On Friday I will hopefully(barring any unforseen problems)my '85 300D. Any advice as to what to do prior to return trip? I was going to get the oil changed. or, I may just purchase an oil filter and oil and change it myself. Oh, I'll be driving from Philadelphia to Birmingham.

Thanks

Always nice to have a couple of fuel filters (primary and secondary) with you.

Some V-belts might not be a bad idea if they are in mediocre shape.

Definitely change the oil and filter before such a trip and make sure the coolant and trans. fluids are right up there.

I've brought both of these up from Florida on a wing and a prayer because I flew down to pick them up. I did, however, have the sellers change the oil and filter prior to my arrival. Of course they did that.

Always carry a spare set of fuel filters (and tools) in the trunk. All it takes is one bad tank of diesel fuel to clog the secondary filter enough that the car will not reach highway speeds. Other than that, I would check all fluid levels, spare tire, jack, etc. Carrying a basic metric tool kit would not be a bad idea.

When I took a train to TX to buy my car (600 mi) I brought a change of clothes, a toothbrush, and a big bag of tools.

I had a set of metric sockets, a few vice grips, some allen keys, my multimeter, and a few screwdrivers. I also had duct tape (of course), baling wire, a tire plugging kit, a portable air compressor, and a few other odds and ends.

The seller was nice enough to change all the fluids and belts (he was a great guy), and gave me another set of belts, extra fuel filters, and an assortment of other spare parts. While I was in town I picked up a gallon of oil and some coolant (one of the rare times I've bought the rip-off 'pre diluted' coolant), just in case.

Then I hit the road! Lucky me, I had no problems at all. But if I did, I was friggen prepared.

Peace,
sam

__________________
"That f***in' biodiesel is makin' me hungry."

1982 300TD Astral Silver w/ 250k (BIO BNZ)
2001 Aprilia SR50 Corsa Red w/ 5.5k (>100 MPG)

I drove up to MD with a friend to get the gem I currently own. (Great insurance having another someone following you home). Luckily had no problems on the way home. A week later the radiator went tango uniform on me and I had to replace it (no harm to engine, etc). So the lesson learned is be prepared. I won't do that again even with someone following me. Good luck and take some precautions (belts, hoses, check fluids after you pick it up, etc...)

__________________
83 300sd, 280K Blue/Blue Leather (~24mpg)
95 E300D, 150K Champaigne/Parchment(~33mpg)

Thanks for all of the advice. I think that having fuel filters, tools, socket wrenches, oil, water, maybe some belts hopefully will be enough. Not to mention hydraulic jack and other miscellaneous items. I think it will go ok. And I agree having someone to follow you is a must. Thanks again

Charlie

Remember the 1800 number For Merc.

__________________
01 Ford Excursion Powerstroke
99 E300 Turbodiesel
91 Vette with 383 motor
05 Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI
06 Polaris Sportsman 500 EFI
03 SeaDoo GTX SC Red
03 SeaDoo GTX SC Yellow
04 Tailgator 21 ft Toy Hauler
11 Harley Davidson 883 SuperLow

A cell phone with AAA.

__________________
1999 SL500
1969 280SE
2023 Ram 1500
2007 Tiara 3200

[QUOTE=Southernstar] I think that having fuel filters, tools, socket wrenches, oil, water, maybe some belts hopefully will be enough.

Charlie[/QUOTE

Don't forget duct tape--a big roll.

Every time I've bought an MB at a distance, I've always stopped at the first stop on the way home to buy window cleaner, washer fluid, and some paper towels.

Good luck.

Dont forgt to enjoy the drive...!!!

This trip will be the first "bonding" experience youll have with your new diesel.

__________________
Nate

1995 E420
1992 BMW 525i
1984 300D Turbo sold
1993 Volvo 244 sold
1995 Volvo 944T R.I.P!


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