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

[tide13]

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!