Considering 617 vs 603 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

pawoSD · #1 10-28-2009, 06:20 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by amosfella

I have heard that the 617 engines lose power a lot sooner in life than a 603. They wear the cylinder walls into an oval... The 603 doesn't have this problem, but might in the future have a head problem. If you don't let the 603 overheat, it will give you many years of problem free service....

What you "heard" was actually about the 1991-1993 350SDL/SD engines, which are a 603. The 3.5 liter version. They are notorious for failing due to rod bending.

Personally I'd buy either, but I like the 617 better, it is incredibly durable, has tons of off the line torque (nice in the city, its a rocket)...and I like the sound better....sounds more manly.

Mine has almost 284k on it and can still skitter the tires on dry pavement if I punch it.

The 617 has lower maintenance V-belts/no belt tensioner, and a tough iron head that is more durable in events of cooling system problems....

Valve adjustments are no big deal. Most only need it once a year, twice if you drive a TON. For someone who has done one a few times, it can take as little as 30-40 minutes to complete....its easy.