Hello duxthe1

The OM617, all the data I have states that MB achieved USA emissions with stock European parts.
#1. USA cars ALDA is OEM preset minimum lean + EGR is added, timing is identical to European.
#2. A trap oxidizer was added on California models, can't recall what year.

One of the most popular modifications is to tweak the ALDA for higher fuel output = more power.
Your statements are true for a gasser, and possibly for newer diesels, but do not apply to OM617 and earlier diesel engines.