Replacing engine and transmission mounts
 

I have a lovely 1973 220D that needs new engine/trans mounts. I am an amateur mechanic--I have only done basic maintenance stuff up till now. Would I be in over my head if I were to attempt this? If anyone has any advice, I would really appreciate it. Thanks!!

For starters, most people are going to have you use the search function because there are already many posts on this.

Some things you need to know:
- Your car chassis is a W115. You will need this when looking up chassis info such as suspension parts that are not specific to engine.

- Your engine is an om616 but also referred to as just 616. It is very similar to the 617.

Here is a DIY page. Just find the one that says 617 Engine Mounts and you should be good.

Isn't the 220D a OM615, not 616?
As far as degree of difficulty, I did the motor mounts on my 1978 240D (which is a different chassi but similar engine to yours) and it really was not tough. I did the transmission mount on my other car (87 300D) last night and that was even easier. I have a reasonable amount of experience but certainly am not an expert or "seasoned veteran." I wouldn't recommend it to someone who's never picked up a wrench, but it's not a bad "next step" kind of job if you have a few simpler things under your belt.
Just be sure to jack up the engine carefully using a floor jack and a 2X4 under the oil pan, AND be very careful not to strip the allen-headed bolts ... clean out the allen recesses first and make sure your wrench has a good seat.
jonbob is correct that you can find a lot of basics through search, but if you're baffled by something or need something clarified, folks here are very helpful.:)

Oh yeh...615. Oops

I get kind of scared doing things the first time. Usually my luck has it that some bolt is crooked or something doesnt want to work just right and what should be an hour job turns into five or worse, I need to take the car someplace.

I decided (had) to tackle mounts when doing oil cooler lines on my 82. The overall job definitely took a while, but it was really pretty straightforward to do the mounts. So long as you can find the proper bolts that hold them down, and so long as they come out (perhaps prep by soaking them with a penetrating fluid of your choice a week before), then all is well. You do need a hydraulic jack and some lumber...

Helga,
Welcome to the forum !!

Its great to see that you provided the model of the car you have. Makes it easier for those responding. When you get a chance, could you please put those details along with your location in your signature. Often there are forum members close by who are happy to help!!
We all hope that you will find all you need to know on here.

Bohdi (post 3) recently replaced the rear mount on one of her cars. The thread about it is very informative & will provide you with many hints. Her comments in post 3 are very much right. If you are doing your own maintenance, Oil/filters etc, you are probably up to the mounts.

If you do a search on engine mount replacement, I am sure you will find plenty of information.
The minimum tool requirements would be; the correct size allen keys, socket set, box spanners & a jack.
The center allen bolt, that you get at from underneath can be a pain if its seized, you will see that in some threads.

Good Luck with your repair !!!

Did them last night. On the transmission mount: remove the top nut BEFORE removing the retaining bracket. Otherwise you are twisting the whole drive train.

I must love the hard way.