I would not be concerned about the displayed total milage. With some exceptions one can not be very sure about whatever is currently indicated on 123 diesel cars is accurate anyways.

I would either take the kind offer from the site member or get one at a pick and pull. You could ask him since he has several what they are currently displaying on their odometers. Remember that head has to come from a 240d. It is calibrated to the rear axle ratio and all 240ds where the same except perhaps for the 240 station wagon that was never sold in north america that I know of.

I am always happy to see individuals start to do their own work. To me the total upside is much better than the other way on older cars. Also it helps when having to make decisions on perhaps other cars in the future.

Unfortunatly too many people do not know enough and quite often get abused when purchasing paid for service. The frustrations and learning experiences can stand you in good condition to make future decisions as well. Unless you are really rolling in money the maintenance of a thirty year old car can become very prohibitive with everything hired out. It is bad enough with you doing the work sometimes. All members that service their own cars as much as is practical knew about as much as you do when they started. Todays cars are too complex in comparison except for brakes,suspension and minor things to start on in my opinion. The 616 engined cars set up is an ideal starter.