87 300TD What to look for - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Big Jim · #1 03-03-2008, 04:25 PM

hello all, a buddy of mine who has no computer is contemplating the purchase of an 87 300TD. it is originally from california and spent some time in florida and is now in the chicago area. he looked at it yesterday and it had zero rust, a few small fuel leaks, pretty badly cracked dash, and interior needs a big time cleaning. 252K on the clock. sounds like it is in decent shape. what other things should he be looking for on this particular model. the guy is asking 5250 for it. my buddy is pretty familiar with diesel benzes but asked me to post this in case he overlooks anything on this particlar wagon. thanks....jim

Dee8go · #2 03-03-2008, 04:54 PM

$5250 seems a bit high to me.

Diesel Dan · #3 03-03-2008, 04:59 PM

This question has been asked several times on this forum. I suggest you do a search, and you will find lots of information. I'll just mention the most obvious thing, which is the #14 head. Do a search for that. They are prone to cracking. So he will want to look for the signs of head cracking, such as pressurized radiator hose when cold, and oil in the coolant, or vice-versa. Generally, the w124 is faster and more refined than the older models, but I think it is less durable, harder to work on, and harder to find parts for.

I agree the price sounds high, considering the condition of the interior, and the number of miles. But prices vary by location. Here in Texas, that car would sell for closer to $4,000.

dieseldiehard · #4 03-03-2008, 05:22 PM

87 300TD Wagon - Opinions?
Looking at a '87 300TD

Overpriced IMHO.
repairing the dash can run you $1500
fixing the A/C can run nearly that much or more depending where you take it.
Check the SLS (self leveling suspension)
Is the Vacuum pump the original? if so plan on a new version ASAP. There is lots of info on that, search for OM603 vacuum or 603 vac pump or similar.
Then ther'es the #14 head search for 603 cracked head, etc. snd contrary to what people say are only prone to crack if the car is neglected, no maintenance, plugged radiator fins, coolant not changed regularly. I own two (2) '87s turbodiesels, both with #14 heads and I drive the snot out of them and they never overheat nor do the heads crack. My friend with an '87 300D and a #14 head does likewise, never a problem

But if you have the original radiator in the car and the thermoclutch on the fan is bad and you drive hard with the AC on in the summer up a steep hill and the head cracks, don't blame the head, blame the other stuff that is supposed to keep the engine cool.

The '87 300TD, when fixed up properly, will astound you with it's handling, acceleration, etc. and is woth a lot to some people that appreciate its qualities

Big Jim · #5 03-03-2008, 09:00 PM

thanks for all the information guys. i just read all these replies to my buddy over the phone and he decided to take a pass on it. he told me that yesterday when he looked at it in person he wasnt too interested in it and offered the guy 4000, figuring the guy wouldnt take the offer, but the guy called his wife and got the o k to sell it for 4000. but my buddy said he didnt have the time to fix it up proper. he said the body was clean and rust free. well its in auto trader if anyone is interested. located around 30 miles southwest of chicago. 60608. thanks again.....jim