3300 mile Mexico Road trip in a 87 300TD

[tsiero]

Almost new everything. Redid AC, control arms, struts on and on. When first purchased between NC to NM used 4 qts of Oil over 1600 miles. On this trip I used 2 Qts and cant explain the difference. I drove between 75 and 90 mph in Mexico. Fuel consumption was between 25-28MPG. Fuel was about $1.90 per gallon. If you go bring extra fuel filters, both primary and secondary. I had 5K on my filter before I left and needed an fuel filter change in Guadalajara. PS The Mariachi International Fiesta was Great.

Originally Posted by tsiero

Almost new everything. Redid AC, control arms, struts on and on. When first purchased between NC to NM used 4 qts of Oil over 1600 miles. On this trip I used 2 Qts and cant explain the difference. I drove between 75 and 90 mph in Mexico. Fuel consumption was between 25-28MPG. Fuel was about $1.90 per gallon. If you go bring extra fuel filters, both primary and secondary. I had 5K on my filter before I left and needed an fuel filter change in Guadalajara. PS The Mariachi International Fiesta was Great.

Congrats on your touring Mexico in your Benz. I must say though, 4 qts. in 1600 mi suggests you have either a real leaker, or bad rings. Even 2 qts over that range is not good. Also, 25-28 mpg, are below what should be expected from these 603 engines!

[tsiero]

I still have a substantial oil leak and the Mercedes mechanic in Guadalajara said I should replace the valve seals. This engine has 175K showing on the odometer that wasn't working when I purchased it. In 1997 it had 142K on it. I would estimate it has 250K on it. It is still cheaper to operate than the 1989 Ford Econoline van that I was using.

[Dana B.]

Originally Posted by BusyBenz

Also, 25-28 mpg, are below what should be expected from these 603 engines!

At bt. 75 and 90 mph, I doubt fuel mileage could be better.