I'm looking at purchasing a 1994 S350 Turbo Diesel and plan to convert it to burn straight vegetable oil. I've heard that this particular engine has a history of mechanical problems (connecting rods bent) and I would be better off looking at a newer E300TD model. Any experiences or advice regarding this question?

The advice is correct.

The risk of losing the entire engine is not worth the purchase price in most cases.

Fixing the engine can cost over $4000 if it has the bent rod problem.

Perhaps you should consider an older model for WVO rather than a newer model.......

SB

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Diesels:
'85 300D, "Max, Blue Benz", 155K, 27.0 MPG
'84 190D 2.2, "Eva, Brown Benz", 142K, 40.2 MPG
'77 240D (parts car)
'67 Eicher ES 202 Tractor "Otto" (2cyl, Air Cooled, 30HP)
Gassers:
'94 Ford F-150, "Henry", 170K (300 Six) 17.5 MPG
'85 190E 2.3, 148K....Parts Car
'58 Dodge W300M Powerwagon (Flat Fenders) Less than 10 MPG