Well, it happened. My 350SD did what all have been saying it would do...catastrophic engine failure. My question is, can I swap in a used 300SD/SDL engine, same year, to avoid the expensive rebuild?? Has anyone tried this? Thanks,

Yotaxi

Welcome to the forum.


You can swap a 603 from the years 1986-1987, a 3L engine, into the vehicle.

The performance will be approximately the same and the durability and cost will be better.

There are complete engines available in the range of $1500. or so, but, it's a crapshoot as to their condition.



Also, it's appreciated if you put your vehicle(s) in your signature. I'm just guessing that you have a 1991-1993 350 SD.

You may be able to pick up a 300SDL motor with a bad head for very little money. Use the cylinder head and vacuum pump from your 350SDL and you will have a really good motor. The bottom ends of 300 SDL motors are very solid. Do a search on "cracked head" and you will see what I mean.

If you live around San Diego you could check this out.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/300-SDL-300SDL-Engine-Mercedes-Fresh-New-Cylinder-Head_W0QQitemZ280009742706QQihZ018QQcategoryZ33615QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

__________________
Tom Hughes
St. Louis
84 300SD
92 300D
86 300SDL

Thanks for the input,
Ebay is one place I've looked (but there aren't too many engines for sale, only complete autos). Are there other used MB engine sources out there, anyone??

Thanks,
Yotaxi
1991 350SD

How many miles did you have on the engine before the failure? It's good to know that it is possible to drop in a replacement engine, though - the 350SD is such a great vehicle all around, so at least the rest of the car can keep going even with a new engine! Good luck!

I believe the 350SD was only available in 91.

You have some research to do to determine if you can/should use the 3.0 or 3.5 prechambers, injectors and IP. 3.0 prechambers have to be modified to fit a 3.5 head.

Sixto
... stay tuned

The 603.960 from an 87 300D/TD is another long block to consider.

Sixto
... stay tuned

I reread the post - what is a same year 300SD/SDL engine?

Sixto
... stay tuned