I ran a used OM617.952 on the ground before installing it. As I recall, it was on a small rolling engine stand. The diesel came from 2 hoses in a 2 gal fuel jug. I connected the exhaust to not bother the neighbors since the pipe was out anyway. I connected the radiator, but not needed for a few short runs. Fortunately, the starter bolts to the engine block (or adapter plate), whereas in my old Mopars, the starter bolts to the transmission.

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1984 & 1985 CA 300D's
1964 & 65 Mopar's - Valiant, Dart, Newport
1996 & 2002 Chrysler minivans