My 98 300E DT went in today for its new oil pump, what I was thinking of doing, is seeing if I can find a lab to test the oil in 1,000 km;s intervals, and see what is is like.

One must remember these new diesels hold double what most cars do, 8 litres.

Not to mention the quality of oil has jumped.

But I agree, it is hard to get used to these recommendations, I cringe at the thought actually.