PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - 300d 4-speed swap: are you happy with it?

54dan · #13 02-06-2013, 08:11 AM

So, I went and looked at the potential donor car today ... 1983 240d 4-speed ... half afraid I would wind up with yet another car that I liked to drive instead of a pile of parts. Car has 400k+ miles and has seen only absolutely necessary maintenance in recent years. Significant blowby, probably hard to start when cold (it was warm when I got there), drivers window regulator broken, electric sunroof not working, non-functional HVAC, bad engine mounts, all the usual things.

But, the trans shifted smoothly and made no noise, I didn't see any rust. Decent interior. Had a new radiator, battery and alternator. I decided I wouldn't feel bad about using it as a donor and parting it out. Guy was asking 1350, I offered $1000, we shook hands on $1100, bring cash and get the car next day. Guy sends me an e-mail, says wife wants $1175. Grrr. Part of me wants to say that I was already giving too much for a clapped out 240 and I'd be better just hunting a pile of parts.

I'm jealous of all you guys with the pic-a-parts -- we have none here and most junkyards either only have 2000 and newer or act like they are dealing in gold artifacts.

-Dan