200,000 mile maintenance items 240D/300TD 123 series

[Carrameow]

My 240D with a rebuilt engine is approaching 200,000 miles.
I just bought an 85 300D with 230K. Besides stuff like brakes, shocks, etc., what are the most critical maintenance items. Should i replace the timing chain? Is it mandatory? Should the Autotrans still be strong or be rebuilt? Is the Turbo still good or should it be replaced?
One thing I will probably do is change out the Alternator or at least the brushes, since my 240D alternator died at 200K

[TN-W124 Diesel]

I would definitely change the timing chain out, What about your valves? A little money spent on the top end, can save you big dollars. For as the transmission, Change filter fluid and drive.

[longston]

First, do you have any maintenance records from the previous owner(s)? Next, I wouldn't needlessly spend money replacing stuff that isn't worn out. Sure, it's easy to guess at things like, timing chain, motor mounts, valve adjustment, alternator brushes, transmission fluid and filter, air filter, engine oil and filter, fuel filters, etc, etc...

If you don't have a clear owner maintenance history on the car (or even if you do), the first thing I would do is take it to the best independent Mercedes mechanic in your area, and pay to have them do a pre-sales inspection (yes, I know you already bought the car...).

The hour or so labor is an excellent investment, and may tell you things that you hadn't even thought of, and will keep you from spending money on stuff that doesn't need doing instead of fixing what is really in need of repair and/or maintenance right now that you might've missed otherwise.

Then, get back to us and ask questions based upon the evaluation of your mechanic, if you need to.

[Edited by longston on 02-18-2001 at 11:02 PM]