excuse the stupid question, but i'm new to buying car parts. when a listing reads like this:

price: $250
core: $200

i know what core means as far as trading in your old part, but does the $200 refer to how much it will cost after trade-in, or does it refer to how much of a discount you get for your old part?

__________________
1985 300D Turbo "Eunis"

Neither one. Core charge is paid up front (example total: $450). Then when you return the used/defective part you will be refunded the core charge (example: $200). Actual total paid after the refund $250.

This system is used for rebuildable parts to ensure the return of a used "core" for refurbishing.

__________________
Sam

84 300SD 350K+ miles ( Blue Belle )

the total price to obtain the part will be $450, when you return the old part they will give you the $200 back. most places have a high core charge to give the purchaser the incentive to return the old one, that gurantees they have a part to rebuild and resell.
Ray
mercedessd@cox.net

Not a stupid question at all. If you send in your part with the order this reduces your up front cost to the 250.00 rebuid charge. Also potentially saves a lot of paperwork and reduces financial risk a little in some cases. None of us were born buying car parts so if possible find an aquaintence or friend with a lot of experience. I think I became somewhat of a scrounger out of necessity when raising my family. After all these years cannot seem to get away from the habit at this late date. When buying rebuilt parts the reputation of the rebuilder is perhaps the most important thing of all. Just keep asking your questions on this site and a lot of guys with various levels of experience will try to help you to the best of their ability. Never forget one of the charms of these old diesels is that you can keep them on the road quite cheaply compared to other cars with a little help.