1990 350 SDL Questions
 

Bought the thing 2 weeks ago, love it. New to MB and not mechanically inclined yet, but have the desire. Original engine (I have read all about the issues but the car is from a friend and has been solid for him). A few questions for you veterans:

1-what routine maintenance should I do and how often?
2-should I have a set of supplies at the ready for any expected issues
3-should I have the car checked out now that I have it? Does it need a purge or anything like that? Sorry about the amateur questions.
4-I think I may have "lifter tick". Beneath the heart warming diesel growling there is a metallic tapping that is higher in pitch and varies in frequency with the rpm. Please tell me this isn't a big deal (not a rod issue?).
5-tachymeter not working, sounds like I really need this instrument, unlike in my gas engine japanese import.

Thanks all. Love to be here.

4: The rods don't "tick", and piston scuffing is definately a deeper sound also, sounds like lifters. Many of us run Mobil Delvac 1 / Turbo Diesel & Truck synthetic oil with good results in reducing/eliminating the tick after a few-thousand miles.

5: Most common cause is the OVP relay, do a search on OVP, it would affect ABS ASD and A/C also IIRC (does on the 124).

1. What has your buddy done for routine maintenance?

2. A spare 3.0 OM603 to drop in when needed.

x2 on the Mobil 1 5w40 Turbo Diesel Truck oil.