Greetings,

I think you have made a wise choice looking for a 300SD. I own a '84 model and have enjoyed it since day one. It handles nicer than the 123 model with it's broader stance and truely is a silent runner going down the road. Not saying I haven't fixed a few petty items on this car since I got it back several months ago. Things like a window motor and rear tail light lens and a window switch. All of these items can be bought from recyclers at a very good price and with a total of $2000.00 paid for the car in a rust free condition I feel I got a great deal on a car that really does perform. As mentioned before, I would check out the climate control system, steering system, suspension in general, overall interior condition and all windows and options. These are all bargaining items in order to lower your final price, and most are cheaply repaired if you do them yourself. To check excessive blowby of the engine, simply remove the oil fill cap on the valve cover while the engine is running and see how much puffing smoke comes back at you. Very little and all is fine, slight puffing and it will still outlast any new American car, heavy puffing and chances are good it will most likely still see another 60,000 miles or more before major work will need to be done. All of this is in line with how well the engine starts, idles and actually runs out on the road.

Good Luck,

Charles

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"Tell me and I will listen, Teach me and I will learn, Show me and I will accomplish, Involve me and I will succeed."
'84 300SD 256,000 Gold on Brown (Mileage Award)
'86 300E 246,000 Blue on Tan