380SL Diesel Conversion Project - Page 24 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

mach4 · #**346** 07-18-2014, 02:32 AM

I thought it might be time to update the thread with some new data.

When I got the car it had 181k miles on it and now it has 232k miles. So 50k trouble-free daily-driver service.

The engine had presumably 220k miles on it as that was what was showing on the odometer which was still working so that's 270k.

It's now torn apart for a past due timing chain replacement but should be back in service in a day or two.

t walgamuth · #**347** 07-18-2014, 11:46 AM

Cool! I put a good running used 617 turbo in my 39 Studebaker truck so hearing yours was used too makes me feel .....validated?

mach4 · #**348** 07-18-2014, 12:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by t walgamuth

Cool! I put a good running used 617 turbo in my 39 Studebaker truck so hearing yours was used too makes me feel .....validated?

i've been following your thread with great interest. Fantastic project and quality workmanship. I think you'll be happy with the engine. I had the chance to pick up a good running spare engine and transmission for $400, so even if something catastrophic were to happen I could swap in the spare in a couple of days and keep on truckin'. If you've got good compression and oil pressure you should be fine. Everything else is pretty easy to swap. If I'm anywhere near you on one of my road trips, I'd like to swing by, say hi and see the Stude.

t walgamuth · #**349** 07-18-2014, 12:24 PM

I'll buy you a beer too. At present the car is in Anderson In, but its not too far from here. Hopefully I'll have it running and driving soon!

deejaaa · #**350** 07-20-2014, 11:36 PM

thanks for the great read. i saw the link posted on a vw site and i just love the older MB's so i had to read it all.

mach4 · #**351** 06-13-2015, 07:35 PM

It's been awhile since I updated this build thread. The primary design criteria for the swap was to create a fun, reliable and economical daily driver with the ability to be a comfortable open road cruiser. It's been cross country three times, as well as to Canada and Arkansas.

The car now has 83,000 miles on it since the swap was completed, so it's pretty well achieved its goals. The chassis has 264k and the engine 290k.

mercmad6.3 · #**352** 06-14-2015, 01:54 AM

Great going!!! . i drive a 300D manual as my daily and was thinking of replacing it's engine with a later 6 cyl turbo diesel. After looking closely at one I have decidfed the old OM 617 will stay put ...especially as it has only done 120,000 in 30 years .

But I wonder how a 107 would go with one of the later engines? Especially with a 722.6 5 speed .