I picked up a 1985 300D a few weeks ago for $400. Texas car so rust free except for 2 small spots on passenger floor and spot on rear quarter. clearcoat is peeling and someone sanded the hood, top, and truck down. Lots of dents and dings. It runs good, glow plugs aren't working and vacuum pump isn't working. The plans are to get it back on the road and if I like it, i will fix the dents and dings and paint it.

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I'll post updated photos here and video updates here
The $400 85 300D Video Thread

Here is the playlist of the project videos. I'll try to keep the playlist updated as I go along.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeYmvdiw3Xm87mFck3FjQ12ZoTSFXZ0Rr

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1985 Mercedes 300D bought for $400 work in progress. Video Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLeYmvdiw3Xm87mFck3FjQ12ZoTSFXZ0Rr

If your vacuum pump isn't working, that thing is gonna destroy the timing gear and possibly drop the little bearings in the oil pan. I'd not run it at all until that's replaced.

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Only diesels in this driveway.
2005 E320 CDI 243k Black/Black
2008 Chevy 3500HD Duramax 340k
2004 Chevy 2500HD Duramax 220k