Originally Posted by Dan Stokes

So far my MB has been pretty consistent with it's model year ('85) but I understand they they threw a curve ball if you have an OM617 in a station wagon. They used some sort of self-leveling suspension and the entire cylinder head is different - something about mounts for the suspension pump or something. I haven't personally run into this so I have zero experience but just a heads-up.

I really prefer the 24 valve engine. They have a couple of ideocyncracies (sp?) but all in all they make great power on less fuel. I've been deep inside these engines as part of my work experiences back in my working years (I reblocked one as well as less invasive work) so I know how stoutly they're built. If you end up with one I'll tell you what they need to live long and prosper.

Dan