So today I get under the car. The oil change began Friday night, and ended last night. So I looked around a little bit.
There seems to be a vigorous oil leak coming form the gasket on the injection pump. Healthy as in enough of a leak to keep itself clean at the leak point rather than buggering up with dust and debris and becoming a grease blob.
The suspension and steering components appear to be rather new. The nuts are not covered in debris or rust. I didn't look at the upper control arms yet, but I have the feeling they are recent.
The lower ball joints, however, do not look so good. Both show a lot of rust staining, and there is bare metal sowing on the driver's side. These are coming out ASAP.
The front shocks aren't leaking fluid, but they are not what I would consider "OEM", they were never made for this car. The rubber bushings are cracked from age, so out they go.
I am not looking forward to replacing the pump gasket, but it will be happening soon. If I remember right, I start by removing the vacuum pump. I suppose it will get an inspection then as well. I'll have to save up some cash and get on it in a couple of weeks.

Any advise appreciated!

Cheers,

snapped_bolt

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'81 240D For now, a good place to borrow new parts
'80 300TD Probably will be put back into service!
'79 240D BACK IN SERVICE SINCE 09/16; limited use, oil leak. Guide pin r/sealed/replaced. Still a leak. Front crank seal....