I have a 1980 diesel 300cd with a blown motor Can i swap it for a 1982 turbo diesel wagon motor and will i encounter any problems any difference going diesel to turbodiesel and will it fit?
The 1980 300CD and the 1982 ('81 till '84) 300TD, as well as the
300SD all have the same engine model (OM617), the same engine
displacement (2998 cc), same compression ratio (21:1) and firing
order (12453). There are differences in the horsepower @ rpm which
is, of course, higher for the turbo charged engines. So far, both
engines appear quite identical besides the exchange engine being
built for and equipped with a turbo charger. My concern is that the
series which included the 1980 300CD was built from 1978 till 1981.
The 1982 TD Turbo belongs to the series that was built from 1981
till 1984. This might have consequences as to the fittings of the
motor in the engine compartment. I can't determine if and to what
degree these engines have been modified along the years. What I
would do is find a Mercedes repair shop (not particularly a
dealership who will say 'NO' anyway to anything that's not by the
book) and explain the situation. Some of these people are still
enough in the spirit of a mechanic to understand the satisfaction
of keeping a beautiful antique alive without paying an arm and a
leg, and they are often very willing to give advice. There might be
opportunities where you could use their paid services in exchange.
Some shops give you advice on kind of a diagnostic basis. Another
possibility would be an auto salvage company that is familiar with
Mercedes diesel models. Auto salvage places have lists of
substitute parts that indicate what parts for one car model can be
taken from which other models (like what engines would fit your
1980 300CD). It might fail because it is not usual (yet not
impossible) to substitute a turbodiesel engine for a diesel
engine). If the 1982 300TD engine is not usable, but in good shape,
I am sure you could sell it. These engines are in demand if you
find the proper forums where to offer them.