Engine Performance Tuning checklist
 

If you just picked up a "junker", in what order would you begin to get the engine running back in prime condition?

Here's my starter list:
1. New fuel filters
2. Purge
Valves
Adjust throttle linkages
Banjo bolts
Italian Tune Up
Rack bolt
Alda


What else, or what do you think I have out of order of priority? Please keep this engine related ONLY!

Oil change!!!
Cooling system flush
Power Steering flush & filter change (Not really part of the engine, but it's right there)
Degrease
Vacuum & fuel hoses
Valve cover gasket after messing with valves
Air cleaner bracket & hardware
If it's a turbo - seals on the u-hose
Exhaust gaskets
Battery

What about adjusting the valves, checking the timing chain, and checking the IP timing? I would also check the compression (after adjusting the valves) before spending too much money on other things.

Ok:

New fuel filters / --> fuel hoses
Purge
Valves/ -->timing chain
Adjust throttle linkages
Banjo bolts
Italian Tune Up
--> IP timing
Rack bolt
Alda

Old Pokey: Sorry, I"m going to reject some of yours, since I'm principally interested in performance, not general maintainance. Let pretend the car is in perfectly maintained, imaculate condition, but the engine is just rough. So that's not a "junker." I know...

My 2 cents.

Fuel filters, main and in line. Look for algae evidence. ( black colored fuel)
Fuel lines, look for leaks/cracks/damage and replace
Valve adjustment. Check timing chain stretch while there.
Diesel purge/ injector cleaner ( Techron).
Oil/filter change.
Air filter change, if necessary. (check air filter mounts)
Replace the following filters, Power steering. (change the fluid initially to the same fluid. Going from ATF to power steering fluid ( or vis a versa) may produce leaks in the system). SLS suspension filter in the reservoir tank (TD only).
Tranny fluid/filter change.
Check Air Conditioner charge.
Check charging system.
Vacuum line connectors and condition. Replace connectors if old/cracked.
Antifreeze, Change to Mercedes.
Engine/ Tranny mounts and shocks. Check condition.
Check front and rear suspension condition.
Entire vacuum system check. Engine/door locks/Air Conditioning system
Wash and wax the girl.
Enjoy :D :D :D :D :D

Dave

I noticed today that the fuel in the little clear fuel filter looks black, what does that mean, its like not pitch black just kinda blackish gray.

Do a search for algae or fungus.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/search.php?searchid=951581

http://www.peachparts.com/Wikka/W123FuelTank

Dave

Check your boost pressure too

OIL first
 

then add belts condition to the list.
then add hoses
John

ConnClark-
pressure check after alda adjustment, right?