Guys, if the rods are an issue, cant you pull the oil filter cut it open and look for metal. I mean, if a rod was looking to let go, you're sure know it!

Mine also had an incredible amount of gunk in the intake too at 75K miles when a turbo bearing started to fail. Disabled EGR by putting ball bearing in vacuum hose. Has 188K on it now and it is running fine. Just completed 2K mile road trip with no signifcant oil consumption.

based on what i read (and i am no motorhead), the cylinders become ovalized so minimally that it is undetectable then BOOM, its done.

Significantly increased oil consumption should alert you before it happens.

When I was looking for a 140 Chassis I wanted another diesel like my 126. The reputation of the 3.5L engine made me want to stay away. I would not suggest buying the car unless you really like it as many MB enthusiasts like myself actively avoid cars with serious design flaws (its going to be real hard to resell). You should really do some research about the 3.5 before you buy one. If your willing to do the repairs over and over and over again than by all means buy one. If your not someone who likes to have work done on your car there are a lot better Mercedes for someone to enjoy out there. With the cost of short blocks the lackluster power and the lackluster fuel economy you would be better off with al 300SEL or 300SE. Better performance, longevity and about the same fuel economy.

It might be a really nice car but there are other 126's out there that are just as nice with much better engines. In regards to the appearance of the later model 126's on the outside they are virtually the same other than headlights wheels and lower cladding. The interior is where most of the difference is.

Higher value or not if someone knocked on my door and wanted to trade a 1991 350SD for my 1982 300SD I would not even consider it for a second.

brian carlson,would you repost those pictures again, it seems this crowd needs pictures.
larry perkins lou ky