Have a chance to purchase a 1986 with 235K, general inspection leaves one wondering how so many miles and so little wear showing. Just perfect inside and out. What should I look for as problems with this car???? Hope for some quick replies since I need to make up my mind this afternoon. Is going for 3800 under top book!

I looked for 3 years for an 86-87 300DSL. 4 Months ago I finally located the deal I wanted. Miles is not always a problem. Sagging seat, trans problems and injector pump.
Many cars are going way under book price in the last 6 months. Repairs are expense!! That $3800 savings won't cover an engine rebuild. Look at the details of prior repairs.
My prior owner complained (not to me) about lack of power and brake vibration to the local MB dealer.
Dealer recomended new injector pump etc $2000+ and replacing rotors, ABS sensors, calipers and etc $1950. In fact fuel filters and rotors was all it needed $225.

Good luck.

It sounds a good buy especially if it has a new head. The stock head is weak. I have seen several cars with 603 engine have had a new head as early as 120000 miles. Be sure the engine sounds normal. A bent rod or a loose timing chain gives noises. The 603 engine sometimes gives valve tapping noise during startup and it should be very quiet after warmup (comparing to 617 engine). The 603 engine does not give out smoke from the oil filler hole when you open cap while idling. But if you see a little smoke, it is okay. Look thru the oil filler hole while engine is off; the cam should be smooth and shiny. You can tell the degree of blow-by by looking at the the air filler, around the oil filler hole, and the cross-over joint (intake manifold) on top of the valve cover. Other major areas to check are the coolant color, tranny fuild color, A/C system.

603 is a good engine. But like buying any other used car, it is better to find someone know about the car to check it out.

Good luck.

David

Well I bought the car, did not smell the tranny fluid, and I should know that. Started well after several months of sitting, has one problem with RF antilock sensor. Has more power than expected and holds the road like my old 450SEL did. Will check some of the other suggested things. I am the third owner and no mention of head change was made by the gentleman I bought it from, he aquired it at 88K so I will have to check his records which are looking fairly complete. He arived at his house at the same time I did so I feel he is pretty honest with his assesments on the car.

You are really making me jealous. It will take me at least 2 years to find a car like yours. For the price and conditions, you are still ahead of the game if you have to put in a new head or tranny later. Search this forum, you will find posts that talked about the carbon build-up in the intake duct and how to prevent it.

Congratulation and happy dieseling.

David