I'd be curious to know if this car has been run on VO in some form, and for how long, and whether or not anyone thinks that may have contributed to the situation. Using ether to start a MB diesel engine is a known possible cause; did you ever use ether?

__________________
Respectfully,
/s/
M. Dillon
'87 124.193 (300TD) "White Whale", ~392k miles, 3.5l IP fitted
'95 124.131 (E300) "Sapphire", 380k miles
'73 Balboa 20 "Sanctification"
Charleston SC