[Moparman]

Hi all, first post here. I am completely new to the world of MB, but I think there is one in my future.

Currently I drive an '82 Olds Cutlass wagon. The frame is rusting away on me, and won't be around forever. And it only gets about 21-23 mpg on the hwy, much less in town. The wagon part is absolutely necessary, as it goes to the lake with the family, camping, and carries goose decoys and canoes in the fall. And sometimes a deer. I do all my own mechanical work (camshafts, replaced heads, timing chains, suspension, brakes, carburetors, etc.) A diesel appeals to my thrifty side, as well as I understand them to be very durable.

So I am looking for an early '80s diesel mid-sized wagon, possibly a turbo if they are also reliable. Initial cost is a factor, as would be repair parts costs. What model can people recommend that is durable, reliable, fixable by a good home mechanic? The simpler the better. I understand there are some models with hydraulic/pneumatic suspensions? Are they worth the hassle? Do they compensate for load?

Like I said, I am completely new to MB so don't be afraid to dumb it down for me, I won't be insulted.

Moparman

 

[Schmohey]

The 300TDs.

 

[Kajtek1]

To be more specific 78-85 tdt. The 86-88 6-cylinders like to crack the heads.
I sold my 83 300tdt over a year ago for about $2500.
It was very strong mechanically with 250k, but interior was faded and after fixing 8 oil leaks - I gave up on it.
Having no diesel available I am driving gas E320 wagon.
It is still beautiful car and with my low annual mileage the diesel economy is not that important.
Just both Powerstroke 7.3l Ford F450. Supposable the 15,000 GVW vehicle makes close to 20 MPG. Can't wait to test it myself.

 

[flyboyike]

Moparman - 4/20/2006 10:44 AM

So I am looking for an early '80s diesel mid-sized wagon, possibly a turbo if they are also reliable. Initial cost is a factor, as would be repair parts costs. What model can people recommend that is durable, reliable, fixable by a good home mechanic?

You just found one.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1982-Mercedes-300TD-Turbo-Diesel-WAGON-AZ-NO-RESERVE_W0QQitemZ4633238534QQcategoryZ6330QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

Or this one:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/300TD-WAGON-RUST-FREE-ARIZONA-CAR-CLEAN_W0QQitemZ4631198128QQcategoryZ6330QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem


And here is an interesting GAS wagon:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1983-280TE-Euro-123-wagon-like-300TD-manual-trans_W0QQitemZ4632852397QQcategoryZ6329QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

 

[Moparman]

Did these years and models have a standard rear suspension, or something hydraulic/complex?

Moparman

 

[flyboyike]

Moparman - 4/20/2006 12:48 PM

Did these years and models have a standard rear suspension, or something hydraulic/complex?

It's hydraulic, but not especially complex, IMHO.

 

[Franasia]

Moparman - 4/20/2006 1:48 PM

Did these years and models have a standard rear suspension, or something hydraulic/complex?

Moparman

Standard self leveling rear suspension is istandard on all T models. Remember, this is a Mercedes. []

Cheers.

 

[w123benzman]

There are really only two maintenance items on the 300TD rear SLS that require replacement, the filter in the fluid tank and the air cells that control ride quality. Not hard to replace but about $95 per side. Otherwise replace a part only if it is leaking!

1979 and 1980 models are non turbo and have a climate control system that can be expensive to repair. I have done mine a few times!

1980 300TD - 306 K (Currently dead)
1980 300TD - 262 K (Currently alive)
1981 300TD - 200 K (inactive)
1982 300SD - 166 K (backup car)
1981 240TD - 101 K (for sale)
1986 Audi 5000 CS Quattro -Current 4wd winter car

 

[flyboyike]

Old thread.