Pros and cons of converting '85 CA model W123 diesel to a fed version. - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

lietuviai · #1 08-31-2004, 11:30 AM

I have recently converted the intake and exhaust system on my '85 300D from a CA emissions version to a fed version. In the begininng it seemed like a fairly simple swap until I tried to install the fed air cleaner. You do need to use the intake & exhaust manifolds, turbo and aircleaner from the fed version in order to make it work properly. The intake & exhaust manifolds, turbo alone are not going to work with the CA air cleaner. It doesn't fit right. The fed air cleaner fits but you need to relocate the A/C lines and the turbo's oil line in order for it to fit right. I still haven't figured out how to install the oil tube that runs from the air cleaner back down to the oil pan so for now I have simply run a rubber line to an old oil bottle for it. It hasn't collected much oil yet. It seems there are many differences between the two models beyond just the intake & exhaust manifolds, turbo and aircleaner. I managed to get everything to fit by bending and rerouting the A/C lines but the entire job was a big PITA. I do have more power and better fuel economy now and plus I am rid of the oxidizing catalyst plus now I won't have to shell out the $30+ for the air filters and there seems to be much more room under the hood.
Would I do it again if I got a another '85 CA model?
Probably not.

vwbuge · #2 09-01-2004, 12:35 AM

Sorry to hear of your troubles. I guess the 123 is a little different. It was well worth it on my car. Of course, my catalyst had sprung a lead and it was either get a new one or try to weld it or do the swap. The job on my 126 wasn't really hard, just time consuming. I had another car at standby for parts also.
I did notice one thing that was peculiar. The oil tube you speak of that drains directly back down to the oil pan is absent on my car. I noticed it on the donor car but my car didn't have a hole for it.

lietuviai · #3 09-01-2004, 05:21 PM

I didn't have the pipe at the start of the swap. I tried to fish it down to where it needs to go but I couldn't get it in. I haven't found the plug to where it needs to go anyway. I'll have to keep on eye on the oil bottle I have the hose running from the aircleaner for now.