108 250 SE: What would you do?

[Vegestar]

No Worries! This is all constructive no matter if we get off topic.

So just to give you all an idea where this stands: I going to have to remove the engine/trans either way. I am going to attempt to fix the original engine and then set it aside while I test fit the diesel components. If it looks like like I'm over my head with fabrication or parts costs I'm gonna bail from the diesel conversion and put it back to stock.

...you must not have priced pistons, bearings, or the other parts you'll end up replacing when rebuilding the engine...

Pistons for my 450SEL, a full set, cost $1,200...

OK, here's my experience with MB pistons... 116/117 pistons are not in very high demand. I've rebuilt plenty of cast iron block 117's, only replaced one set of pistons. Usually we would just pop the pistons out, inspect the rings and bearings, and set them aside for assembly later. Usually cleaning the oil control rings and grooves was in order, occasionally we would hone the block and replace the rings. Long story short, you're pistons were $1200 because nobody ever buys them. Now, the 6 cylinder pistons are another story. Very high in demand mainly due to the fact that there are so many different variations in the same basic design group. Piston design changed almost yearly... However, if you are patient deals can be found if you shop around on Ebay and such, usually in the $500-600 range. Alot of times standard pistons can be found at a steal, mostly because they have been sitting on a shelf for 20 years waiting for someone to need them. I can recall a few occurrences where we sleeved an engine back to standard to accommodate piston availability.

So, with all that said, I am honestly not planning to do anything else than grind the crank and replace the bearings. Maybe recondition the rod if necessary. These days I have learned to turn a blind eye, especially if I'm trying to turn a profit. Are Mercedes parts cheap? Hell no! Am I good at deciphering what I really need and shopping around for the best possible deal? Yes, but that is just me.

So bear with me folks, its gonna be a few weeks until I have the car in my possession, and even longer until I have time to play with it. And only then will my dream of a diesel powered 108 be squashed or come to fruition.

[Petteri K]

Here´s my W115 with a newer 88 Hp OM617. Lot of cleaning and such to do. Notice the oil filter on the right, with the older OM617 You do not need that.. The good thing is that the motor mounts are the same, if I looked right at my W108!

[686point3]

Originally Posted by WANT '71 280SEL

...you must not have priced pistons, bearings, or the other parts you'll end up replacing when rebuilding the engine...

Pistons for my 450SEL, a full set, cost $1,200...

Best Regards,

David

Absolutely no offense, but where did you buy those pistons?
I would avoid that place.
Talk to me before you buy another part and I will find it for you cheaper !

Alex

[Vegestar]

I am fully aware of the differences in early and late 617s. I would actually prefer a 617A but I doubt that it would fit without more in-depth modification. But you know I'm gonna try it in there anyway.