I'd like to thank all of you that frequently help people like me all of the time on this forum. It's unbelievable how much time/money is wasted on projects that can be completed with the proper know-how. The wealth of knowledge you share help inexperienced (but willing to learn) people like me. Thanks!

I just bought a 1976 Mercedes 4 cylinder W115 240D with 158,000 original miles. The VIN is 115-117-10-125820. I am a schoolteacher, and know that this is not a showcar, but purchased it because I figured it would be reliable and better than buying a cheap used Honda Accord and because I actually do think it's showcar!

From what I can tell, the car is in great shape but I am wary about starting the basic fluid/filter changes that sound easy on the internet. I am not an experienced mechanic. As I prepare to get my hands dirty (for the first time) and learn about the engine/service it, what are some preliminary steps I should take? Should I degrease the engine? What tools and materials are must/have for the work I will be doing? Should I just take it to a mechanic instead of tinkering myself?

Which manuals should I buy? I noticed Haynes has a book for the w123 chassis for my year (1976 240D), but I can't seem to find one for the w115. Is there a better book for dummies? Are the dieselgiant.com packages a good deal for training mechanics like myself?

Also, I think the right rear door seal and trunk seal are worn. Is replacing seals as simple as I presume- 1) Order seal 2) scrape off old 3) glue down new?

I apologize ahead of time for too many questions and also thank you for all of the advice. If you need any information on the car I would be glad to share it! I hope to get some pictures up next week...I figure the more information the better. Thanks again!


G. Sachinidis.

Welcome! Mercedes didn't make the w123 until 78 or 79, so I'm guessing that the haynes manual you where looking at was most likely for your car. I own a 300d, same year as yours, and the most dificult task you'll find is changing the oil. The filter is a bit of a bear to get too. You can pretty much find anything that you could ever want to know on this forum. Good luck wrenching!

__________________
"spreading a trail of obnoxious where ever we go"
1981 300sd w/ 341,500 miles

http://www.wecrash.com/pics/ddda_banner.gif

Service Manual is available directly from Mercedes Benz (of all things) for the surprisingly low price of $19.99 plus shipping!

Try this link: http://www.classictechlit.mbusa.com/MB/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=Retail&category%5Fname=1009%28ClassicTechLit%29&product%5Fid=QL%2D6516%2D0507%2D02%28ClassicTechLit%29

or copy and paste into your browser.

Good luck with your new purchase.

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83 300d - 390k

that manual you're looking at is NOT the one for your car. the W123 series started out in 1976 in other countries and debuted in the USA as a 1977 model. Good luck with your 240 D. I had a 76 240 D and I really enjoyed driving it.

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TXBill



Former owner of a few diesel MB cars
1998 Lexus ES 300 In Chicago We Trust