I seem to remember reading a similar post a long time back, can't remember if it was here or at the rec.mercedes newsgroup. I believe the speculation at that time, was heated chunks of carbon being blown out the tailpipe, a result of the Italian tune-up.

Can't say I have ever seen this happen in a diesel, but have seen it with a gas engine, especially when the timing was off (or caused on purpose, old time stick shifters know that trick).

__________________
Mike Tangas
'73 280SEL 4.5 (9/72)- RIP
Only 8,173 units built from 5/71 thru 11/72

'02 CLK320 Cabriolet - wifey's mid-life crisis

2012 VW Jetta Sportwagon TDI...at least its a diesel

Non illegitemae carborundum.