'84 300d Air Filter Bracket bolts
 

I'm replacing the air filter bracket and mounts on my '84 300d. The new bracket appears to be identical to the old one. After loosely threading the lower bolt (13mm), the two upper 10mm bolt holes don't align with the holes in the manifold. The holes in the bracket appear to be about half a bolt hole (maybe 5mm) off center with the holes in the manifold.

I think the old one was the same way. When I removed the two 10mm bolts, one of them shot away as the bracket returned to its natural resting position.

What's the trick in getting this thing installed? Brute force? I've pushed it around and it doesn't seem to want to line up.

Thanks,

Zac

Where did you get the bracket, dealer? If not it could be one of them Chinese made parts.

That's funny, I had the same exact problem with mine. I just kind of forced the darn thing. I figure maybe it's just designed to be under some kind of tension, possibly to reduce vibration and rattling?

Good Luck

The bracket is from diesel giant. It appears to be identical to the original, which also doesn't line up with the bolt holes.

Hi Zac
Did you buy this part brand new? Either way let us know please.
Cheers
Big Dan
Vancouver Canada

Its probably an after market bracket.
This would explain your problem.
A few years ago I did exactly like you and thought by buying a cheaper one it would fit just fine.....But it didn't.and I ended up having to buy one from the dealer.
Good luck
Dan
Vancouver Canada

That's what I did. I started every bolt a couple of turns by pushing on the bracket. Bolted it down tight - now issues.