A quick intro and some thanks - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

BlazenXLT · #1 08-11-2013, 03:43 PM

I thought it was due time that I post up a quick intro and offer my thanks to the forum. I've already pulled tons on good info and DIY guides for the "new" ride. Thanks to all

Due to an accident in Feb. that totaled my old beater, I found myself searching for a new daily driver. I've always loved old diesel MBs, and was lucky enough to find one in great shape, so an 83 240D found it's way on to my driveway.

A few quick notes: original paint, very little rust, A/C works, all windows and sunroof work, 229k, all original tools/jack and first aid kit!
It's been a great car so far, easy to start and smooth on the road. It's certainly not fast, but that's not an issue for me. I'm either using it to commute or riding around town. I've put a few thousand miles on it so far and I've been keeping track of the miles/gallons added to get an idea of MPG. I have no clue how accurate that method is, but I've seen numbers anywhere from 25-35, which seems about right. I'm 90% highway at speeds 55-60 where the car seems happiest.
It did need a bit of work, so here are a few things that have been done:

New tires were sorely needed, so new michelins went on. Is 195/70 the OE size?

Next, some general maintenance: fresh oil pan and gasket (old one was leaking), oil change, new air filter. The original muffler was hanging by a thread, so I though on a new one. Also tackled the valve adjustment.

The oil pan was easy enough, just a little messy.

I picked up a set of the valve adjusting wrenches off ebay

The adjustment itself wasn't so bad. My BMW needs them every 30K miles and uses these tiny shims that have to be slid into position. Major PITA.

I had the car parked in the garage for a few days and noticed fluid on the floor under the diff. Turned out to be a CV boot. After a bit of research this seems to be a somewhat common issue around 250k miles. My passenger side was shot and the drivers side very close, so I decided to replace both.

Here is the old drivers side

I've been really happy with how easy the car is to work on. Things seem simple and well made. I'm hopeful it will remain a reliable addition for the next few years, maybe longer. I do have a small oil leak, but to be honest I just haven't taken the time to find out where it's coming from. That will take some cleaning to really find out whats going on.

Cheers!