Alan - Glad to hear you are doing well with your 300D in MN. The syn. Rotella certainly is a fine oil and, as you say, will easily extend the oil change interval. My 83 300D heater was toasty warm so suspect control valve in the heater hose line does need to be replaced as you suggest - an easy DIY job. The loose front end can be improved considerably by removing the backlash in the steering gear box. On top of the steering gear box there is a big slotted screw with a lock nut around it. I had Werner Huber do this for me as I didn't want to over-tighten the backlash. Oh, one other thing - winter tires. While I ran all season Michelin's on my 83 300D year round, many owners report really liking a winter specific tire like Michelin's Alpin. I currently have a set of Pilot (H speed rated version) Alpins on my 89 300TE and do like the improved winter braking, steering and traction on hard-packed snow and ice. I live in Edina if you ever have Twin Cities or local questions - enjoy! Regards, - Wayne

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04 GMC Yukon XL Denali, Black, 12k
02 New Beetle, TDI, Reflex Silver, 24k
89 300TE, Arctic White, 214k

90 300E, 142k (sold)
87 300TD, 128k (sold)
83 300D, 314k (sold)
79 300TD, 266k (sold)

Share your knowledge -

Wayne