The radiator was smashed in the accident. Apparently he rear ended something with a towing hitch on it. The bumper and lights are fine but the grill, cross member/light housing frame, and hood are trashed.

Yes, I'm hooked. Down the rabbit hole and licked the mushroom yesterday! I'm looking at a couple of parts cars in the greater Humboldt area between $250 and $600.

How much (ballpark) am I looking at to rebuild the trans? And what model/year transmissions will work for an 82 240D if I found one? (i.e. will 300d trans fit in a 240d?)

I found a Wiki page for the 240D but it just mentions changes to the engine and not the trans.

You guys are awesome, thanks for the advice!