What is this thing, and how do I get it out of my way?
 

This is a OM 606 and it (gold colorered with black plastic cap) is blocking access to a glow plug. It is on the injection pump.

My best uneducated guess (617 experience only - if 606 is non-turbo then this is all BS) is that it's the ALDA. The black cap on the top is there to prevent unauthorized adjustment. There should be a large nut on the bottom of it that is captive on the IP. Turn it clockwise while holding the ALDA stationary (CW, that is correct) to release the ALDA.

On my ALDA, I cut the black cap off with a Dremel tool, then backed the nut off completely holding the center screw with a straight blade screwdriver, removed the remains of the cap, then replaced the nut. Makes a nice clean looking ALDA. If you are rebuilding your engine, then you will probably want to adjust this item anyway, so you might as well take it off and cut it while it's off the IP.

It is the non-turbo version of the 606.

It's probably an altitude compensator, regulates how much fuel the IP squirts into the engine as a function of altitude above sea level.

I believe that this is called an ADA
 

Far as I know has a big 27mm retaining nut below that you have to crack with a wrench then remove with your fingers. If so then there is a loose shim below, don't lose it. Cheers Dan

I don't have this thing on my '97. Maybe it's a '95-only thing? :confused:

OP said it was non-turbo, and I was under the impression that the ALDA was turbo only. Is that not true? Or is it only true for certain chassis/year/model/etc.?

It’s on the way, but you should still be able to remove the glow plug without too much of a hassle…

Does the intake manifold need to come off?
 

I took the crossover pipe off my car to get access to the shutoff valve and the ADA is in the way of removing the valve. There was no way that I could figure to fit the wrenches in the space available and ended up abandoning the project. Is there a trick to getting the ADA out or do I just need to remove the entire intake to get room?

Might also be a Federal/California difference.

my car is not california emmissions and it does have this part - quite, its an altitude compensator. Dont know how to get it off though.

I expect the attachment isn't too different from the ALDA on the 603 - http://www.peachparts.com/Wikka/OM603Alda . Big nut on the IP, wrench flats on the ADA.

Sixto
87 300D