Reliability of a 83 Vw diesel rabbit VS 240D? - Page 2 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

sgnimj96 · #16 07-20-2018, 11:53 PM

if the vw is rebuilt (engine, clutch, IP, injectors), which is relatively easy, and the tank is clean, THEN it's a reliable machine for 100K+ miles.

Pulling the vw engine is as easy as lifting the front of the car up (really high) with a come-along, and rolling the engine out on a floor jack

. I've done it in my carport off the center beam.

Injectors are the same as the mercs, so send em' to Greazzer before he retires.
https://dieselfuelinjector.guru/
That should fix any unusual "shakey" idle

funola · #17 07-21-2018, 12:58 AM

Find a MK Ii Jetta with a turbo. I have a daily driver 92 Ecodiesel Jetta 1.6 turbo I put a 5 spd in. Handles great. 43 mpg - twice my 300D turbo gets. Just as fast. Ever since I got rid of the ac compressor and wonky pulley/ belt setup it's been super reliable. Mine does not leak. Fixed them all. Great car. It's at 240k

ROLLGUY · #18 07-21-2018, 09:59 AM

I concur, avoid the Rabbit, and get an early Jetta or another winter 240 "beater with a heater". My bro has an '87 Jetta TDI, and it has been fairly reliable, and very economical (5spd). As was suggested, having another 240 for parts is not a bad idea. In a pinch, parts can be borrowed from the other to get it back on the road.