Yes the valve broke and is lodged in one piston. Can this one be worked on and replced or do all have to be done?
The model is not common. Any idea where parts can be found? A shop in San Francisco Bay Area that would not shy away from this model? (Ma Benz located a rebuilt engine-lookin for alternatives.)
The dealer says that when the valve broke, the engine went into advance instead of typical retard. What does this imply?
Thanks in advance.

Was the timing chain broken ??? THERE is a service information about timing chain stretch & related damage to this engine!!! All dealers should have warned you on this possibility!!

I would have the one cyl repaired and put back together. Be sure to check for bent rods!!!

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

I had the engine rebuilt last year on my 93
300SD (603.971 engine). NOT cheap. At the
time, there was no rebuilt engine available
from MB. Whomever you use, make sure that
they have MB diesel experience. I under-
stand that you must buy a 'set of 6' pistons
to ensure that the differences in weight
between each piston is within tolerance.

At the same time (depending on mileage, etc.) you may want to have the injector pump checked and other components checked and
replaced. A cracked injector was found in
mine.

If you do a rebuild, you should consider
replacing the head. There was a change in
the design of the heads.

I had the work done by a mechanic here in CT.
Great job!!

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Ralph Burnette
1993 300SD

I replaced the engine in a 300SDL last year with a factory crate engine and it is awesome.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

The remanufactured engine from MB is
probably a better way to go if for no
other reason than the warranty. The
issue for me at the time was availability
(there were none). My impression is that
there are more 603.971 engines in the
pipeline now.

Considering the cost of a remanufactured
engine, I recommend getting an
experienced (MB diesel) shop to do it.
Not doing so is somewhat like spending
$300,000 on a piece of property and have
the bank's lawyer 'represent you' just to
save $400.

------------------
Ralph Burnette
1993 300SD

Thank you to all the respondents. The car is at the local MBZ dealer awaiting a decision. I appreciate your advice.