I have been looking at a 1985 300SD. The owner was asking $600 and claimed the trans did not shift from 1st. Thanks to all you good people, I was pointed in the direction of the kickdown switch. I bought the car, brought it home, checked the fluid (red and normal smell), and test drove it. Sure enough, no shift out of low gear. I checked the kickdown switch and found it stuck. I released it and test drove. It shifted positively into 4th! this car is rust free and dent free. A little clear coat peeling is all. A/C is cold and all accessories work. I think it will need glow plugs, as it has a hard cold start. there is power when the key is turned. Is there an ohm spec on these things?

Thanks,
Mark in NC
1985 300SD Turbo Diesel
247,000 mi