Diesel Engine Condition
 

Hey all,
I'm currently searching for a mid 80"s 240 or 300d. I've looked at a couple. Some are in descent shape. Is there any way to determine the condition of the diesel engine? The ones I've seen seem to run well, no turbo so a little sluggish. Each have bt. 150k and 185k miles.

Thanks for the great site. I've used the search engine many times to help me with my 1990 300e.

Blow by and cold start. Thats why the winter is the best time to buy a diesel. If a diesel lights right off when its 10 degrees out its in good shape.

try starting the car without glowing the plugs... less than 5 seconds of cranking on a cold (first start of the day) motor,and it's pretty good. over 15 seconds and it's got compresson problems. once running see how much smoke emits from the oil fill hole with the cap off. also, see how long it takes to shut off the car if you plug the PCV hose with your thumb. (have the oil cap secure for this test) less than 8 seconds and you have significant blowby... so I have heard. I have also heard that this test can damage the motor... YMMV
best to take the car to a MB shop and have them inspect the vehicle, and do a full compression test, cold, warm, dry and wet.