Minimal wiring/lines-what will it take to run?
 

I am pulling the engine and manual trans from an '83 240D to use in a little hotrod project (don't ask, I'm nuts) and was wondering, if I'm not using the A/C, cruise, and all the other junk, what's the absolute BARE MINIMUM I need hooked to this engine to run properly?

Glow plugs, starter, and I presume you will keep the alt?

If you only run it in the summer you can probably get away without even the GP's, but they are kind of nice to have working.

Glowplugs, starter, alternator and fuel lines.

You're not nuts, I wouldn't mind fitting an OM616 into a Model T.

I think I'm gonna go with a small Nippondenso or Hitachi alternator-minimal wiring, small size, lightweight. I'm planning on this thing to be barebones, minimalist, lightweight, and totally bad-ass looking. Speed's not high on my priority list, surprisingly.

don't forget the vacuum line(s)... brakes and the IP shutoff at least.

A little wiring might be simpler and more minimalist (minimalister?) than a vacuum key switch -

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/233229-hot-wire.html

Sixto
87 300D

Get a cable-knob shutoff switch.
Deal with manual brakes.
Use a manual transmission, and you won't need the vacuum pump any more :)

It's a manual trans, so the vacuum there is moot, the braking system on the car has yet to be determined, it may very well end up manual, since it will be so lightweight, I don't feel I will need power brakes.

Hydroboost brakes are always an option.

If you always park looking down a hill... you can leave off the battery, starter, etc... JimSmith did that a long time ... in the archives....
I would keep the vacuum pump ....

What would be the purpose of the vacuum pump if I have a manual trans and manual brakes? Does it run other things?

Engine shut-off, which you could easily replace.

Vacuum...

It unlocks your fuel door AND changes the altitude of your (euro) headlights! :D

If you are gonna go with manual brakes and if you rig a cable pull or even an 'lectric control on the shutoff lever on the IP, I think you can safely ditch the vacuum pump.

Or If you are going for real 'personality' you could skip all that and pop the hood every time in order to shut her down.

Don't need to pop the hood, it's gonna be open-engined. I think I'm gonna rig me up a cable or something.