Here are some quick checks you can do yourself to determine how good the engine is.
There are a few things you can do and look at to determine how healthy an old Mercedes diesel engine actually is. They can be done in about 10 minutes. In his YouTube video Kent will demonstrate these quick checks on his newly acquired W126 300SD and discuss the results. You may want to do these on your own diesel and if you plan to buy a 220D, 240D, 300D, 300CD, 300TD, 300SD, 190D, 300SDL, etc. you will definitely want to apply these simply testes BEFORE you buy.
Problem & Solution
Common among these chassis:
W115
W116
W123
W124
W126
W140
W201
This is one part of a multipart series on restoring an old W126 300SD. To view the full series CLICK HERE.
For more thorough tests on 1985 and older 61x diesel engines Kent recommends one of his physical exam kits that you can see in related products.