means I spent a lot of money on that car). $1000 OBO gets both the engine and the transmission. I've also got the seats (pristine condition basically) if someone is interested. The driver's seat looks like it just came out of the factory (had it redone) and the other seats haven't been sat in nearly as much and are pretty close.
David
(510) 414-3283

posted in Benz W123D - 6 replies

glow plugs

andy — Mon, 30 Oct 2006 23:47:56 GMT

the light in the dash for the glowplugs on our 240D has stopped lighting up, and the car complains a little about starting up. most likely, the glow plug(s) have gone.

first - is there an easy / good way to confirm that this is the case, and that it is not simply a lightbulb in the dash gone out?

secondly - how hard is it to change them out myself, and where would i find the part at?

thanks!
andy

posted in Benz W123D - 4 replies

Looking at a rusty 300TD...

marshallelliott — Mon, 07 Aug 2006 15:39:16 GMT

Hi!
I'm looking at an 82 300TD that looks like a good ride except for quite a bit of rust. I didn't do an extensive probe underneath and I don't know enough about what the really critical areas that you don't want any rust on (like, say, top of struts). Anybody out there know where to look to determine whether it's worth it ? (The car is prob. $1500-2000)

What else is good to look at in an old Mercedes before buying it (other than the usual obvious stuff)?

Thanks !

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

Best repair manual?

marshallelliott — Wed, 16 Aug 2006 19:33:31 GMT

Anybody have any recommendations for a repair manual for a 300TD ?

I've only heard that Chilton's are worthless. Haynes seems to cover fewer models, so it must be better--any others?

posted in Benz W123D - 9 replies

funny thing happened

hazmattous — Mon, 25 Sep 2006 22:24:34 GMT

About a month ago I was cranking my steering around to make a U turn from the curb when I heard a nasty pop from under the hood. I did nothing since I was stressed out already and the car (74' W115 240D) drove ok though had a bit more play in the steering. I decided not to drive much till I found out what was going on. Yesterday I got my car up on a lift an noticed a 10mm bolt holding the steering box sheared off! WTF This kind of thing is not supposed to happen to a mercedes! The end of the bolt was in a casting of course. I tried a screw extractor couldn't get it to work so I opted to drill it out and thread it for 12mm. It worked and the car is fine though I could have got into a serious accident if I left it alone. Moral of the story is that if some of the bolts holding your steering box on are loose you could possible shear off the third bolt when cranking on your steering wheel so when you get a chance check to see if your steering box is on tight. This was probably a freak accident I have never heard of this happening to anyone else.

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

Check your oil cooler hoses.

marshallelliott — Mon, 25 Sep 2006 01:01:42 GMT

Well, since my life may very well be useful as a warning to others, I pass on this advice to you today: check your oil cooler hoses, particularly the clearance between the top hose coming out of the oil cooler and the belt driving the power steering unit.

What happened to my 82 300TD:
A small oil leak began and grew and grew, until oil was everywhere. It looked like the whole bottom of the engine was leaking oil--multiple puddles all over! By the time I limped along the last 30-40 miles home by putting in oil...a quart every 10 miles. Ugh!

So today I finally got to looking at it, and my upper oil cooler hose had a big fat hole cut into it from the power steering belt. So the oil was gurgling out, right on to the belt, which was flinging it everywhere. Everywhere. Ugh.

Apparently, this is a common problem with these 123's, usually caused by old engine mount(s) that need to be replaced too (i.e. engine mounts go, causing engine to sag & change position of belts & hoses in relationship to each other...).

A mechanic says that the clearance between the hose and the belt should be about the size of your index finger. Maybe more if you have a small hand!

So, don't repeat my problems by looking at your hose/belt clearance. A temporary fix could easily be accomplished by pulling the hoses out of the way with a zip tie or wire perhaps ?

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

leaky 123

andy — Mon, 31 Jul 2006 20:11:16 GMT

i was trying to flush mama botanica out to talk more about her leaky wagon, but no go. so, here goes: weve got a '81 240D, just moved it from new mexico to boston and discovered leaks. front windsheild leaks into the passenger side, water pools in back passenger side foot well. rear glass leaks into trunk, drivers side.

im curious who else has dealt with this, and how?

weve been applying armor-all to the window seal in hopes of livening it up and making a better seal, and have been considering a bead of some sort of silicone around the window seal. we might spring for someone to take the glass of and re-install it, but are worried about the possibilty of rust (its mostly a texas / new mexico car, so its in pretty good shape, but..) and afraid to get involved in a lot of bodywork to rebuild the area.

anyhow, any tips?

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

Veg my Benz

Franklin — Wed, 01 Mar 2006 17:25:12 GMT

Hey Y'all,

Recently completed this video where we converted a 300D to run on Veg-Oil
check it out: http://vegmyride.tv

posted in Benz W123D - 3 replies

Stripped nut on starter. Oops.

marshallelliott — Sun, 27 Aug 2006 21:27:34 GMT

Howdy, howdy.
I'm out on the road with my 82 300TD, and the starter has decided to depart this world, so no starting for now. Took it to a Pep Boys mechanic (I know, I know, but--it's Sunday...) who couldn't get off the top nut on the starter (the one that's hard to get to) because it is stripped.

Has anyone ever fixed this problem? Any ideas on how to get that nut off now? There's not a lot of space to get around it. Any recommendations for Mercedes mechanics in the greater Salt Lake/Ogden area?

Thanks!

posted in Benz W123D - 4 replies

star emblem on hood stolen

andy — Mon, 31 Jul 2006 20:14:45 GMT

just walked out the other day and noticed someone had snapped off our hood emblem. honestly it made me laugh, i thought the benz emblem around the neck thing went out of style in like 1987. oh well. some fashion statement taking the hood ornament from a 25 year old car. id be suprised if whoever took it is that old yet.

anybody else ever had theirs stolen? any interesting theft prevention systems? like a mild electric current!?

looks like mbparts.com has new ones, but im reluctant to spend any money replacing it until im confident it wont get taken again. just seems silly.

posted in Benz W123D - 5 replies

Vacuum pump going?

painter_steve — Wed, 02 Aug 2006 06:17:34 GMT

How could I tell if my vacuum pump was going as opposed to maybe just having a bad line here or there?

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

220D advice

andy — Sun, 06 Aug 2006 13:30:20 GMT

hi there -
been sharing a 240D with the ladyfriend for a while, and now were looking into a second ride.. ive been seeing some 220Ds on the market here and boy are they cute. im curious if anyone has experience with them, if they have any issued much different than a W123, how easy or hard it is to find parts for them (on the us market from '68-'73), and if its managable or a nightmare to own a car that old as your daily (well, couple times a week) driver.
thanks!

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

remember to adjust your valves!

hazmattous — Tue, 14 Mar 2006 18:59:42 GMT

Just a PSA for you all
ADJUST YOUR VALVES!
older diesel mercedes do not have hydraulic valves meaning every 3000 or so miles you should check and adjust your valves. It is easy to do although can be dirty. Consult your repair manual if you don't have one please buy one even if you can't or won't work on your car perhaps a friend of yours can be bribed to do so. My old 240D just last weekend started making an awful tapping noise. Sure enough cylinder one had a very loose exhaust valve. All the other valves were too tight. If your valves get too tight they may stop closing meaning your engine may not start. If your valves are too loose then your engine will make a lot of noise and not be too happy. Change your oil and oil filter too while you are at it.

posted in Benz W123D - 4 replies

350SDL

andy — Thu, 15 Jun 2006 17:50:26 GMT

i know im a bit off topic (not a w123..) but my sweetie and i are in the market for a second car (she has a 81 240D now) and saw this ad http://boston.craigslist.org/car/171283803.html for a 1990 350SDL on craigslist. anyone know anything about these cars? how do they compare?
id love any advice, both on general drivability and reliability, and from a WVO / biodiesel perspective.
thanks!

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

New Moderator - The Doctor!

David — Tue, 30 May 2006 22:47:03 GMT

Ladies, Gentlemen, and Diesels - please join me in welcoming the Doctor to the position of Moderator. Anybody who commutes in a UNIMOG is worthy of some respect. :P
thanks,
David G.

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

Please Read - Nominate a new Moderator

David — Tue, 14 Mar 2006 10:37:11 GMT

Hello fellow 123ers -
so one might imagine my shock (and, I guess, quiet pride) to see how this tribe has grown! Basically I started it as a joke, thinking I must be one of the few, the proud, and the very, very, very, very, very slow. ^_^ But the 123 is a really great piece of engineering, and probably one of the classiest cars of it's era (which, to be fair, is not really saying much). I loved my '82 240D right until the moment I rammed it into a larger, heavier transportation device with a tow hitch. And, I really do miss it. Especially when I think about how much it was worth (about 60,000 miles on the new engine with a cherry interior and basically no cracks on the dash). While I had a brief Tribe.net addiction in 2003, I didn't log on for more than a year, and discovered that this tribe had taken on a life of it's own. I don't feel as if I have really done much moderation, and I think it is fair that I tender my resignation as moderator of benz w123d. After all, now I have a 190E 2.6 and it runs on gasoline (*GASP*). Yes, I know. It, however, is quite capable of the terror that is the Treasure Island onramp. (I think my 240D would have been classified as a public health hazard on the same onramp). In any case, I am accepting nominations for the moderator post for this tribe. A new moderator will be appointed by May 2st, 2006. Thank you for all your support in growing this tribe.

posted in Benz W123D - 5 replies

eastern mass mechanic

andy — Tue, 09 May 2006 21:36:23 GMT

hi there -

recently relocated and wondering if anyone knows a good mechanic in or around lowell, ma? weve got a weird grinding noise coming from the back of our '81 240D (CV's?, rear diff?) and need some help. any advice or contacts would be appreicated.

thanks!

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

anyone need an engine or transmission?

Sat, 24 Sep 2005 01:19:11 GMT

i am in seattle area. recentlly bent the frame on my 77 300d in a frontal
collision..ruined my bumper, hood, front fenders..radiator and fan..but i had
just driven this car all the way up from austin,tx! ran great, had a mechanic
tell me that he thought the engine had just been rebuilt..tranny shifted awesome also..

i could fix this car and drive it again..but perhaps someone would like to
buy my engine and/or transmission as a spare for their awesomely straight
300d. if so let me know and maybe we can talk about it.

posted in Benz W123D - 3 replies

Antenna Removal

deniziadigatti — Tue, 17 Jan 2006 19:15:17 GMT

Can any of you tell me how you remove the antenna assembly? I have looked and tried turning the nut on the bottom of the antenna, with no luck. I have not been able to figure out how the thing is fastened on from underneath. Have any of you done thise before? Any insight? Thank you.

DDG

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

5 cyl turbo engine for sale

hazmattous — Sun, 12 Jun 2005 22:37:40 GMT

I have an early 80's 300 Turbo Diesel that has 30,000 miles on a rebuild. I'm asking $ 800, obo anyone here need it? I've posted it here first. It came from a totaled car and the engine won't fit in my W115 chassis, Damn! So now you can buy it and put it in any 123 chassis MBZ. Upgrade your W123 240D to a screaming stickshift speedster.

posted in Benz W123D - 4 replies

Aftermarket Turbo

painter_steve — Mon, 16 Jan 2006 23:49:48 GMT

I love my 240, but it's slow as hell on Portland's hills. I know I can get an aftermarket turbo for an American vehicle pretty easily, but what about my 240D? Should I just get used to it? I get conflicting info from Google.

posted in Benz W123D - 2 replies

Diesel

Doctor_Who — Mon, 19 Dec 2005 07:51:51 GMT

Hey kids [and old farts] I wanted to drop in and do a little shameless advertising for my new tribe.

Its called Diesel and/or Diesel Power and its going to deal with all the new advancement in diesel technologies and alternative diesel fuels expanding on both renewable and non-renewable fuel sources.

Since the rise of the price of a barrell of oil and the well muffled general panic that is coming primarily from Suadi Arabia we are looking at a energy shortage. Nobody knows exactly when, but the oil companies themselves are starting to look for alternatives, considering it was the oil companies themselves who had stiffled any other alternatives this is a good sign.

Unfortunatly some of the solutions in the pipeline for the future, arent necessarily the cleanest most environmentally friendly options available and some others take waste products and turn them into clean burning alternatives. They do however address the need for cheap energy and if they can be scaled more easily than cleaner alternatives we could find ourselves on the same pickle in a different barrell.

The purpose of the tribe is to be informative, so that we all become better informed on what is out there as these other not so clean alternatives pop up. I have some really interesting {or at least I think its interesting} stuff posted already as well as have some contributions coming in.

I think we all know that bio-diesel will not be able to sustain our demands for fuel. But would you believe you could make diesel from waste woodchips and mix in a little bio-d for lubricity and whammo, you have a clean fuel and you help reduce the waste stream.

Anyways I hope that you will join, there are many very interesting topics to discuss and information to share.

http://tribes.tribe.net/dieselpower

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

window seals

brynarose — Thu, 08 Sep 2005 04:50:14 GMT

front and rear window seals: mine are bus' and need replacing to prevent our friend The Rust from launching leprosy on my vehicle... german car service in honolulu quoted me on $400/window (i'm talking front view and rear view windows, not sides). what? seriously? anybody got a mercedes trustworthy body/mechanic that wouldn't be so much... or am i delirious and foolish? is this price crazy high cause it's a top of the line mechanic. or is that just the $$$$ of the game?

posted in Benz W123D - 5 replies

Great 123 links!

jeffe — Fri, 09 Sep 2005 20:23:16 GMT

http://skinnerbox.steaky.org/Service/W123/Index/617Tindex.html

Shop manuals on PDF

http://dieselgiant.com/mercedes_diesel_maintenance_tips.htm

Maintenance tips

http://boostnbenz.1baddsm.com/DIY/

More maintenance tips

posted in Benz W123D - 0 replies

Hawaii Biodiesel Tribe

brynarose — Thu, 08 Sep 2005 04:23:37 GMT

okay, i no like put lots of redundant tribes out there, however a specific way to connect with bio-diesel folks in Hawai'i would be super helpful to me and maybe you other kama'aina. i feel like we're in our own little world and a one stop way to access local resources would be awesome (especially since i'm so new to this i haven't even had a chance yet to find the bio diesel to put in my newly bought benz). we have a different set of rust/temperature/fuel variables happening here than on the mainland. not to mention access to parts. of course this is not specific to any one island or town. cause i know us oahu folks got alot to learn from yu maui guys, and big island guys wachu doin ova dea? so let's cwapurate. heehee. i promise no more transcribed pidgin. i goin try. fo real.

i'm gonna put it out there so... e komo mai! it's called
"Hawaii Biodiesel" try search um.

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

good medhanic in east bay?

mAlAkAi — Fri, 11 Feb 2005 20:39:07 GMT

i just bought a 1981 mercedes and the driver window wont roll down. there is also a leak in the sunroof which eye think eye have tackled. want to get some minor electrical problems tackled and get it fixed up. i am about to convert to veggie and want it to be my main dependable vehicle. any sugestions?

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

Parts list for 240d WVO conversion.

louiscsr — Fri, 18 Mar 2005 20:21:46 GMT

Does anyone have a list of parts, and instructions, needed to convert a W123 240D to Waste Veggie Oil / Biodiesel?

I want to convert my 1983, but I do not have the money or inclination to spend almost $1000 for a kit, where most of the parts just do not seem that expensive.

Thanks for your help!

Peace,

--Louis, Rex

posted in Benz W123D - 5 replies

Engine Replacement/ upgrade

hazmattous — Wed, 09 Feb 2005 23:49:49 GMT

My plan is to replace a 240 D engine with a 300 D turbo. Why? I hate automatic transmissions and have a 300 turbo ready for transplant. I was wondering if anyone here has any knowledge on compatibility between engines.

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

300cd advise

jeffe — Mon, 22 Nov 2004 22:37:17 GMT

Our '84 300cd is leaking oil from the hoses that run to and from the oil cooler mounted next to the radiator. Unfortunately, it seems that I would have to unmount the engine to replace the old hoses (they are mostly metal). I'm wondering if this oil coler is necessary and if anyone has ever just removed it and plugged the holes when the lines come out of the oil filter.

I actually think that the lines are leaking because the cooler is clogged and the increased pressure has no where else to go.

We're running biodiesel now and feeling pretty good about the car with the exception of the oil leaking.

Advice?

Thanks in advance.

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

Little dilemma.

Ashey — Wed, 15 Sep 2004 00:06:16 GMT

So which do I keep, and which do I sell?

The Black:
1982 240D, Stick shift, manual windows, manual climate control, power sunroof, super tight interior (new seats) and body, creamy original black paint, 16" accessory wheels, not a lick of leakage anywhere, ~250K miles. Seems to pull plenty strong, I love the stick shift, and I've always wanted a big BLACK german sedan. ;) People allege 30MPG.

The Gold:
1980 300D, rebuilt automatic tranny, aftermarket turbo (just rebuilt), power windows, cruise control, bypassed automatic climate control, power sunroof, new tires, new gold paint, interior's good with rare orangey/umber MBTex, new steering bits, new upper control arms, premium sound system with powered subwoofer. 217K miles. Oh, and it uses a little oil.

I've converted it to run on any of: straight vegetable oil, biodiesel, OR diesel... there's a 24gallon heated second fuel tank in the trunk. It's a pretty tight conversion and emminently reliable. I've gone on several long roadtrips in it and it runs great. Get's about 20MPG.

Comments?

Me, I'm leaning towards keeping the black one, assuming the shakedown runs I have planned for it go smoothly... While I'm in love with the gold one, and have put a lot of my soul into it, I think it's a piece of work/art/activism that's ready to go out into the world. If I sell it, I'll be including support in the deal, and giving a thorough training session/materials to the buyer. The black one, I'll convert and keep. Sounds like it might need some clutch work at some point, but I can do that myself. Anyway, I'm pondering and hoping for some input. Thanks!

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

need a new front end

mamabotanica — Sun, 08 Feb 2004 17:13:02 GMT

I know we are a small tribe but perhaps we are wide. A hit and run driver crashed into my wagon in the garage (drove through a load of bushes in the front of my house to do it). Both front panels above the wheels and the hood and the lights on both side are crunched (pushed my car into my roommates car so it got it from both ends). So far it appears that panels and passenger ball joint (snapped) are the damage but the real estimate will be seen when we get it to a body shop.
A friend suggested finding a 300 TD that got junked that still has a nice front end and buying it.
Any suggestions from anyone here?
Joan

posted in Benz W123D - 6 replies

Sunroof...

Fred — Fri, 21 May 2004 02:44:54 GMT

Hiya,
I've got a 1975 Mercedes Benz 300D (300,000 miles and currently running on Straight Vegitable Oil). Anyway, things are running very smoothly, and I'm happy to say, my biggest problem is that my sunroof doesn't work! I hear the motor running when I hit the switch but it doesn't open. I suspect it has fallen off the track. I'd love some advice how to open up the roof so that I can see what is wrong. Does anyone have any advice or websites you could point me to?

posted in Benz W123D - 4 replies

Air leak in veg-oil fuel system.

Ashey — Thu, 27 May 2004 17:39:19 GMT

I'm sure someone here will have an opinion...
I made my veg-oil filter out of a salvage OEM filter block from another 300D. I had to tap it out to match the SAE sized male threaded fitting to mate it up to the 1/4" fuel line 'in' from the oil-tank and the 3/8 (or whatever)" 'out' to the (plumbing maze, 6 port valve and finally to the) injector pump. I'm getting air in the process. I've replaced all my lines with clear, so I can kinda track it, but it only leaks under load now, i.e. while driving up hills, fast, etc. So I was thinking about sealing the brass fittings into the filter block with either superglue, or epoxy, to eliminate them as potential leak points. Thoughts? Also, any general tips for eliminating air leaks in the fuel system? How much suction does it make under load? Thanks in advance!!

Ash

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply

Let's change the main photo for this tribe, thoughts?

Ashey — Thu, 27 May 2004 17:34:02 GMT

I posted my candidate... Also burgandy but way less janky looking. ;) No offence to whoever loves that one. Post your favorite pick and lets decide together? Cheers!

Ash

posted in Benz W123D - 1 reply