It was mentioned in an earlier post that the vacuum pump will need replacement every 150-200kmi , as well as the serpentine belt tensioner every 50-100k, and cooling system parts (fan clutch & radiator) with some frequency. What do these parts tend to run?

It seems to me that I need to find a car that was really maintained well, so that the trap oxidizer removal was done in good time to prevent engine cracking. I read about the trap oxidizer issue several days ago when I started looking at these turbo diesels, but I was unaware that the ramifications of it could be so dire.

For the time being I'm going to try to find a car around here that I can see and take to the mechanic that was recommended to me in this wonderful forum. I very much appreciate engatwork's (Jim's) suggestion regarding the car in Georgia, but for a variety of reasons I can't get out of LA for some time.

So it appears that the 1986 SDL has the same six cylinder engine? I would imagine it would be the end of the year '86 model, is that right, or was it throughout the year?

I understand that the 300D is lighter and similar, and has better acceleration. How much smaller is it? Do you give up a lot of the wonderful rear seat room of the SDL? Lastly, are there models of the '86 300D which have the six cylinder turbo diesel without the trap oxidizer?

Once again, thanks guys.

Peter4