Quote:
Originally Posted by greasybenz
I read that the early 4matic systems were junk.
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On the contrary.
My '91 300TE 4matic (the one in my avatar) was a good runner, got mid-20s on the highway when new, all-around decent car. The 4matics were built by Steyr-Puch and were pretty much bulletproof compared to the viscous-coupling junk in the 2nd generation 4matic, ... in my opinion anyway.
However, both systems are reactive systems, and pale in comparison to the quattro system or any permanently-engaged AWD system when you try to drive it hard or in serious ice & snow, I finally dumped my 4matic and went back to quattros in '97. Should've saved the German lights and wipers though.
Any of the parts unique to the 4matic (transfer case, front diff, engine, etc.) are worth money, if you convert the car save and sell them.
I had considered using an '87 300D for a parts car to make a newer TE into a diesel, wanted a 124 300TD but I like the later interiors and features, but the task just got too big for my taste. Wiring harnesses, ignition switch and gauges, engine and fuel system, transmission and differential, springs, ... seems the list just kept getting bigger.
If you're going to do it and are near SW Michigan drop me a line before I have my almost gutted '87 300D parts car hauled away, you can always cut and paste pieces of my wiring and plumbing if you want.