my 93 300D

[DieselMarine]

I was just involved in an accident on Tuesday, September 8th 2009. My 1993 MB 300D 2.5 has a crushed headlight assembly, and possibly a bent suspension element, not sure yet because i cannot pop the hood. I was happy to confirm that my cord for the hood release happens to run down that side of my car. I'm waiting for a bodyshop to get me an estimate of repairs before I actually make a determination as to what parts I need to fix it. What do you guys think... I'm sitting at 238,000 miles, and according to some gearheads (old school volvo dude, and a chevy owner) at work, in need of a new trans. Gents, your thoughts are greatly appreciated.

[babymog]

New trans based on what? Mileage?

The 300D 124 is a very desirable car. Sounds like minimum damage, I'd fix it and drive it if it's in good condition.

[i-osprey]

I bought a salvage title '93 300D(already rebuilt) with 200K for $2225 off fleabay.

I have since done quite a bit of work to it but nothing major.

It runs like a top and in seven months I have but 27K miles on it.

[DieselMarine]

So the damage came back, and the cost for repairs is 2650, total with parts and labor. I should be posting pictures here shortly soon as I figure out how... lol.. I honestly like the car... so I'm gonna sleep on it, more than likely though I am going to pay up and get it fixed, and go from there. put up a listing online or in the paper, not sure what i should b able to get for it with a suspect transmission, among other things.. but I like my car... so I'll prolly keep it till it really dies...

[DieselMarine]

Here are some pics

[compress ignite]

I'd make sure the ABS is tested before any releases to the shop are executed.

[sixto]

$2650 is a bargain to repair that

Sixto
87 300D

[DieselMarine]

Actually, I think so too, and considering how much I love the W124 Model, I'm gonna get it fixed up.. .then tackle the vacuum problem I may be having with the transmission. Apparently, the strut, and wheel absorbed most of the impact with the 97 GMC Sierra... which I'm happy about, struts aren't too expensive... and I should have my baby back by the end of the week. I'll post pics!!!

[babymog]

I'd be very concerned about the repair of the inner-fender, as it is what aligns the front wheel/suspension. Looks pretty well torn up.

[DieselMarine]

Originally Posted by babymog

New trans based on what? Mileage?

He claims that the transmission "slips" into gear rather than shifts, and that that is indicative of a transmission starting to go. I will say again that he's a big volvo guy and loves workin on his 240, and 242 turbo..The thing is, it doesn't "slip" once the transmission is warm.. it shifts fine, only on early morning drives, and drives after it has been sitting for a while. I can't leave my car to get it driven first by a mech, its my daily driver.

[babymog]

That can be a simple matter of adjustment in your car. Too much vacuum will cause a flaring shift, too little a harsh shift. Try un-plugging the hose to the VCV on the side of the Injection Pump, if you have rock-hard shifts it's probably an adjustment you need.

[DieselMarine]

so got the car back last week, pictures soon!!! this weekend however, noticed the engine temp running rediculously hot. Checked it out monday morning, zero coolant in my reservoir. Come to find out I got a radiator that is pissing coolant. wasn't on my estimate, its the same radiator from before my accident. Epic Fail on my part, so I'll have one in tomorrow afternoon and put it in tomorrow evening, went ahead and ordered new hoses as well, I have the manuals, so I'll prolly look it up there and print it to have on hand, any tips gents? Thanks...