Alright, so the wife was back in Chicago and, on some sort of crazy whim, decided to buy an 82 240D auto in nice shape w/160,000 for $1700.

Upon returning with her prize she noted that the odometer was stuck, the car would not go in reverse, and shifted hard into 2nd. Otherwise a diesel mechanic back there that I trust said the rest of the car was great. Best interior and cleanest engine compartment he's seen in a while, whatever that's worth (hopefully $1700).

So after consulting a good MB mechanic, your website, and a divorce attorney, I'm starting to get excited about these cars. The vacuum tube threads are entertaining, I can do a lot with duct tape and BB's, and the sheer simplicity of the car is very appealing.

I'm going to be picking the car up in Chicago and transporting my long lost brother and his dog back to Eureka, Ca.

From what I've gleaned from your Forum, the car might need some adjustment to the vacuum tubes that control the trans and possibly the adjustable reverse band? If it's more than that I'll be facing paying some random shop in Nebraska for a new transmission.

Does anybody know a trusted knowledgeable mech between Chicago and Cali? (I remember somebody mentioning a guy in Des Moines) Is there a list of recommended shops nationwide? Also, is anybody on here based in N. California? I'm probably gonna need help with this thing when it gets here (no MB dealers for 4hrs in any direction). Looking for parts cars too I guess.

Yours,
mike in CA