Ok when I purchased my 1982 300D two months ago, the people I bought it from put a new engine but I have no idea what year it could be, is there any way I can find out? I changed the oil 2000 miles ago and its still level it hasn't lost a drop so I think the miles are real at 50,000 miles. This must be real rare for a 1982 300 turbo diesel.

I think there are a lot of the good year"s 240's and 300's out there that use little or no oil if they are maintained.
My 81 300 sd use's no oil at all between changes (3000 miles or less)It has a low milage salvage yard engine and I treat it kindly..
William Rogers.......

What is the engine number? You will find this on the driver's side of the block, towards the back, just below the head. It should start out as 617.95x. The "x" number is important. If the number says 617.950, then the engine originally came out of a SD, like mine. If it says 617.951, then it did come from a W123 300D and they used that version of the engine from, I believe '82-'85. the rest if the numbers you'll find is that particular engine's serial number.