I picked up this 1995 E300D SE, 127k mi, for $3700. Knowing little about MB Diesels, I jumped at the chance and have no regrets. I'm giving the car a lot of attention trying to do stock 100k+ miles stuff.

So far, I've had the clogged master cyclinder, brakes, rotors, bushings, oil & o-rings done. I'm now getting to the other issue, shifting. It shifts hard between 2nd & 3rd with a distinct metal thunk from the rear. The oil change and o-rings actually improved it. From what little I understand I need to have the vacuum lines and transmission cable adjusted. Also doing a diesel purge for the injectors.

Other symptoms, white smoke and high revs on cold starts & I can't get the cruise to work (not even sure how, hold for 2s?) What else would you suggest I inspect and replace to keep this stallion going till 400k mi. Lastly, is a nickname bestowed or imagined?