1987 300tdt
 

Hi new to this site, got it from Mercedes Enthusiast article on Diesel Mercs in America. Have just acquired an immaculately kept 1987 300TDT with 160k on it, rebuilt engine and tranny. My question is, I know about the trap oxidiser problem and discussed it with the previous owner who is a devout MB fan. He explained that he did have the trap changed out twice and finally remedied it by having the car retrofitted with a new exhaust supplied by MB dealer and in accordance with a recall and refit notification. The car runs really well and its' previous owner was meticulous, even providing the complete service records from new and all receipts. I have read some publications from European websites that say the refit of the new exhaust should solve the trap oxidiser problem, I would just like to know if this is correct. Thank you for any information, and I wish all of you a very Happy New Year!

The trap oxidizer is a large metal canister under the hood located on the right side of the engine right above the turbo. If there is a large canister there, you still have a trap-ox. If there is a aluminum foil covered pipe there, it has been removed under the recall.

Many thanks for the prompt reply. I am at a loss as to where the aluminium foil covered pipe should be, there is one, directly next to the engine, however I also notice a large metal canister that looks like it contains an air filter in front, next to the radiator on the right side.

Dear Friends, I am relieved, as I have since given up on my C280 foolishly I may add, I had been without a MB until this acquisition. I paid quite a bit for it, but am so happy hopping in and running around in my practical but sporting Estate. I am wondering if others use such high milers as daily transport and without fuss or headache, please relay your stories to me if you can. I hope all of you have a Happy New Year!

I have almost 300k on the same engine as in your wagon. I put in a vacuum pump @ 240k, glow plugs @ 260k and replaced the timing chain @ 275k. That's all I had to do to the engine. It's been really good to me.

Turbodiesel thanks for your reply. I am not used to such a high miler, and being in Hawaii, people think I am crazy for purchasing a car with six digit mileage. I also hesitate to say how much I paid for the car as I am sure everyone on this board will yell at me for being a fool! However, with my complete service history in hand, immaculate interior and exterior, my Mercedes Enthusiast mags, and all of you great members, the buyers remorse is quickly dissipating. Last evening as I sped home with my brother visiting from Michigan and a bunch of friends from a late Xmas party, the diesel hardly making a sound, all was well and right with the world.

RYT,

Sounds like you have a great car. I'm sure whatever you paid, it was well worth it. And 160kmi is low for these cars (although maybe not low for Hawaii.) ;) Both of mine have nearly a quarter-million miles! Maybe post some photos of your new baby if you have a chance. Photos of mine, including the modifications done, are here:

http://www.meimann.com/images/mercedes/


Best regards,

Turbodiesel and I have sister ships. 87 SDL's with the same engine as your car, and I think his is the same silver with grey interior as mine. I've only got 293,024 miles and it looks as if he's going to beat me to 300k. 160k is nothing.

Hawaiian members
 

Aloha RYT!----How long have you been in Honolulu? Are you familiar with German Auto Service? My "new" 1984 300D should be arriving soon. After searching the island for a couple of months I opted on purchasing one from California and shipping it over. Where did you pick up your '87? So it looks like you and me from Oahu and Revray from the big island. Any other Hawaiian members around?

Mine is Smoke Sivler with Creme interior, although I wish it was bordeux or black.

Hey 1stimer!!! Lived here except for school all my life, always had an interest in Mercedes, my first car models were old Benzes. Would love to hear stories about your car and I will share with mine. I am hoping to get pics up soon, but New Years has me busy. You would be surprised by the number of W123 diesels I see on the road, and even more surprised by the reaction of people when you tell them you drive a diesel! I would have loved to have a W123 Estate but the ones on the island are all crapped out. Have only seen one in relatively good condition and it must have been an import as it was a 280TE in that Jade Green color you see on the last year or two of the W123s. However all of my friends (who are SUV owners) are in love with my car and would like to get their hands on a diesel estate. They got even more excited when they say Peyton300's beautiful wagon! I hope you all have a Happy New Year and it was nice to hear from you 1stimer!!!