Originally Posted by Pants

(Sorry for doubling up on this issue - found this thread and thought it was more on point for my concerns than the other thread I started on the same issue - which has divergent opinions...)

I've read (maybe not absorbed fully) too many threads on vacuum-pumps at this point. Seems in particular that Sixto & gsxr speak with authority, certainly on a simple question like mine: do I indeed have something to fear from my vac pump, 1983 300SD (OM617), as pictured? If it matters, it's stamped with the Pierburg name/logo. I can pretty easily pull the pump at this point if need be to look for the roller/camfollower per Sixto's photo, but I can't well afford a "replace it just in case" pump right now.

A little help? Make sure no plastic-caged bearings? Really necessary to pull it?

Thanks - Dave