Fuel line for number 1 cylinder lost tip due to vibration at 180,000 miles. Resulting diesel spray stretched end of shut-off vacuum line. Total cost of repair including fuel line and hose from dealer plus labor was $100.
Electric for passenger side headrest and mirror not working.
Driving the S-Class diesel after years of driving my 114/115 chassis 1976 240D is a shock - and a pleasure.
I give high performance marks to the 300SDL for good acceleration and fantastic handling.
Even though the driving experience is very pleasurable, I would almost rather sit in the back seat.
I didn't fully appreciate the car until I got a look at the underneath while it was on the mechanics lift for oil and lube.
The overall quality matches that of the early 70's Mercedes - something I didn't think was possible.
I bought a 1987 SDL at 164000 miles. I love it. Fantastic driver. BUT, I had to replace the cylinder head! I was told that this is not unusual with the 6 Diesel which has a cast iron block and an aluminum head. Argh! I now expect another 165000 miles.
Marc.
The W126 body, or the S-Class we are talking about is more or less an extension, if you will, of the '70's Mercedes. It has exactly the same underpinnings as the previous S-Class (W116).
As far as the cylinder heads go. They will only crack if the car was overheated. Even once. I have 286K miles on my 300SDL right now. Original head. So rest assured, all is well in good for the future of a watchful eye.
From what I've read and had explained to me by certified mechanics, the washing of these motors with these heads is a big no no if they are hot, (as in up to operating temp). My main authority, who has been to and thru all major auto plants in Europe, says that the Mercedes designers of these cast iron block/aluminum head combo went to extensive pains to eliminate the linear expansion difference of these two metals.
Okay, 2 years and 40k miles later, the glow has worn off the 300SDL a little, but not too much. A water pump, tie rod, and a few other things replaced, nothing major. Definite signs in trim, paint, leather say "I'm 18 years old". What a great car. However, my 115-chassis 240D has moved back to preferred status because of funky headlights, smoke-belching spunk, and 4-speed manual (I love you Sputnik -- keep up the good work).
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