Hello,

I have a clean rust-free 1979 300D with a tired low-compression engine. It barely starts anymore on cool mornings. While looking for a replacement engine, I was offered a rusted 1976 300D with a strong engine. These cars are of different bodystyles, and I was wondering if the 76 engine would fit in the 79 body. If so, are any modifications necessary, and is it worth the trouble? Old affordable diesels are hard to come by in Québec, and there are not many parts cars out there.

Thanks.

Denis Larsen

Added info. Concerning 123c's question about the compression test: Yes, I have done a compresssion test, and the results were between 160, 180 240, 200, and 260. From what I've been told this is too low for reliable starting.