Just wondering if the IP used with the 617 motor requires any preventative maintenance from time to time other than Moly Lubro purge etc. O-rings/seals? Any thoughts? It sems like a pretty beefy pump and I would like to take good care of it since they are expensive to replace. Thanks!

If there are any old 671 engines that have the IP that is NOT lubricated by the engine oil you need to make sure that the IP oil sump is filled properly with oil (the old 220D and 240Ds I believe had them but I do not know if any 617s had that type of IP).

Most of the 617 Fuel Injection Pumps are designed without O-rings in the Delivery Valve area as the Crush Washers are in a different spot and do all of the sealing. If you did have O-rings to seal your Delivery Valve Holders it would be better not to change them until 1 of them starts leaking. The exception might be if you are going to use and alternative fuel and want to replace the O-rings with Viton ones.
The problem area on the IP is the Hand Primer that goes on the Fuel Supply Pump. The older ones with the hard plastic knob that you have to unscrew before you can pump tend to leak or allow air to be sucked in (fortunately easy and cheap to replace).
There have been a few members who have rebuilt their Fuel Supply Pumps but most see just to get a used one from the Junk Yard when they have a problem.

Since you have been a member for a long time you must have read some threads on timing chain stretch which also effects the IP timing as the IP is driven by the same chain. I think most cars including mine need the IP timing checked. Some day I will get around to checking it on my car.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel

A drainable water separator with a warning indicator that it has quite a bit of water accumulated is really good. Water has been compared with processing sandpaper through the tight tollerance of element pistons and cylinders in the injection pump. Damages injectors as well.

This item will help maximize the usable life of the pump. It is also strange that mercedes never incorporated one. Most diesel engines did when these cars where new. Even the much cheaper volkswagon had a good water control system.

Doesn't the spin on (actually bolt on) fuel filter have the ability to seperate (but not drain) small amounts of water? I added a Raycor system to my 1981 GM diesel and wish I had kept it for the MB but I've not had any issues.

I keep seeing post about replacing the rack dampener pin - does that apply to a 617 IP? I've assumed it was for newer engines and pumps, right?

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Charles
1983 300D, bought new, 215k+ miles, donated to Purple Hearts veterans charity but I have parts for sale: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/mercedes-benz-cars-sale/296386-fs-1-owner-83-mb-300d-turbo-rebuild-parts.html