You have achieved some thing unusual. I would have thought the alloy sump on a 124 would be history long before the radiator tank. That bash plate DV has posted looks like it would be a good idea. I have been thinking about making one out of some 1/4" thick T6 aluminum plate. It would let the car just scrape over curb etc.

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Grumpy Old Diesel Owners Club group

I no longer question authority, I annoy authority. More effect, less effort....

1967 230-6 auto parts car. rust bucket.
1980 300D now parts car 800k miles
1984 300D 500k miles
1987 250td 160k miles English import
2001 jeep turbo diesel 130k miles
1998 jeep tdi ~ followed me home. Needs a turbo.
1968 Ford F750 truck. 6-354 diesel conversion.
Other toys ~J.D.,Cat & GM ~ mainly earth moving