I came to Kodiak Island, Alaska to work the salmon season about six weeks ago and these goof balls want to keep me on full time. They're letting me go back to Oregon to get my stuff before driving it back to stay. This, combined with the recent revelation that replacing the rear windshield seal isn't a diy job, confirmed by my MB mechanic who won't do the work and said there's only one glass shop that will, got me thinking: while I'm back in Portland, what's the most difficult diy work to do that I need a mechanic for, and what parts should I source from the junkyard while I can? I haven't seen a single older MB on the streets here, so I'd be reluctant to have any mechanic do any work on my 82 300SD (337k miles).

Any ideas?

Make a list of what's broken then prioritize. I just finished Mach's oil cooler line conversion. It was a pita & I'm glad it's done. The next one will be cake. Before that the suspension got all new parts. Also, the cruise works now, the oil drain tube doesn't leak. The list goes on.

Look at things that will be really affected by cold. Pack extra blow plugs (after changing) and make sure the glow system is perfect.

People say that many places won't ship to Alaska. Take that into consideration when deciding.

__________________
85SD 240K & stopped counting painted, putting bac together. 84SD 180,000. sold to a neighbor and member here but I forget his handle. The 84 is much improved from when I had it. 85TD beginning to repair to DD status. Lots of stuff to do.

How far away from Portland is where you are going? ( RE what is the shipping time like )

How long do you plan on working there? ( RE do you want to work this job in your 60's ? )

What is public transportation like between new home and work?

I'd make the case to buy a ( newer ) car that is popular locally to assure a parts and service supply. Old car, remote area, missing work can be a bad thing. You can still keep the MB just have a reliable backup.

Agreed. You need something that runs. That's why I have 3 licensed & insured vehicles. One always runs - usually 2 AND the rental place is within walking distance from me.

People in TN don't kid when they say "I've got every car I've ever owned in the back yard." My wife draws the line at keeping the transmission in the bath tub. Guess I'd better buy a big parts washer.

__________________
85SD 240K & stopped counting painted, putting bac together. 84SD 180,000. sold to a neighbor and member here but I forget his handle. The 84 is much improved from when I had it. 85TD beginning to repair to DD status. Lots of stuff to do.