turbo on a 76 W115?

[hubbard W115]

Hi just got my first Mercedes it's a 76 300D W115. My question is is it possible to put a turbo on it to get a little more power and maybe a little better gas mileage. Right now it runs really well and drive great. Just some rust to take care of. Thanks for any and all help.

[jt20]

Yes it is possible.

You will need more fuel: Injection pump, injectors. Plus different manifolds, oil filter canister and air filter stuff. Likely some more. All that stuff from later engines will swap right over.

The problem with this is that some of the internals are different on this engine (valves, crank pistons and piston squirters along with an oil cooler and oil pump).

your 'modded' engine may not last long depending on how hard you push it. then again, they are quite robust in the bottom end, it could last for some time.

But, Mercedes spent the time and money to make significant changes to the turbo engine that mostly effect longevity, but also to performance.


You'd be much farther ahead by getting a turbo engine and working on it as you drive the car as it is for a while.

[Mike D]

Yup, longevity is the factor as jt mentioned.

I've seen a couple of aftermarket kits but they were all of a "manual over-ride" (had a switch which engaged the turbo utilizing a waste gate flap) and the turbo was only active when needed. Steep hills, passing, merging into freeway traffic, etc.

I believe the manufacturer was Rajay or some such name. Used a standard small Holsett unit with an electrically operated waste gate. Poorly thought out device as the waste gates either stuck shut or became so clogged with soot they couldn't move.

[hubbard W115]

Thank-you guys that's is what I was wondering. It's fine with me if she stays stock was more or less wondering if it could be done without destroying the engine.maybe some day I will do an engine swap but for now she will stay stock. Is it a good idea to run some seafoam through it to clean the fuel system out.or will it just mess things up?

[NZScott]

I recommend checking out the superturbodiesel forum.

I'm just about to bolt on my turbo exhaust housing and manifold to a formerly NA 617 engine before I tow the car to the exhaust shop tomorrow.

I think these engines are stouter than people think but I'll find out for myself - aiming for 180 crank hp.

[sassparilla_kid]

Depending on the turbo and how much boost and fuel you run it should be fine, just don't abuse it

[DieselPaul]

Lots of N/A 240s and 300s out there running turbos.

Easiest would be to investigate just putting a whole turbo 617A into your car. The oil filter housing is for sure different between 115 and 123 but I know people have done it.

Not sure what part of the country you are in but I have a whole running 617 turbo on the shelf that I am trying to sell if you decided to go the swap route.

[hubbard W115]

Thank you everyone for the info.t he turbo is a future idea. First she's got some rust I need to get rid of first. Witch then means new paint witch means new rubber all around and then it's time to have some fun with the engine transmission and such.

[Simpler=Better]

Above all else, install a pyrometer and don't let your pre-turbo exhaust temps go over 1,000*F

[dvalmont]

Originally Posted by DieselPaul

Lots of N/A 240s and 300s out there running turbos.

Easiest would be to investigate just putting a whole turbo 617A into your car. The oil filter housing is for sure different between 115 and 123 but I know people have done it.

Not sure what part of the country you are in but I have a whole running 617 turbo on the shelf that I am trying to sell if you decided to go the swap route.

We should talk DieselPaul, I am also in Columbus OH and own an anemic 73 220D. If OP doesn't want your 617 turbo, I may have some interest.

[hubbard W115]

You can take him up on the 617 if you want I am to far away to even consider taking him up on it. Thanks though.