I just spent another $540 for a new factory rebuilt alternator, new front brake pads and a new vacuum hose (fr. vac pump to brake booster) for my 84 300DT with 257k. I've spent $2100 already this year for : 4 new tires, rear axles, shocks, rear brake pads, plus I'm looking at a front end job ($800) and various leaks (turbo oil return, vacuum pump, oil pan , front crank seal ($500).. and a tranny rebuilt is looming in the horizon($$$ouch$$$)....are you getting dizzy already...I am (Gulp!!! drink of H2O).. so what do you think guys ..keep the baby( interior excellent and engine is strong and paid for or buy a newer car ?)

Welcome to the hotel California. I am a charter member too..

Actually, Tx, I think the $540 was for multiple parts. Somebody correct me if I am mistaken...
and to answer the gentleman's question. I am still happy with my car. It's almost finished for less $$ than a hundya and I feel confident in driving it ANYWHERE.

Secondly I found a mechanic I am in love with (almost literally after my dealership experiences) He is well versed in Mercedes and charges $35 per hour !!WAHHHOOO!!!

The job broke down like this:

alternator -$199 (factory rebuilt BOSCH) / labor-75.00 (1 hr.)
fr.brake pads -$57.27 (oem) / labor -65.00
brake paste- 3.27
brake fluid -4.45
brake sensor - 14.00
brake booster line- 44.00/labor -37.50

labor-177.50
parts-324.17
tax-25.12
total-526.79

TOO MUCH OR JUST FAIR? remember i live in cali we have sun tax added to everything!!!!

Ah, the joys of owning an old diesel benz!

The stuff you had repaired is easy to do. I didn't realize this myself until a friend of mine showed me. Considering that, you could have saved yourself $300+easy. Don't be afraid to try some things yourself if you feel somewhat mechanically inclined. This site is the best resource I have ever found when it comes to advice. The parts and service from Phil at fastlane are of good quality. Phil is #1 service oriented as well. He stands behind the parts. Try fastlane and you will see. This is just my experience.

Thanks for your input....NOW maybe i'll have enough cahones to try the repairs myself...now is the front suspension system something I can tackle easily....I read some threads here about the dreaded adventures on replacing the ball joint on this vehicle...whadya think....