I am amazed at the difference in the driving characteristics of my new baby (1984 300D) after I adjusted the ALDA. While people have been mentioning that it allows the engine to spin the turbo impeller up to speed a little more quickly from rest, what has not been mentioned is the exceptional difference in drivability. While there is no throttle per se, what I mean is usually called “throttle response” when referring to a gasoline engine. The difference is when you lightly tip into the gas(?!) pedal, the engine responds in a more immediate & linear manner. This responsiveness is during city type driving while already moving along – when you call for a bit more acceleration, the torque is there immediately.

It has allowed the car to behave in a much more “normal” way. The best analogy that I can think of is that the prior response to the gas pedal felt almost like the pedal was attached to a very flexible bungee cord, which was then itself attached to the engine. (again, the feeling was not physical, just perception of responsiveness.) Sort of like Boinnnngggg while waiting for some power . Now it feels like a totally different car.

This is with only ¾ turn richer, and I have not altered the boost yet (it’s peaking at about .65 bar or 9.3 PSI right now). Someone followed me while I accelerated, and said there was NO smoke at all. This must be indicative of how lean this car was to begin with. So with that in mind, I think I’ll try another ¼ turn and see what happens!

Thanks to everyone!

Wow, sounds like a good modification. Where exactly is the ALDA? Thanks

Alex

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1983 300D (parked for four years)
2012 VW Sportwagen TDI Manual
2001 Miata SE
1962 Chevrolet Corvair Rampside

The ALDA adjustment is truly simple, however it apparently does not come without risk. It is also one of those things where *more* is not necessarily better. The best thing to do is use the search function here at MBShop, and thoroughly read through the postings on the subject.

Good Luck!