Help with Turbo 1983 300 SD

[Sandy Eisele]

I was recently given a 1983 300SD Turbo Diesel by a relative. It has 150k miles and runs well. However it seems very slow. I have never owned a turbo diesel, but don't know what to expect. How do I tell if the turbo is working.?
Thanks, Sandy

[Jim H]

Welcome to M-B's and welcome to the forum.

Even turbo diesels will seem slow when compared to gasoline engine cars.

Have a look at the Diesel Discussion forum here, lots of information.

Basically, we will want to know your 0-60 time, with a stop watch or someone helping with a sweep second.

Here is a thread with 0-60 times, see where you fall.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=108626

If your turbo is spooling up, you should feel an increase in torque at about 1500-2000 rpm.

Let us know what you've got.

Best Regards,
Jim

[blueranger]

i have your exact same car... its gray.. and has 250k miles... and yes they are very slow....they have the worst take off of any car on the planet... from a dead stop at a stop sign.... where your car should have lost of power is from say 50mph to 70mph.... take a drive on the interstate and see if the speed lags as you go up hill..... thats how you tell if there is something wrong..

If it bogs on the hills at high way speeds there here is what you do in this order...

1. change air filter... 9 bucks at pepboys..
2. change both fuel filters 18 bucks napa...(or buy this online here)
3. Run some fuel injector cleaner through a few tanks of diesel..

(now your car should go 100 on the interstate)

If it does not then you must clean the banjo bolt on the back of the turbo.
and have the valves adjusted.....you may also try capping off the vacuum hose to the egr valve.....

But I have not found anything that will help on take offs.... other than perhaps propane injection......

[Larry Delor]

The turbo usually kicks in around 2000-2200 rpm's. You should notice a distinct increase in accelleration.
It helps a little not to have the A/C on, when stomping on the "move-forward-pedal) from a dead stop.
Be sure and check your airfilter first...diesels are heavy breathers.