I've been hearing about these trap oxider diesel models and some sort of a recall to replace or remove them (not sure which) - are there specific years of these models ?
One year I heard is 1987.
Anyway, just want to be better aware of this while I'm on the lookout for a newer used diesel to be unloaded by a caring owner.
(Also, are there some diesels that use catalytic converters that I should be aware of ?)

The 1986-87 OM 603 diesels were fitted with trap ox. They had many failures, so MB was allowed to retro-fit these cars with oxdiation catalyst(under car). IF the car in question has had the mod then the car should be GREAT! These engines are a good choice as long as they don't overheat!! Only 1986 calif. cars have traps from factory.

Thanks, M.B.Doc !

RE - "Only 1986 calif. cars have traps from factory."

I'm confused about the above comment after the mention of 86-87 model years and the oxidation catalyst modifications.
Does this mean 86 Calif cars were not allowed the modification ?
Also, do these catalysts have a limited lifespan and wear out ? Just so I can figure out, based on when the modifications were allowed (starting which year after the failures ?) so I can figure in on possible replacement cost when looking at one of these cars for possible purchase.

Thanks for your help.

VA300SD ('81)

1985 California Versions only
1986 300SDL California Version only
1987 All

I have an '86 300SDL non-California version. It came from the factory without the trap oxidizer.

No trap oxidizer + No overheating = No problems.

Just one more clarification -

This oxidizer catalyst - was this something that was installed only as a replacement for the traps or did the non-California cars come with the catalyst ?
I'm gathering the traps were just for California models and the catalyst was a corrective measure for them.

Thanks again for all your help.

Emission componets are required to go 10 yrs, so after having to replace 1000s+ of the traps MB designed the oxidation cat for the cars(simular to the 1995 E300D). The new version should last as long as the injection pump isn't too rich. As far as I know no one has the equiptment to measure the emissions on diesels except for U.S. gov. This generation of engines are pretty darn good as long as the cooling system is good!

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MERCEDES BENZ MASTER GUILD TECHNICIAN
ASE MASTER TECHNICIAN
27 YEARS DEALER M.B. TECH
190E 2.3 ITS RACECAR