I am in northern California.

The car I was looking at is a '79 300SD with 74k miles (the speedo comments above now make me wonder if this is legit.) The motor runs, but there is a problem with the trans so it doesn't drive. $300.

I have found another '82 300SD pulled motor with 171k with all the accessories for $400 (might take offer.)

Missed an '85 locally for $650, unknown mileage.

I think I will pass on both of these and look for a later model still running so I can drive it for a while to make sure all is good before going through all of the installation work.

I have the adapter all worked out, a shop called 4x4 labs makes the adapter kits.

So more questions:

How do you test compression on a diesel?(This shows my lack of diesel knowledge.) I have a compression tester, but don't know where to hook it up on a diesel.

What should the compression be on a OM617?

How do you measure the chain stretch? I have read that the chain needs to be changed before 200k.

Did all models have only a 5 digit odometer? Suprised to hear that.

What is the max mileage (assuming it is correct) that I should be looking for in a donor engine?

What price to engines normally sell for? Seems like the '82 mentioned above might be worth that price for just spare parts?

Thanks again,
Guy