Hello, Mercedes newbie here. I have a 1976 300d with a great powertrain but rusty body. I have the opportunity to purchase a 1981 300 sd with a bad motor (not sure what's wrong with it) but a nice body. Is an engine swap feasable or is there a large difference in the engine/trans combos?

Thanks

Randy
Baltimore Md.

First, the 76 is a non turbo. The 81 SD is a turbo. You would have power loss.

Second, most of the gauges (speedometer, oil pressure) in the SD are electrical while in the D are mechanical.

You may be able to get everything to bolt up to solve these issues (Use SD's tranny so speedometer works, switch oil filter housings, etc) but you would still be driving around a car (the SD) designed for a turbo with a non turbo motor.

__________________
2009 ML320 Bluetec
1985 300CD
1981 300TD

Past Mercedes
1979 300TD
1982 300TD
2000 E320 4Matic Wagon
1998 E430
1984 300SD
1980 300SD

Keep in mind also that I have an '83 engine from a 123 in the Parts section, and am not that far away (near Chambersburg PA). You'll have to change a few parts, but at least you'll end up with the correct engine.

The oil filter system on the '76 engine is way different than the later system. I would look for another turbo engine to swap in.

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1979 240D- 316K miles - VGT Turbo, Intercooler, Stick Shift, Many Other Mods - Daily Driver

1982 300SD - 232K miles - Wife's Daily Driver

1986 560SL - Wife's red speed machine

Thanks for the info! I'll look for a nicer non turbo car body for my powertrain.

Thanks again.

Randy