Considering Buying 1987 300 SDL - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Cigar Havana · #1 01-31-2003, 12:01 AM

I'm considering buying a 1987 300 SDL. The guy told me he replaced the engine in Oct. 2002 with a used engine that had 100,000 miles on it. He actually opened the head, and looked at each cylinder, to make sure it was good. The original car has 230,000 miles on it. No rust, new paint in Oct. 2002 along with new brakes, glow plugs, exhaust(German), starter, water pump. The seller is a mechanic, services MBs and services the some of the Toronto MB Club member's cars. I'm going to look at it next week.

Any comments, recommendations or cautions? What should I look for?

What do you think it is worth?

sixto · #2 01-31-2003, 01:52 PM

Comment: You're a smart one for wanting an SDL

Recommendation: Get a second opinion including compression and leak down tests. Anyone who knows these engines knows that when you pull the head, you check the HEAD. He should have emphasized this if he were out to gain my confidence. The cylinders will look new at 100K on all but the most abused engines.

Caution: If the engine's been overheated, you'll be in for a less than fun time with it. See how tight the upper radiator is shortly after a cold start. It should be pinchable with coolant flowing through it (before the thermostat opens). If it feels like there's pressure in the hose, it's likely that the head has cracks.

If.. rather WHEN you do a forum search on 300SDL, don't be too frightened about all the mention of head cracks. Many SDLs get to 300K with no problems. The typcial worst case is US$3000 for a new head. Certainly worth the added investment in a keeper SDL.

Anyone know if Canadian SDLs came with a trap oxidizer?

Sixto
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD

Lance Allison · #3 01-31-2003, 02:50 PM

I've been through it (mostly) all with my 300SDL and I still love it. These cars are relatively hard on suspension, brakes, and tires. Minor mostly, but some suspension parts (especially rear) can be pricey.

My car came with books and records and was given great care...however, after a short time, I ended up needed to replace a cracked head. I had mine done at an MB dealer and got raked more than $5200 for the job.

A PPI really should be considered. You can tell a lot about engine health from leakdown and compression tests.

I've seen several transmissions needing major work/overhauls around the 200-250k mile mark. Mine was replaced at 220k and it had the fluid/filter attended to regularly. Not too bad $$$-wise. The work was done at a dealer for about $2000, having the transmission and torque converter replaced.

AC components and the HVAC control panel should be thoroughly checked out. Potentially expensive here, too.

Never, never run these cars hot. Be certain to have the cooling system checked. The fan clutch, radiator, and aux cooling fan should all be in working order.

I think you'll find the 300SDL a really nice car and most normal maintaince items relatively inexpensive.

Best of luck and keep us posted.