300D engine surge / Gear linkages

[cal300SD]

I am interested in acquiring an "F" reg 1989 E300D non-turbo with 5 speed manual box, 267k miles, in immaculate condition (the photos look superb), good history and what sounds to be minimal problems. It is a private car. My questions to the forum are:

1. Regarding the engine quoting the owner "...sometimes under very light throttle engine tends to "surge" maybe new fuel filter req..."
Any specific reasons or caution about this phenomenon? feedback appreciated:

2. Regarding the manual gearbox linkage: "...gear linkage req adjustment (getting out of 5th req "waggle" of stick...", I guess just worn linkages.

Any ideas on costs would be appreciated, or where to get parts, inlcuding service kits, injectors, glow plugs. I live near Oxford.

CAL.

 

[cal300SD]

Update

I have bought the 267k mile E300D, 1988 model. Only things required for MOT pass were aiming of headlights and cleaning up some diesel leakage under the bonnet. That's all, much to my delight and surprise. A full valet service will be carried out to make the carpets and interior smell and look new, as well as the entire engine bay. I still need to get rear wheel bearing replaced and full service and repair for the gearchange and engine surge problems.

I have asked this question before, but does anyone know of independent MB specialists within a reasonable shout of Abingdon/Oxford? Any advice appreciated.

Lastly, the tachometer (rpm gauge) does not work at the moment (clock does). Does anyone know of common fault and fix to get it working? The fuse (Nr B5) is OK).

Calus.

 

[Bolide]

300D

Calus


I'd drive the car for a while to get a feel for what's right and what's wrong before having more work done like glowplugs & etc

I've only driven one manual diesel and the gearchange on that (at 120k) was OK but the lever was a real "wavy wand" affair. I suspect it goes with the territory

I strongly suggest using MB parts for nearly everything. Definitely use MB oil & fuel filters and MB brake pads. Air filters... you can use aftermarket but they won't be much cheaper and they may be more expensive!

Euro Car Parts or German & Swedish are good for other bits like headlamp glass. Try your local diesel truck specialist for injectors and general diesel intelligence - most garages don't understand them

When you get it serviced I'd replace the serpentine belt if it looks dodgy. Check the tensioner while you're at it

267K is nothing for that engine. The car will fall to bits round it before it fails

Good luck!


Nick Froome
http://www.w124.co.uk