I am in the process of acquiring a mostly solid '72 280 SE for my wife. It has a mechanically injected gas engine and we would prefer it to be diesel. Would the OM617 be a good candidate and if so, which automatic Overdrive transmissions would be the most simple to swap in. I'm okay with adapting other brand parts. My fj40 is a prime example. It is currently getting a military diesel engine.

I would be buying the car from the original owner who was a vehicle mechanic prior to retiring.

Thanks,

Matthew
MC Designs Offroad