What are the advantages/disadvantages compared to each other.

Which has the better engine?

Im asking because I have the 84 300sd and my Dad just bought the 87 300td.

There seems to be a fuel leak near the fuel injectors and my uncle doesn't think its running on all 6 cly, so the 300td is running sluggish. Like when we push down on the gas pedal, the car doesn't shake at all, and is real quiet.

I was wondering if it was supposed to be like that and if fixing the fuel leak would have a dramatic effect. BTW how would you fix that leak.

Its near the bolts. I think all you need is new seals.

anyways thanks,

Tony

This thread is looking to start a huge debate between 603 and 617 fans.
lol just kidding.

There is no better engine, The 603 (6cyl) should have more power, and be quieter, however it is more fragile (suseptible to poor maintence)

My personal vote is for the 617, its simpler, alittle more rugged, alittle more friendly towards alternative fuels. but its an older design that dates back to the 60's

Mostly personal preferance, but I also prefer the W126 to W124, not trying to start a debate on this either.


Fuel leak near injectors, check the return lines,

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1984 Euro 300SDC, (4spd standard)
1986 Toyota Landcruiser Diesel HJ60 5spd X2

Gone but not forgotten (some sold, some stripped)
1983 300 SD, 1985 300 SD, 1983 240D, 1986 300 SDL, 1985 300 SDL, 1983 300 D, 1984 300 D, 1985 300SD, 1987 300 SDL, 1983 300 SD, 1985 300 TD Euro, 1983 380SEC, 1990 300 D, 1987 300D, 1982 300D, 1982 300D, 1994 E420, 1987 300 TD, 1987 300 D, 1984 300 D

My vote is for the 617 also. I have heard too many horror stories on the 6 cyl. heads.
as for slugishness, yes fix the fuel leaks, check injector timing, and change fuel filters if you have not done that yet. Also since this is "new" to him, he might want to check the tank screen.

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81 Mercedes 300SD 289k.......SOLD
82 Mercedes 300CD 252k......slow ride

82 mercedes 300 SD...mi Unknown
83 Mercedes 300D ????ksniff..gone too
84 Mercedes 300D 148k........SOLD
85 Mercedes 300TD 386k and holding some one elses project

I love my 87 300TD. Quiet and powerful. The turbo is a must-have.

That's only really the #14 head and most people have had those replaced. It's a non-issue if you have a more recent head than #14.

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-justin

1987 300TD, 1987 300TD
2008 R32, 2000 Passat Wagon

even if the 14 head has not been replaced, if you keep the coolant flushed regularly and keep a close eye on the temp, it's still a non issue. over heat it though and pop goes the weasel.
I love the 82 SD I drive, very powerful. hard to imagine how much more powerful the 603 is... someday I suppose. The SD's are generally more plush and roomy. that said, I would love to have an 87TD...
John

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John HAUL AWAY, OR CRUSHED CARS!!! HELP ME keep the cars out of the crusher! A/C Thread
"as I ride with my a/c on... I have fond memories of sweaty oily saturdays and spewing R12 into the air. THANKS for all you do!

My drivers:
1987 190D 2.5Turbo
1987 190D 2.5Turbo
1987 190D 2.5-5SPEED!!!

1987 300TD
1987 300TD
1994GMC 2500 6.5Turbo truck... I had to put the ladder somewhere!

They're just a little wider than the W124, but not really more plush. Where the TD lacks in width, it compensates in length. I can seat 7 in mine no problem.

During the holiday I had 5 adults and 2 big dogs traveling around in my wagon and it drove just like it always does for me when driving alone...like a champ.

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-justin

1987 300TD, 1987 300TD
2008 R32, 2000 Passat Wagon

Compared to the 84, the 87 won't feel like a Diesel.

I don't understand how it can be smooth yet not running on all cylinders.

Change all the filters and check that the fuel flowing into the IP is the color and consistency of commerically available Diesel fuel. Someone might have gotten creative with fuels.

Loosen each injector line one at a time while idling to see if one cylinder isn't pulling its weight. If you find such a cylinder, swap injectors to see if the problem is with the IP/cylinder or injector. Best to use new injector seals when you remove and replace injectors.

Does the 87 still have the trap? If not, remove the plug on the #1 exhaust runner and see if that improves throttle response. If so, the oxidation catalyst beside the transmission is likely clogged.

Sixto
93 300SD