OM603 swap on a W123

[v_randy]

Hi,

I've been driving a W123 200d with OM615 and a 4 speed manual gearbox for 5 years now. Its burning a bit of oil and I think I'll have to rebuild it in the future. So, I'm playing with the idea of changing to a more powerful engine. Many do the 617 swap but I was thinking a step furthur. Has anyone done a OM603 swap on a W123? Is it difficult to do in RHD cars? what manual gearboxes are compatible?

 

[brianbrian]

High. Easy enough, a 250d from a 190. Or 300d from 124 would fit in and match up to your Auto box. I put a 300d from a 124 into my 129 sl. A bit more complicated. Get 40miles per gallon.

 

[v_randy]

High. Easy enough, a 250d from a 190. Or 300d from 124 would fit in and match up to your Auto box. I put a 300d from a 124 into my 129 sl. A bit more complicated. Get 40miles per gallon.

Thanks a lot! Also, any idea if I should change the final drive ratio?

 

[brianbrian]

No. But the car will not be worth. As much.My sl lost money as soon as I put the Diesel engine in,But have got my money back on fuel.

 

[V6Matty]

No. But the car will not be worth. As much.My sl lost money as soon as I put the Diesel engine in,But have got my money back on fuel.

I still think you did the right thing and kept that 128 Brian, lovely bit of engineering to put that lump in there