Get up and go
 

Hey everyone, I am the proud new owner of a 1975 Mercedes Benz 240D. I was wondering if I could add performance to acceleration without doing a full swap to a 5 cyl turbo. Also, when I shift gears, the rear end drops roughly 3 inches, is this normal or is it a symptom of weak springs or shocks? Thanks in advance.

just make sure the timing is right. not much to do to make it faster. also check for valves that are tight. an expert can adjust the fuel so that it is optimal. but in the end a 240 is not going to be very fast.

the rear dipping is normal. 3" i dont know. that seems like a lot but it also may feel like three and be less.

if the shocks are shot the ride will be bouncy if they are bilsteins, anyway. the springs last a very long time.

tom w

I agree, there is no simple way to increase the power above stock. However, you should do everything you can to make sure you are getting full power. Have the air and fuel filters been replaced recently? Adjust the valves, as Tom said. Do you know if the IP timing is correct? Make sure the throttle linkage is letting the IP go all the way to the stop when it's floored. Don't expect a lot of power from a 240D. If you can't live with it, buy a 300D turbo.

air fil
 

The air filter should not affect engine output until it reaches 24 inches of water of resistance. I am new to old benzes but i have rebuilt and repaired a few diesels...

Well, I don't know your basis for 24 inches (about .8 psi) but I agree that inlet air pressure is not as critical on a diesel, compared to a gasser. If the filter is very dirty it will affect performance, as well as potentially bypassing dirt into the engine. If I'm doing filters, I normally take a look at the air filter as well.

Air filter on a 75 is an oil bath type. You don't normally replace it, you just muck it out, clean the element in solvent, and add fresh oil.

Ops, my bad.:o