Hi all,
I have an option to buy a MB diesel vehicle that was imported into N-A from the Middle East last year. THe seller tells me that he got a shop to put in anti-freeze last Fall, and they noticed that there was no thermostat in it at all, so they put one in.

I am no expert in mechanical practices in hot countries, but would think that some harm to the engine could be done by running it without a thermostat (ie. straight through). That it wouldn't allow the engine to warm up properly or evenly. There is no way to know how long the vehicle was run this way, but probably some time.

Any indications of what this may do to am OM617 engine (non-turbo)? I did notice that the engine has a small oil leak toward the front or underneath (not at the back). Upon starting cold, there is a bit of blueish-whitish smoke for a few minutes until the engine warms up. It seems to run well when it's up and going.

Thanks for your thoughts.

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1983 300TD 240K - 1982 240D 215K - 1996 Dodge Cummins 70K