Is this the one with Aluminum head? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

MercFan · #1 10-09-2009, 06:22 PM

A 1986 300SDL - looks in a pretty good condition:

http://losangeles.en.craigslist.org/sfv/cto/1402477667.html

What can you tell me about this model/year?! I seem to recall an aluminum head introduction in that year - but wasn't sure if it was on this engine or not. Is it worth making a mini-vacation to LA for this one?!...

Thanks
James

Skippy · #2 10-09-2009, 06:25 PM

That should have the OM603 engine with aluminum head. The early ones (like this one) had a head casting that is somewhat prone to cracking, usually occurring when the engine is overheated. Other than that they are not a bad engine and make slightly more power than a turbo 617 while getting slightly better mileage.

I think the price on that example looks a little steep.

sasquatchgeoff · #3 10-09-2009, 06:28 PM

Yup - aluminum head - 603.961 - could be #14 head - never know til you look at the part # on the head itself. Some were recalled and went to the dealer to have the heads replaced with a more robust, re-engineered head.

http://static.zoovy.com/merchant/epsparts/Mercedes_Chassis.htm#B1985

Jeremy5848 · #4 10-09-2009, 06:30 PM

"A/C needs a recharge" is an excuse. If it was that simple, why didn't the seller do it? Be prepared for very expensive climate control repairs if you buy this one. Otherwise not a bad car, this is an "S-class" Mercedes (126 body), a foot longer than the 300D. It's a great highway cruiser but tight city streets and parallel parking will be a bit more challenging. Beware of body damage under the new paint job. If you go look, have the car thoroughly inspected by a reputable mechanic.

ah-kay · #5 10-09-2009, 07:25 PM

Iwouldpassonthisone.

On one would be in their right mind to spend $3K on a paint job and not get the A/C working first. Paint job is normally the last item to fix in my opinion. If he is so good with the car, he can fiddle with the odo and fix A/C. It is kind of fishy to me.

Sev · #6 10-09-2009, 08:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sasquatchgeoff

Yup - aluminum head - 603.961 - could be #14 head - never know til you look at the part # on the head itself. Some were recalled and went to the dealer to have the heads replaced with a more robust, re-engineered head.

http://static.zoovy.com/merchant/epsparts/Mercedes_Chassis.htm#B1985

good link, i'll take a look at that.

MercFan · #7 10-09-2009, 08:23 PM

I do hope this SD fever that's got me will soon pass... why can't I just be happy with my trusty old 300D?! No... I have to dream about an SD and now I'm looking as far as California - it's crazy. Are there any pills for this condition...

I might need 'em.

sasquatchgeoff · #8 10-09-2009, 08:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MercFan

I do hope this SD fever that's got me will soon pass... why can't I just be happy with my trusty old 300D?! No... I have to dream about an SD and now I'm looking as far as California - it's crazy. Are there any pills for this condition...

I might need 'em.

yes there is a remedy - its called #14 head

(use that as a search term here to learn more)

Sev · #9 10-09-2009, 08:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MercFan

I do hope this SD fever that's got me will soon pass... why can't I just be happy with my trusty old 300D?! No... I have to dream about an SD and now I'm looking as far as California - it's crazy. Are there any pills for this condition...

I might need 'em.

that SD's only like 15 miles from me, too. you think it's worth it to drive all the way to cali to pick it up though?

buffa98 · #10 10-09-2009, 08:37 PM

yes there is a remedy - its called #14 head - AKA "rodbender"

(use that as a search term here to learn more)
__________________
Any # head can give issues. I have a #14 on mine 235,xxx so far no issues from a head stand point. Of course when the time comes for some head work I intend to shop around for a new (to me) head.

Crazy_Nate · #11 10-09-2009, 08:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sasquatchgeoff

yes there is a remedy - its called #14 head - AKA "rodbender"

(use that as a search term here to learn more)

Those are two separate issues. The #14 head is susceptible to cracking...the 3.5L (later SDLs / 350SD) was the so called rod-bender.

Caveat emptor for the A/C...recharge...why doesn't the owner just charge it and have working A/C?

sasquatchgeoff · #12 10-09-2009, 09:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Crazy_Nate

Those are two separate issues. The #14 head is susceptible to cracking...the 3.5L (later SDLs / 350SD) was the so called rod-bender.

Caveat emptor for the A/C...recharge...why doesn't the owner just charge it and have working A/C?

I stand corrected...

MercFan · #13 10-09-2009, 10:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sev

that SD's only like 15 miles from me, too. you think it's worth it to drive all the way to cali to pick it up though?

Don't know if this particular one is THE one... I just have an SD fever in general... and I can't seem to shake it. Looking on CL there is a number of fine looking cars in LA area by Colorado standards anyway... It would be best if I could get over wanting this SD so bad...