have an 84 300 sd and the engine is knocking but runs fine its not the chain its new and adjusted the valves . gona try to find a donor car and wandered if the non turbo motor would adapt . second , is it common for the hood and the trunk lid to me made of aluminum . all of the rest of the panels are steel . replacing the front calipers and pads now .

I think you would be very unhappy with the performance of a n/a 617 in the SD.
However, I see no reason why it would not fit, however, I have not attempted it.

The trunk is definitely aluminum.

I was not personally aware that the hood was aluminum, however. But, I wouldn't be at all surprised.

Tap on the hood then on the side panel, definatley aluminum, you can readily hear and feel the difference.

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-diesel is not just a fuel, its a way of life-
'15 GLK250 Bluetec 118k - mine - (OC-123,800)
'17 Metris(VITO!) - 37k - wifes (OC-41k)
'09 Sprinter 3500 Winnebago View - 62k (OC - 67k)
'13 ML350 Bluetec - 95k - dad's (OC-98k)
'01 SL500 - 103k(km) - dad's (OC-110,000km)
'16 E400 4matic Sedan - 148k - Brothers (OC-155k)

on the engine i was wondering if the turbo accessories could be transfered to a non turbo . what are the differences . compression ratios , piston coolers ,or anything else that would make a difference.

you are thinking of turning a non turbo 617 into a turbo by changing the manifolds, etc.? i dont know if this is possible, but i do know that there are important differences internally, including oil cooled pistons, a larger nose on the crank and other things. these things are necessary to make the engine live under the higher pressure of the turbocharged combustion process. it would not be a good idea.

i advise finding a good used turbo motor... the best is to buy a complete car with rust or accident damage that you can hear run and perhaps even drive. such cars are available for less than $1,000, i should think, if you look.

good luck.

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

thats the info i was looking for . i have found a doner car but its not a turbo but for 200 dollars i thought i might ask . now i know i need a turbo motor .