It's been done... info on putting a chevy v8 in a 123
 

Hey all.

First, I realize that topic pisses people off but I searched and didn't find what I was looking for so if nothing else, it should be a good discussion...

Has anyone seen or done a motor swap in a w115 220D? I'm talking about removing the oil-burner and dropping in a v8.

I know someone has done it with a 289.

I was wondering if anyone has any experience with a small block Chevy. While the Ford is a good motor, I'm much more likely to find a good used 350 here in my neck of the woods. I'm not entirely sure how much bigger the 350 is but I don't think it's by much. The Ford had the distributor in the front which is nice and the Chevy has it in the rear which could be a problem.

I know what most of you are thinking: why? Well, the OM617 is showing signs of low compression--PITA to start even after a new battery and a valve adjustment. I could get a used 350 for much less than a used diesel motor and, lets be honest, the thing would be a blast to drive.

So, what do you know?

Thanks!

I've seen them for sale on ebay with 350's in them.
I'll move this thread to the performance section to avoid some of the heckling...

the problem is you are asking a diesel crowd for information on putting a gasser motor in the car... and a non german engine to boot...

My buddy put a 327 in a W115 years ago. As I remember, the oil pan was difficult and the exhaust had to be run around the front of the engine to join the other on the one side. He was an experienced mechanic and it was NOT a clean install...

did this about 20 years ago using a Racing Head Service 406 ci small block and built up 400 turbo trans for a customer, ended up around 15k and could not tell from the outside or inside, that anything was done

some starting parts

motor mounts ~~~ transdapt mounts for landcruiser to small block
oil pan ~~~ 1966-1967 chevy II pan and oil pump
exhaust ~~~ hedman hugger headers
radiator ~~~ stock 123
power steering ~~~ GM pump
oil filter ~~~ remote mount kit
fuel system ~~~ holley projection TBI

Honestly, you can fine good 617 engines cheap. You can buy the whole car for 5-800 bucks, get the engine out of it and scrap the rest...