I highly respect Jim. He is a hard working, honest and knowledgable MB guy, but you can see that I respectfully disagree with Jim about reusing pistons.

It is okay to bore the existing liners in a worn 616 or 617 engine and use oversize pistons. There is no need to go back to standard bore by replacing liners. I've done this a couple of times with great success.

Even if a diesel piston measures in spec., it is a HIGHLY stressed piece. I have in my box full of momentos a 616 piston with failed ring lands and it is not the only one that I've ever seen.

In many cases I'm sure that you can get by with used pistons, but you will have so much work and money in a rebuild, that for me it's just not worth the risk. Especially in a four cylinder where you only buy four pistons instead of five. Also I have seen pretty good prices on the early 616 pistons.

Jim, your neverending contribution to mshop is GREATLY appreciated.

Have a great day,