[MBZ] FS MY 82 300SD $500, DES MOINES
Volks: It's time to sell Sadie, my beloved SD, which I've had for 7 years and 80k miles. NEEDS: a trans fluid and filter change--shifts reluctantly, but can be coaxed into all gears by shifting into neutral, then back into drive. Had exactly these symptoms about 60K miles ago, and a servicing fixed it. Otherwise, shifts firmly, fluid is still red. ALso needs an alternator (lifetime warrantee rebuilt included; failing one is still installed). Only one window currently works, cruise inop, sunroof works but is slow. Slow leak in rack seals and small leak in top of radiator; these have been there since I bought it and I just top up both every few weeks. Other than that, is in fine shape--see attached pix. More pix available for the interested. Lapis blue, saddle leather with a couple minor splits in driver's seat. Leatheriqued annually. Comes with two spare front seats in matching saddle leather, starter core, alt, 2 oil filters, air filter. No dash cracks, Becker plays great, cassette and display inop. Interior quite clean and comfortable. Driven daily for 120-mile daily highway commute until last week when shifting issue showed up. In my ownership, it's had a complete brake job, ALDA adjustment, ACC brain, new vac pump, a bunch of oil seals, driveshaft center bearing, new trans cooler hard lines, new battery, belts, oil cooler line, new Michlins approx 30k ago, and very evenly worn. Previous owner repainted bundts, bumpers. 336k and runs very well. Burns about a quart every 2000 miles; 27 mpg commuting at 70 mph. Synthetic oil since I've had it, chain stretch measured and well within spec recently. Heat's great, suspension and front end good, AC out of R12 but compressor works. Best car I'll ever own, but I no longer have time to do my own maintenance due to new job and long commute. $500 to list members and friends. Drive it home. Hate to put it on craigslist and see someone ruin it. Dan Des Moines, IA 515/554-6758 -- next part -- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: IMGP1719.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 93947 bytes Desc: not available URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20101031/1fbb736f/attachment.jpg -- next part -- -- next part -- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: IMGP1720.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 91974 bytes Desc: not available URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20101031/1fbb736f/attachment-0001.jpg -- next part -- -- next part -- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: IMGP1721.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 87968 bytes Desc: not available URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20101031/1fbb736f/attachment-0002.jpg -- next part -- -- next part -- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: IMGP1724.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 91793 bytes Desc: not available URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20101031/1fbb736f/attachment-0003.jpg -- next part -- -- next part -- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: IMGP1725.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 90850 bytes Desc: not available URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20101031/1fbb736f/attachment-0004.jpg -- next part -- -- next part -- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: IMGP1726.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 79815 bytes Desc: not available URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20101031/1fbb736f/attachment-0005.jpg -- next part -- -- next part -- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: IMGP1727.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 68493 bytes Desc: not available URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20101031/1fbb736f/attachment-0006.jpg -- next part -- -- next part -- A non-text attachment was scrubbed... Name: IMGP1732.jpg Type: image/jpeg Size: 79622 bytes Desc: not available URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20101031/1fbb736f/attachment-0007.jpg -- next part -- ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Sadie
Thanks, Loren. She is nice--took those last night. Looks like she's going to another lister, so I'm happy about that. Dan On Nov 1, 2010, at 7:38 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Congrats on the new job. It is really sad to see you part with your 300SD, Sadie. The pictures look really nice. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] 126 ALT. BELT TENSIONER NEEDED
My 82 300SD's alternator belt tensioner is pretty well shot. Bent, threads stripped, and I just found that somehow the adjusting nut managed to up and leave. Does anyone have a good used one they'd be willing to sell? Thanks! Dan in Des Moines 82 300SD, 336k ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 59, Issue 9
On Oct 3, 2010, at 2:51 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Do you remember the price? Website? -Max I got it done from my indy (also Loren's indy), Doug Havlik at Imported Autos on Reliable Street in Ames, IA. He had the collar milled locally, or so he said. SO, I don't know about the internet source. I'd bet doug would sell you one if you asked. He charged me $600 to make the piece, cut the bar, and install it and align the car, so just the part would be lots cheaper. Did find these links, however: http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=144023highlight=sway http://www.activeboard.com/forum.spark?forumID=91042p=3topicID=17140497 Good luck! Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] SD Front End Popping
First thing to check is the front swaybar end. These rust out and pop off. They can look just fine until suddenly they go. Mine let go when I braked hard from about 5 mph. Replacing the swaybar is a bear of a job, and about 2k by the book. My indie fabbed a new swaybar end for $600 or so several years and 50k miles ago for mine; no problem since. It may, however, be something considerably less serious. Dan 82 SD, 335k On Oct 2, 2010, at 7:51 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: 84 SD last night, the front has felt a bit loose and rattly for a while now and last night night I heard some fairly loud popping sounds from rt frnt, figured something needs to be done fairly quickly. Ball joints popping? ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Odyssey for Max
Max Not sure about those, but they pass muster with my engineer friend, who researched the hell out of them and likes his very much. Says he can count on 25 mpg. I like my Previa better--more room, RWD which I like better for heavy loads and towing, and the same 4-speed auto as they put in the trucks. I know a guy with over 350k on the original engine and trans, and he tows a two-ton boat with his. Mine shifts very crisply at 187k. Mid- engined with very low COG, handles surprisingly well. Dan in Des Moines On Oct 2, 2010, at 7:51 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Lately I have been looking at the Honda Odyssey minivans with more than passing interest, but I hear that the transmission is the weak link on those... -Max ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 59, Issue 7
That's the fix I got. Has worked perfectly. Dan On Oct 2, 2010, at 9:38 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: I have seen advertisement on the web for a replacement end for the 126 sway bar, which fits like a sleeve over the broken stub. Looks like the most reasonable way to repair that particular failure. -Max ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Sprinters
Loren: I bought a mint, one-owner, all-records Toyota Previa 1.5 years ago for $2,800, and have been extremely pleased with it for the past 30k miles. It looks and runs virtually new, and I've brought a half-ton of lumber back from maine in it getting 23.5 mpg. You might consider one of those, as since they're rwd and a bit oddball around here, they're cheap. Mine's still on its original exhaust system at 186k, uses no oil between 10k mile (synthetic) changes. Only major maintenance item since new were a master cyl and struts. I've built a camping kit for the interior with galley, bunk, porta-potty, and storage that slides in for long trips. Hope to keep it going a long time. Plenty of power-- IMO you don't need the supercharged version or the AWD. I've had a half-ton in the van, a sectional couch on the roof, and a ton behind it from here to Cedar Falls up 330/30/63, and it cruised 60 no problem (which was as fast as I tried to go) even up the truck grades and got 17 mpg for the trip. The trans is the same as the tundras, and the 138 hp 2.4 4 is quite tourquey--not a wheel-spinner, but pulls like a diesel from 2,500 to redline. On the previa list serve, there's a guy with 360k on the engine and trans, no issues, and he pulls a two ton boat with his. I took mine to the west coast and could sprint up the truck grades at 75 in third. Lots of vehicle for the money. Mid- engine, so handle quite well also. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] AND THE WINNER IS...
[Elvis accent] Thank yuh thankyuhverymuch [End Elvis accent] Glad it worked, Loren, and that after 8 years on this list, I actually had an answer, instead of a question! Dan On Sep 24, 2010, at 8:16 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Dan Weeks! The trans is fine after only a fluid and filter change. Total cost: about $40-50. THe trans flared on the 2-3 shift a couple of times (not back to back), then settled down and was fine I think it was gunk that didn't clear with the draining. I think the filter was just plain plugged. Plan to do it again after 2k or so, and switch to synthetic. I think I will try the valvoline ATF. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Auto Trans Diagnosis A
Loren: Had the same symptoms with my 82 300SD. Trans flush did not solve the problem, but a trans drain, screen clean, and refill did. Problem has not returned. Dan On Sep 23, 2010, at 8:46 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: This is an 85 380SL. Trans shifts only after over-revving the engine, or to get it into high, I can slip int N and then back in D. Speedo works, so it is not a busted governor gear. Fluid level is correct. Could this be a modulator problem or vac? On Diesels, low/no vacuum leads to jarring hard shifts. Did I ever mention that I hate auto trans? Any ideas what might cause this behavior? ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Pulling Seats
Why not just bring a battery in and jumper power to the seat servos? Dan On Aug 25, 2010, at 7:54 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Any other ideas on pulling without power? ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Loren, was Dieselhead
It is indeed Loren. Lives in the next city over from me. Nice guy in person, and very Mercedes knowledgeable. I bought a 300TE from him a few years ago, and we've talked several times. Dan On Aug 3, 2010, at 6:27 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: thanks, Dan. if that's Loren, i wonder what the deal is,... he's shared some stuff in the past that was worth saving. i feel that if anyone has anything they think is of value to share they should at least feel it's worth putting their name on to get fair credit for it; once they fail to do that, they're just sniping anonymously, and anonymous snipes aren't worth the paper they're printed on. cheers! e On 03/Aug/10 06:15, theprofil...@dwx.com wrote: E wrote: but hey, here i am responding to a random voice on the 'net who hides behind an alias, and doesn't even stand behind what he's saying enough to put his name on it. what was i thinking?! E: Dieselhead is Loren Faeth, of Ames, Iowa, a long-time member of this list. I don't know why the alias lately. Maybe he's in the witness protection program. :-) Dan Weeks Des Moines 82 300SD, 334k miles ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Lexus mileage
If that's the Toyota 3-liter six, I've got one in a '94 camry I just bought for $1,800. Rated for 22 on the highway, but I've been averaging 27 on a 60 mile commute @ 70 mph, and a little in-town on both ends. 29 when I've only run the air on the afternoon return trip. Should be able to break 30 easy on a real long trip, or without using the air. Very smooth and powerful drivetrain. I like it a lot. In town mileage isn't great, tho--17-20. Dan On Aug 1, 2010, at 7:00 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Send Mercedes mailing list submissions to mercedes@okiebenz.com To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com You can reach the person managing the list at mercedes-ow...@okiebenz.com When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than Re: Contents of Mercedes digest... Today's Topics: 1. Lexus? (LWB250) 2. Re: Lexus? (LWB250) -- Message: 1 Date: Sun, 1 Aug 2010 04:41:58 -0700 (PDT) From: LWB250 lwb...@yahoo.com To: Okie Benz mercedes@okiebenz.com Subject: [MBZ] Lexus? Message-ID: 530438.36100...@web65709.mail.ac4.yahoo.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii I am still on the hunt for a car, as I need to find something in the next week or two before I start my new job. Just got done looking at a 1998 Lexus GS 300. Nice car, one owner, only 70k. Everything I've found review and owner-wise I've found on these has been positive. The mileage is a little lower than I would like, but I can live with it. Any opinions or direct experience with Lexii out there? Dan -- Message: 2 Date: Sun, 1 Aug 2010 04:51:09 -0700 (PDT) From: LWB250 lwb...@yahoo.com To: Mercedes Discussion List mercedes@okiebenz.com Subject: Re: [MBZ] Lexus? Message-ID: 465850.78074...@web65713.mail.ac4.yahoo.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1 Mileage meaning gas mileage, not the car miles Dan --- On Sun, 8/1/10, LWB250 lwb...@yahoo.com wrote: From: LWB250 lwb...@yahoo.com Subject: [MBZ] Lexus? To: Okie Benz mercedes@okiebenz.com Date: Sunday, August 1, 2010, 7:41 AM I am still on the hunt for a car, as I need to find something in the next week or two before I start my new job. Just got done looking at a 1998 Lexus GS 300.? Nice car, one owner, only 70k.? Everything I've found review and owner-wise I've found on these has been positive.? The mileage is a little lower than I would like, but I can live with it. Any opinions or direct experience with Lexii out there? Dan ? ? ? ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com -- ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com End of Mercedes Digest, Vol 57, Issue 2 *** ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] VW Diesel trucks
On Jul 19, 2010, at 2:06 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: http://lansing.craigslist.org/cto/1849867145.html If I were going to buy a diesel VW truck, I'd rather have one of these: *http://tinyurl.com/2g7etge * I've had both. The rabbit diesel truck was one of the worst vehicles ever--HORRIBLY noisy, and too small in cab or bed to be useful. Cab was tiny. Had a diesel Jetta that was much better--a nice little car. Had a turbodiesel vanagon westy that I loved. 27 mpg at 65, and adequate power, surprisingly enough, mostly due to the flat turbo torque curve and a well-matched wide ratio 4-speed. You're right about payload--they were rated for a ton but would carry considerably more with grace. I once drove 800 miles with probably 3,000 lbs in mine, and it rode, handled, and drove just fine, albeit several inches lower. LOADS of suspension travel, very good off road. Because of the chassis configuration, it was easy to load them level, and maintain a 50/50 weight distribution. I now have a toyota previa. MUCH more reliable, twice as powerful, and a very decent vehicle in its own right, but much smaller and won't handle anywhere near the weight or bulk that the vanagon would, and rides worse, empty or full. The vanagon doka (for DOuble KAb) truck is much sought after, but I never wanted one, because the bed is so small and high. Half the advantage of the vanagon van was the low entry hight of the side door and the very high roof. Tremendous capacity. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] STICKING 126 CALIPER
Thanks, all, for the many suggestions and all the info. It's not leaking, so it's either the hose or a corroded piston. I'll replace the hose and see what happens; if it still has a problem, I'll be ordering a good used Kaliper from Kleb. Thanks again! Dan 82 300SD 332k ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] 126 STICKING CALIPER
My 82 300SD has a sticking rear caliper. One brake puck worn more than the others, and after parking it for two weeks, the LR wheel wouldn't turn until I gave it considerable throttle. Tire eventually slid across driveway floor until it broke free. What's the fix? New caliper? Or are they DIY rebuildable? Cost? Thanks! Dan 82 300SD, 332k ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] FIND CAR/TRUCK ON A BUDGET
Last year I bought a '91 Toyota Previa minivan in mint condition with 160k miles on it for $2,850. Everything works perfectly, one owner. I've driven it 20k miles since with the only cost being gas and oil. Half-ton suspension, truck 4-speed overdrive automatic, bulletproof 2.4 liter gas. Averaged 23.5 mpg filled with lumber and heavy furniture on a 1600 mile trip from Maine last year. Mid-engine, so handles very well for a minivan. Highly recommended. Avoid the all- wheel drives, as the viscous diff can be expensive to repair. You don't need the supercharged version, either. I drove over the rockies both ways and never dropped below 75 mph on the passes with the NA, 138 hp 2.4. Great vehicle. Dan in Des Moines ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] $250 300SE
In Des Moines. Oh, Kaleb. Dan http://desmoines.craigslist.org/cto/1692769018.html ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] ULTIMATE 123
I think the ultimate 123 is a 126. I mean, why not? They're the same price as 123s now, and have more room, a better ride, bigger brakes, better passive safety, I would guess, and I think they handle about the same if not better, and don't give up much if anything in mileage or performance. I can appreciate wanting manual everything, but I won't give up a turboed 617 to get it. My second choice would be a turboed TD. Dan 82 300SD, 325k miles, and still racking up 700 miles/week at 28 mpg. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] LEATHER SEAT MAINT QUESTION
THe 28 year old leather seats in my 300SD are in pretty good shape but are beginning to dry out even with annual leatherique applications. The problem is, the finish on the top of the leather keeps the leatherique from penetrating, except in cracks and wear spots. What seems to work very well is applying neat's foot oil to the unfinished back sides of the leather, which I've done with great results indeed to the top of the rear seat, and the skirts of both front and rear seats. THese areas are now very supple, even though the seatback especially had gotten very hard and brittle. The leather there soaked up a huge amount of oil--three heavy brush applications. I'd now like to do the same to the backrests and seats themselves, but don't know how to get at them as the padding is in the way. Has anyone ever done this? Can the padding be removed and replaced? Or would it all have to be resewn, which I'm reluctant to do for fear of further damaging the leather? Thanks! Dan 82 300SD, 325k miles ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 51, Issue 64
On Feb 7, 2010, at 8:51 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: I have been using Neatsfoot oil, getting it from FarmFleet in fact. But, after reading more about it, including in the maintenance of riding leather boots. it appears that most formulas of Neatsfoot oil contain thinning agents like kerosene. That's disappointing. --PT, '81 300D Yes. That's why I get 100% Neats foot oil, not neats foot oil COMPOUND, which has the thinning agents. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] LEATHER SEAT MAINT
On Feb 7, 2010, at 8:51 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Someone else may know better, but my recollection is that the bottoms and backs have padding and a backing sewn together to make the roll and tuck effect. If you take the seat covers off, you still would not be able to reach the backside of the leather easily.I would guess, as you suggest, that taking them apart and re-sewing would weaken the leather and lead to rips. YOU ARE CORRECT--I HAVE TAKEN MINE APART, AND THAT'S WHAT I SAW, HENCE MY QUESTION. It might be easier to sand the surface, treat then refinish with the leatherique stuff. INTERESTING IDEA, BUT SOUNDS LIKE A LOT OF WORK. or find good seats in the right color and replace as needed or put sheepskins over what you have. or buy mb-tex covers as needed. One other trick is to switch the driver and passenger side bottoms and backs. that way they wear on different sides. DONE THAT, PLUS DONE THE POOL NOODLE FIX, WHICH WORKED WELL. HAVE SPARE SEATS WITH NO RIPS, BUT THEY'RE FROM NEW MEXICO, AND ARE DRIER THAN THE ONES I HAVE AND I'M AFRAID TO USE THEM WITHOUT CONDITIONING, THO I HAVE USED THE SPRINGS AND BASES (WITH WORKING SERVOS) TO REPLACE MINE. THUS MY INTEREST IN SOFTENING FROM THE BACK. LOOKS LIKE I'M STUCK, THO. FORTUNATELY, THE SEATS AREN'T TOO BAD YET. THANKS, ALL, FOR THE SUGGESTIONS. DAN 300SD ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] 300SD MASSIVE OIL LEAK
As you all suggested, the problem was a leak in top line to the oil cooler, as a result of a loose belt that nicked the hose, as the result of a bent alternator belt tensioner. Had to disconnect the engine mounts and jack up the engine to get the line out. No leak now, though. Thanks for the tip-- dead on, as usual. D ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] CALLING FMISER
PHillip: How many miles at the time, do you recall? Dan On Jan 24, 2010, at 10:20 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: That sound a lot like the symptoms I had. Not too much later the engine developed a miss. Not much after that it started pulsing oil out the dip stick tube, pushing the dipstick out of the way. I pulled the head and determined the rings fail/died on one cylinder. OP never went off the top peg except momentarily, making me think the leak is large but at least somewhat intermittant. Went through 4 quarts of oil before I discovered it. On my engine, until it was pumping out the dipstick tube (I'm guessing pumped out of the sump by the massive blowby) the pressure gauge read normally. This was an '83 (I think) 300D turbo. -- Philip ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] HELP--MASSIVE OIL LEAK
Well the anecdotal verdict is running heavily in favor of an oil cooler line, with one dissenter suggesting possible ring failure. I'm delighted, and hope the majority is right. THanks, all, for weighing in--I'll let you know what my indy finds. Just as soon as the blizzard stops, and a tow truck is available (I'm thinking the middle of next week, at this point!) Dan 82 300SD ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Early FI
On Jan 25, 2010, at 5:04 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Seems to me the first German electronic injection was in the 1968 VW Squareback Fastback. Well before MB or Porsche. That was '66 at least. My grandfather had a squareback so equipped of that year. Horrible--a gas pedal that was essentially a 3 position switch. But, it did work. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] HELP--MASSIVE OIL LEAK
82 300SD with previously low oil consumption (1 qt every 2500 miles or so), but the usual leaks and drips. 325k miles. Today on a short trip noticed the OP gauge occasionally dip off the top peg momentarily, then go back up. This happened several times over the course of 10 miles or so. Noticed it, but since the drops were momentary and since I'd recently replaced the OP sender, didn't think too much of it, but did open the hood when I stopped. Well. Oil everywhere. Seeping out around the left headlight, covering every surface, fan, belts, hoses, etc. in the front of the engine. Too oily to see a source, but seems to be coming from the front left of the engine. OP never went off the top peg except momentarily, making me think the leak is large but at least somewhat intermittant. Went through 4 quarts of oil before I discovered it. WIll take it to my indy for a diagnosis. Anybody want to take a guess as to what we're looking at, or have any advice? I'm hoping its a gasket, oil line union, or work-hardened, snapped, external oil line, and not a front main or something. Any advice or suggestions welcome. Sadie and I offer thanks in advance! Dan 82 300SD 325k Des Moines ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] HELP--MASSIVE OIL LEAK
Thanks, Mitch. That sounds about right. I'll check that first and report back. A few years ago I sprung a similar leak in the trans cooler lines. Was simply worn through from vibration. Replaced the lines and was fine. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 50, Issue 141
On Jan 24, 2010, at 7:57 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Had put it on Banned but not her here -- a couple of days ago, I backed into the garage and the rear bumper of my 240D fell off. Brackets has rusted. I LOVE Iowa winters! [sic] Wonko-- Yeah, mine's been in a salt bath for a month, running 600 miles per week between DSM and Grinnell. No point in washing it until last weekend, as the roads have been continually salty. Finally washed the chassis with hot water and a hose one of those days that was above freezing. Yikes. All that salt has raised hell with my exhaust system. Not leaking yet, but will soon. Everything else looks OK, so far. Almost washed it again today, but its gonna snow again tonight. Plus, of course, I'm imobilized with what likely is a busted oil cooler line. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Miles per cord
Wood gassification is very well developed. There's a guy who owns a sawmill somewhere in the south who runs all his trucks on wood gas. He's kept close track of his fuel useage, and in his fleet of 3 dodge dakota v-6s he gets 5,000 miles per cord on the average. He drove from his home town to San Francisco to an alternative fuel meet with a table saw in the back of the truck (powered by an inverter off the engine, so it ran on wood gas, too) and a small trailer, and he'd gather wood as he went and cut it into small chunks with the table saw, and feed it into the firebox. Hell, at that rate, a small 5x8 trailer full of wood could take you 2,000 miles easy, without having to stop to cut. Got 30% less horsepower on wood gas, hence the v-6, which had plenty of power even on the alternative fuel for his needs. That's really very efficient.--3 cents a mile if you figure 150 a cord. But the thing is, a wood gasifier will burn the stuff that comes out of wood chippers, sawmill waste, all kinds of stuff that's free by the truckload. You don't need or want split, dried hardwoods. You want little stuff that'll fit in a small firebox. But it's not for everybody, and its really not suited to commuting--you have to light the fire, get it going, refuel--its' better for delivery truck work, where you keep the thing going all day, and can carry with you as much as you need for the day. Dan On Jan 5, 2010, at 5:47 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Send Mercedes mailing list submissions to mercedes@okiebenz.com To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com You can reach the person managing the list at mercedes-ow...@okiebenz.com When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than Re: Contents of Mercedes digest... Today's Topics: 1. Re: running temps in the cold? (Mitch Haley) 2. Re: running temps in the cold? (Benz Hogs) 3. Re: New CL claim (Mitch Haley) 4. Re: '83 240D in review (Curt Raymond) 5. Re: New CL claim (Curt Raymond) 6. Re: running temps in the cold? (ernest breakfield) 7. Re: running temps in the cold? (was: Re: glowing in the cold) (ernest breakfield) 8. Re: running temps in the cold? (ernest breakfield) 9. Re: New CL claim (Rich Thomas) 10. Oil separator part deux (Curt Raymond) 11. Re: glowing in the cold (WILTON) 12. Re: New CL claim (WILTON) 13. Re: New CL claim (WILTON) 14. Re: Bio subsidy (Gary Hurst) -- Message: 1 Date: Tue, 05 Jan 2010 16:17:36 -0500 From: Mitch Haley m...@voyager.net To: Mercedes Discussion List mercedes@okiebenz.com Subject: Re: [MBZ] running temps in the cold? Message-ID: 4b43ac70.6010...@voyager.net Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed I can think of a few things, the heater could be drawing all the heat, or your thermostat housing could be eroded, or your thermostat could be stuck open. Mitch. -- Message: 2 Date: Tue, 05 Jan 2010 15:16:19 -0600 From: Benz Hogs benz-n-h...@gulseth.net To: Mercedes Discussion List mercedes@okiebenz.com Subject: Re: [MBZ] running temps in the cold? Message-ID: 4b43ac23.1030...@gulseth.net Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed You need a new thermostat if the temp takes more than 5 minutes to reach 80-85C. Every Benz diesel that I have driven (with a new thermostat) has reached 85c within 2 miles of home at 30-40mph in sub-freezing weather. Luther KB5QHUAlma, Ark '87 300SDL (300,xxx mi) ernest breakfield wrote: only slightly related; what kind of operating temps are you guys that live in real cold seeing? here where temps rarely get much below the 20s-40s this time of year, i still don't often see the coolant temp indicate anything above 80C until it's been on the highway at speed/load for many miles. (i've already played with changing out the thermostat to units i've verified are opening at the proper temps.) i'm sure this is exacerbated by the fact that we're running almost pure BioDiesel almost all of the time as we can see the temps come up quicker and higher when we have to run #2 instead of B99 on road trips, but i can run around town all day and never see the coolant reach the normal area on the gauge even when temps are into the 50s and higher. FWIW, the car starts fine on a single glow cycle, but (no surprise!) definitely runs stronger when warm. i know some veteran diesel-heads used to be seen with radiators shrouded or grills even completely blocked in the cold to keep temps up where they're supposed to be; what are the thoughts regarding doing this with a 617 turbo-diesel? cheers! e '85 300D (~187K) Berkeley, CA
Re: [MBZ] 126 PSP leak
On Dec 28, 2009, at 6:00 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: I have a quite bad leak on the PSP (goes empty in less than 100miles). Hoses and connections appear dry. Pulley is dry. Fluid drips on ground is just inside of left front wheel. ??? Hans: I have the same car, same leak. It's steering rack seals. Fortunately, mine is much slower--every 1,000 miles or so I need to top up the reservoir. It is much worse if I don't drive the car for a while, however. I'm just living with mine. Has your car sat for a long time? If so, driving it may help. Last resort short of a rebuilt rack is to try some lucas power steering fluid. It will swell the seals enough to stop the leak for a while, and then they will fail catastrophically later. At least such was my experience when I used the stuff on my Merkur Scorpio. Dan 82 300SD, 323k ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Heart Attacks, etc.
I saw a bumper sticker once that I wish I had. It says: I drive way too fast to worry about my cholesterol Dan 82 300SD, 323k On Dec 22, 2009, at 3:34 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Send Mercedes mailing list submissions to mercedes@okiebenz.com To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com You can reach the person managing the list at mercedes-ow...@okiebenz.com When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than Re: Contents of Mercedes digest... Today's Topics: 1. Re: project 240D (Kaleb C. Striplin) 2. Cars for Sale (Eric Schusterman) 3. Re: Erl? (Gary Hurst) 4. Re: OT - Mac Starting Point? (Gary Hurst) 5. Re: Cars for Sale (Mitch Haley) 6. Re: Battery drain - 87 300D (WILTON) 7. Re: Battery drain - 87 300D (Jim Cathey) 8. Re: Back to 115 headlights again (R A Bennell) 9. Re: Admin, lists down (R A Bennell) 10. Re: OT - Mac Starting Point? (ernest breakfield) 11. Re: OT - Mac Starting Point? (dave walton) 12. Re: OT - Mac Starting Point? (Allan Streib) 13. Re: OT - Mac Starting Point? (dave walton) 14. Re: output? (relng...@aol.com) 15. Re: Battery drain - 87 300D (WILTON) -- Message: 1 Date: Tue, 22 Dec 2009 07:52:41 -0600 From: Kaleb C. Striplin ka...@striplin.net To: Mercedes Discussion List mercedes@okiebenz.com Subject: Re: [MBZ] project 240D Message-ID: 4b30cf29.1020...@striplin.net Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed in europe they started in 76 TE wrote: W123 body style ran from 1977 to 1985. It was preceded by the W114/ W115 and was replaced by the W124 in 1986. -- Kaleb C. Striplin/Claremore, OK 95 E300, 92 500SEL, 92 300SD, 92 300E 4Matic, 91 350SDL, 91 300D, 89 560SEL, 87 300SDL x2, 85 380SE 5.0 Euro, 85 190D, 84 190D, 84 300D euro manny, 76 240D, 76 300D, http://www.okiebenz.com -- Message: 2 Date: Sun, 20 Dec 2009 20:22:54 -0800 From: Eric Schusterman eos...@gmail.com To: mercedes@okiebenz.com Subject: [MBZ] Cars for Sale Message-ID: 9d8af0e40912202022k57eb9e75t7b038276e0b3...@mail.gmail.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 Greeting's All: I'm trying to find a good home for TWO 123 chassis vehicles. I can provide all the info but was curious if I can post anything on your website...I didn't see a classified section. The quick story on these rust free California cars is as follows: 1983 300TD Blue with Blue interior. 310K miles. Car is in good condition and would be a decent daily driver. Price is approx.$3200.00 1985 300D Burgundy with Beige MB Tex. 135Kmiles. this car is a keeper. Straight and all doors close tight. Dash is good except for 2 tiny cracks beginning at the usual speaker locations. $5000.00 one person owns both vehicles and they are at my mechanic's shop here in Burbank, CA. The mechanic will stand behind the vehicles and provide full disclosure of any necessary mechanicals coming 'down the pike'. My involvement is only as a person who has some time and loves these cars and desires that they go to a good home(s). Let me know if you can help me find homes for these cars. All the best, Eric ps- If anyone is serious about either of these vehicles, they may email me directly at eos...@gmail.com -- Eric Schusterman -- Message: 3 Date: Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:36:30 -0500 From: Gary Hurst jabbahur...@gmail.com To: Mercedes Discussion List mercedes@okiebenz.com Subject: Re: [MBZ] Erl? Message-ID: 8b0e7cce0912210536m3c6afadj9370c3b1e966c...@mail.gmail.com Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 rem oil is so much better On Sun, Dec 20, 2009 at 10:37 PM, OK Don okd...@gmail.com wrote: Isn't one of the main componenets of WD40 parafin? I wouldn't want that in my crankcase. On Sun, Dec 20, 2009 at 8:51 PM, Curt Raymond curtlud...@yahoo.com wrote: I coated my bicycle with it once when I was a youth. We didn't have anyplace convenient inside to keep it so I figured if it had to stay outside it'd be at least a little protected. Seemed like it helped so I did it every year... I bet if you had a badly sludged engine and took out the plugs, filled it with WD40, cranked it for 30-40 seconds, drained it and refilled with engine oil it'd probably be beneficial. Not more beneficial than the same thing with kerosene which would be a lot cheaper... -Curt -- OK Don CONSERVATIVE, n. A statesman who is enamored of existing evils, as distinguished from the Liberal, who wishes to replace them with others. The Devil's Dictionary Ambrose Bierce ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives
[MBZ] Mannheim Steamroller MBZ Connection
Jim Cathey wrote: We saw the West coast Mannheim Steamroller touring Christmas concert Friday... My wife did not get to sit with us---they required her presence on the stage! They had hired her to play oboe and cor anglais with them. (They hire locals to fill in their number, she was one of about ten dressed in black sitting in the back.) They did spotlight her for the solos, of which there were several. She did well, and was even complimented (off-stage) by the recorder player. I'm so proud! Jim--You should be proud! You may not know that there is a Mercedes connection to Mannheim Steamroller. But there is, and I own it! The second owner of my 82 300SD was Jackson Barkey, keyboard artist for Mannheim (the first owner was the CEO of Smith Wesson, but that's another story). Presumably it was Jackson that added the rock star window tint to this car, a still-gorgeous lapis-blue and saddle- leather example. At one point, he had an accident while pulling out of the post office, and at that time had the car not only repaired, but substantially touched up--paint buffed out, and mirrors, bumpers, and wheels repainted and euro lights swapped in for the US-spec ones. The car has clearly always been garaged, as the leather is in fine shape with no rips or tears and the dash and wood are without cracks. Jackson sold it about 16 years ago to Dan Stratton, Mannheim's cover artist and album designer. Dan, a big-time foreign car enthusiast, mechanic, and collector as well as extremely talented freelance artist, used it as his daily driver for ten years, until he lost some storage was forced to sell one of his many cars. I found out about it six years ago through the predecessor to this list, when I was looking to get a 300Dt and asked about what to look for when buying such. Dan happened to mention his SD was for sale about 120 miles from me in Omaha, and a little research instantly sold me on upgrading my ambitions from a 123 to a 126. I looked at it that weekend and drove it home for $4,000. Dan had tears in his eyes when I left his driveway. I didn't feel too badly, however--he still had his mint 560 SEL to comfort him. The SD has been my daily driver since, used for many multi-thousand- mile trips over all kinds of roads in all weather. ONce it took me to Maine and back twice nearly back-to-back, logging 7,500 miles in two weeks, through three blizzards and over hellish frost-heaved Maine backroads at speed and with extraordinary poise and comfort. It still looks and runs great at 320k miles. I send an email to Stratton annually, telling him that Sadie is still running strong, and thanking him for making her available to me. She is still my daily driver and now racks up 600 miles of commuting a week, still getting between 27 and 30 mpg, depending on how fast I feel like driving, and is our long-distance cruiser as well. I hope to keep Sadie going for another 200k. My favorite car of all time. Dan Weeks 82 300SD, 320k 88 300TE, ???K ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Questions on configuring the cargo area
On Nov 1, 2009, at 11:05 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: 3) How tp put the back seats down to increase the cargo area This is the only one I know the answer to. Flip the seat bottoms up by lifting on the latch (it has finger grips molded into it) on the side of the seat bottom. That's the easy part. THen pull REALLY REALLY HARD on the seat back. I went for 2 years without being able to figure out how to lower the seat backs. I couldn't find a catch anywhere. Turns out there isn't one. IT's a friction catch, and it's really tough to dislodge. Finally I got so mad I just grabbed the seat back and hauled on it, and whaddaya know. Have fun! Dan 88 300TE 82 300SD, 320k ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Getting seats down on 300TE
On Nov 1, 2009, at 5:59 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Headrests will have to be stored somewhere else, alas. On mine, there are holes to insert the headrest support rods into on top of the upward-facing edge of the seat bottoms when the bottoms are folded up against the front seats. You can drop the headrests in there, and they're nicely stowed, and don't intrude on the cargo area. Very slick. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] College Tuition was Back from Boston
On Aug 28, 2009, at 1:10 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Lots of the small colleges are running at $50k. Amherst, Holy Cross, Tufts, Bowdion, Colby, middlebury, Providence, Brown, Renselear, Wheaton, Bennington, and a few more that we just crossed off the list and are gone from my mind clay Clay--unless you're filthy rich, don't cross 'em off. I'm an admissions officer for a very selective, very expensive small private college. $46k a year. The only folks who pay that much can easily afford it--88% of students are on some form of financial aid, and we cap loans--last year, the cap was $2k a year. THe rest are mostly grants, etc. There are students who attend my college for less than it would cost them to attend the state university WITH in-state tuition and a fair amount of financial aid there. In general, the higher the price tag and the more prestige, the better the financial aid. Don't rule 'em out if your kid is really interested. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] More Re; colleges
On Aug 28, 2009, at 1:10 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Guidance staff figured the boy would fit well in these schools. He is not interested in local schools or nice ones below 45 degrees latitude. Sun seems to be too much for him. I say University of St. Petersburg or the Lenin school of larger schooling clay Bowdoin, Bates, WIlliams, Bennington are good choices of northern schools in New England, in the midwest, check out Macalester, Carleton (MN), Kenyon, Oberlin (OH) and Grinnell (IA). All superb schools. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] 30 mpg 126 300SD
Well, I finally slowed down to the 70 mph speed limit, and I'm now getting 29.5 mpg with my 300SD with 316K miles on it. Used to get 27, going 80-85 or so. This is the 1500 mile average so far on my new 120- mile daily RT commute down Rt 80 in central Iowa. Not using air. Very pleased. May still squeak it higher as I get to know the route better. So far, this is a 3-tank average. I now believe the PO, who claimed to get 32 at 55 before the speed limits changed. Even nicer now that diesel here is only 7 cents more than gas. I doubt a 240D with a stick would get better mileage. Wonder what I'd get if I started drafting trucks? Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] $200 300D, blown motor, Des Moines
Oh, Kalebor Loren http://desmoines.craigslist.org/ctd/1280418908.html No interest or affiliation. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Truck to the crusher
On Jun 11, 2009, at 8:03 PM, wonko wrote: I am more tree branches and grass clippings (all to be composted, by the way). Uh, Don? Just get a trailer hitch and a utility trailer. What I've done for years. Hauls more than a pickup, lower, easier to load, and you can tow it easy with your 240D. Hell, I towed mine with my 70 hp 1.6d vw vanagon. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Flush VS Change
On Jun 12, 2009, at 6:04 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Does anyone have an opinion on transmission fluid/filter change versus transmission fluid flush?? I am uncertain of what may be the best course of action.? I have a 96 e300d that probably would benefit from one of the two and wanted some thought on which would be the best.? Get the fluid change, including draining the TC, and get the filter screen cleaned. My 82 300SD was sometimes not shifting into 4th, and sometimes downshifting into 3rd for no reason. Asked for a drain, refill, and filter clean. Got the car back, same symptoms. TOok it back and asked what they'd done. THey did a flush. Made them do what I asked (for no charge, of course), and it's been shifting great for the last 30k miles. THere is a difference. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Compass, Jetta
Bill and Bill's Wife's Darling WIfe :-), I'd stay away from both. I've driven an compass and was unimpressed, and it got poor reviews. Chrysler's quality lately has been the worst of any mfr. In addition, I've heard nothing but bad stories about late-model TDI VWs, unfortunately, because I've driven them and LOVE the cars. My son- in-law had one and it was constantly at the dealers for major problems--the clutch disk literally fell apart for no apparent reason, and the shift linkage disintegrated as well and had to be replaced and then constantly readjusted. Another friend has had one that has spent MONTHS at the dealers for various major problems--it has dropped TWO valves on two different occasions, and eventually the head and the turbo had to be replaced as well. All under warrantee, fortunately, but still--he was out the use of the vehicle for long periods of time, and the inconvenience and aggravation drove him nuts. He has driven nothing but VW diesels since 1978, and is going to sell his while its still under warranty and won't buy another. My son-in-law sold his after the last repair for the same reason. They are wonderful driving, handling, and economical on fuel, but their bad reputation is, in my experience, well deserved. I've owned 3 early VW diesels myself--an 86 Jetta, a 92 Jetta, and an 82 vanagon, and and would still be driving VWDs but for the quality issues. The 92 was what drove me to Merecedes. My 82 SD, actually, is easier to work on and was cheaper in the long run (even with worse fuel mileage) than the 92 Jetta, which was a fun little car but had head cracking issues and significantly worse quality than the 86 and was very difficult to work on in a cramped engine compartment (it had power steering and a/c, which the 86 did not). Dan On Jun 7, 2009, at 7:00 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Bill R wrote: The wife has just found another option besides the Jeep Compass Ltd. Anyone out there have an opinion (ha!) on the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI? All I know is that it's a diesel mini-suv. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] NO/LO OIL PRESSURE
On May 25, 2009, at 7:45 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Some years ago I had similar symptoms on my Dodge Dakota, the gauge would read normal at idle then dive down. I drove it 100 paranoid miles home like that. A new sensor (plus the special tool to replace said sensor) fixed the issue. -Curt Thanks, Curt. My brother, the diesel mechanic also said that's a common sensor fail mode. I'm going to order one from Rusty and swap one in. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 42, Issue 110
Both great suggestions! WIll do. Thanks! Dan Dan Weeks Freelance Writing Photography 515/279-4825 On May 22, 2009, at 7:00 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Send Mercedes mailing list submissions to mercedes@okiebenz.com To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com You can reach the person managing the list at mercedes-ow...@okiebenz.com When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than Re: Contents of Mercedes digest... Today's Topics: 1. Re: NO/LOW OIL PRESSURE UPDATE (Peter Frederick) 2. Re: NO/LOW OIL PRESSURE UPDATE (Tom Hargrave) -- Message: 1 Date: Fri, 22 May 2009 01:12:55 -0500 From: Peter Frederick psf...@earthlink.net Subject: Re: [MBZ] NO/LOW OIL PRESSURE UPDATE To: Mercedes Discussion List mercedes@okiebenz.com Message-ID: a21495bd-e9d8-46c1-b3b2-d4a1e5fdc...@earthlink.net Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; delsp=yes; format=flowed I'd also replace the oil filter -- if the internal seal was dislodged during installation, you will have low oil pressure from the full- flow portion being diverted to the pan, bypassing the fine filter. Easy enough to do. Peter On May 21, 2009, at 9:35 PM, Dan Weeks wrote: Today I removed the dash cluster and removed and cleaned all the grounds and replaced the cluster. Found the OP sensor on the filter housing, cleaned the connection. Started the car, and still have the same gauge behavior: gauge pegs as usual on startup, stays there for a few seconds, then starts to drop, eventually hitting 0. I can't find a mechanical OP test gauge anywhere in town. Guess I need to order the one from Harbor Freight, or just order the sensor from rusty and try replacing it. While I had the dash out, I jumpered my dash light rheostat as someone on the list suggested, and now my dash lights work, so that's something... Thanks again for the advice, all. Dan 82 SD, 314k ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com -- Message: 2 Date: Fri, 22 May 2009 01:37:31 -0500 From: Tom Hargrave tharg...@hiwaay.net Subject: Re: [MBZ] NO/LOW OIL PRESSURE UPDATE To: 'Mercedes Discussion List' mercedes@okiebenz.com Message-ID: 05ce01c9daa7$c9001830$3400a...@tomrmkj2yanjy9 Content-Type: text/plain; charset=windows-1250 Dan, Sometimes the wire will be broken near the connector that attaches to the sensor. The break will be covered by insulation the wire will seem intact. To check for this, bend the wire back forth bear the connector. If you find one spot more flexible than the rest, you found it. Thanks, Tom Hargrave www.kegkits.com http://www.kegkits.com/JABF/ 256-656-1924 -Original Message- From: mercedes-boun...@okiebenz.com [mailto:mercedes-boun...@okiebenz.com ] On Behalf Of Peter Frederick Sent: Friday, May 22, 2009 1:13 AM To: Mercedes Discussion List Subject: Re: [MBZ] NO/LOW OIL PRESSURE UPDATE I'd also replace the oil filter -- if the internal seal was dislodged during installation, you will have low oil pressure from the full- flow portion being diverted to the pan, bypassing the fine filter. Easy enough to do. Peter On May 21, 2009, at 9:35 PM, Dan Weeks wrote: Today I removed the dash cluster and removed and cleaned all the grounds and replaced the cluster. Found the OP sensor on the filter housing, cleaned the connection. Started the car, and still have the same gauge behavior: gauge pegs as usual on startup, stays there for a few seconds, then starts to drop, eventually hitting 0. I can't find a mechanical OP test gauge anywhere in town. Guess I need to order the one from Harbor Freight, or just order the sensor from rusty and try replacing it. While I had the dash out, I jumpered my dash light rheostat as someone on the list suggested, and now my dash lights work, so that's something... Thanks again for the advice, all. Dan 82 SD, 314k ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com Internal Virus Database is out-of-date. Checked by AVG. Version
[MBZ] NO/LOW OIL PRESSURE UPDATE
Today I removed the dash cluster and removed and cleaned all the grounds and replaced the cluster. Found the OP sensor on the filter housing, cleaned the connection. Started the car, and still have the same gauge behavior: gauge pegs as usual on startup, stays there for a few seconds, then starts to drop, eventually hitting 0. I can't find a mechanical OP test gauge anywhere in town. Guess I need to order the one from Harbor Freight, or just order the sensor from rusty and try replacing it. While I had the dash out, I jumpered my dash light rheostat as someone on the list suggested, and now my dash lights work, so that's something... Thanks again for the advice, all. Dan 82 SD, 314k ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] HELP! LOW/NO OIL PRESSURE
Many thanks for all the help. I've now sniffed my oil, and it smells like oil, so I'm pretty sure my IP seals are OK. I've also taken a good hard look at the OP gauge needle when I switch off the car, and it drops slowly, not instantaneously like the Temp gauge, so I THINK the issue is electrical. I want to make sure my trying the trick below. Can anyone tell me where the gauge sender is on a 617? Thanks! Dan Weeks Freelance Writing Photography 515/279-4825 I think that you can simply unscrew the sender and screw in the appropriate pipe fitting to hook your gauge up to. Barry -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20090519/95e7738e/attachment.html ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] HELP! LOW/NO OIL PRESSURE
'82 300SD 314k daily driver. Runs great. Lately, I'd been noticing oil pressure seemed a bit low at idle, but my idle's set too low, so I didn't think much of it. Today, I notice a half-bar at idle. Slipped it into Neutral, and it came up to a bar. Next short trip, same day, OP fine until car warmed up, then it went down to barely off the peg at idle. Turned around to come home, and OP gradually tailed off to nothing. Stopped the car. Checked oil level, which was fine. Oil seemed a bit thin, but not watery by any means, and the engine was hot. Looked like plenty of oil sitting on the cam when I took the OP filler cap off to check. Started up again, and had between 2 and 3 bar at 2k rpm. Had just a few blocks to go, so drove it back. Needle was quite erratic--would go up to the top peg, then fall down to 0. WHen revved up it would suddenly jump up--most of the time. Sometimes it wouldn't move at all. Got home, with no other signs of low OP--engine ran fine, no unusual noises, no blue smoke. What gives? How can I test the gauge/sensor? Is there any way I can temporarily wire in an aux OP gauge to check? If so, how. I have a somewhat jumpy temp gauge and fuel gauge, and the tach is inop most of the time, so I'm hoping it's just electrical. Is there a pattern/ failure mode for 617 oil pumps? Could something be intermittantly plugging the pickup tube screen? I'm trying to think of everything I can here. Car is parked until I figure this one out. Any advice/test procedures appreciated. Thanks in advance! Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Repair help north IA
Sounds like his vac pump is going out. Mine did that. Drove it for quite some time with intermittent power brakes and manual shutoff. If he wants it fixed soon, he could stop at: Beckley Automotive Services www.beckleyauto.com 901 8th St Des Moines, IA 50309 (515) 243-8185 Get directions Very good indy shop. Not cheap, but they'll do it right. Dan Des Moines 82 300SD, new vac pump -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20090427/3c1f9245/attachment.html ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] 1/2-ton truck
If they don't know much about cars, buying something very used to move halfway across the country is risky. If a bad trans strands them, their costs go up considerably. I'd only buy a truck if they need a truck later. I have a wonderfully ingenious and very cheap utility trailer, made by snowbear and purchased from Home Depot for $600. It is a 5x8 box trailer that converts to a 12.5x8 flatbed, as the headgate and tailgate can be dropped to horizontal. It's low to the ground and weighs 500# empty. Will haul far more volume than a half-ton pickup, and just about anything l can tow it (including my 70 hp Vanagon). It paid for itself in one trip to Iowa from Maine, (has made two round trips so far, both loaded to the gills) and has hauled literally tons and tons and tons of stuff with no maintenance whatsoever. Is endlessly useful, and prevents having to buy a truck. That would be my suggestion for a moving vehicle, if they have a car larger than the mini. Pack both cars, load the trailer, drive the mini, tow the trailer with the other car. They must be careful to load the trailer so the tongue load is right around 10# of the payload. Trailer tows wonderfully. If they need more capacity, towing the trailer with a van or truck should provide such. You don't need much HP to tow. I towed the above trailer from Maine to Iowa with a pickup, with a half-ton in the truck and nearly a ton on the trailer. Pickup was a 1986 S-10 4 cyl, 5 speed. Came all the way home at 65, in 5th, getting 18 mpg. That's only 2.5 liters and 92 hp. Had to downshift to 4th once, to pull the three-mile upgrade ascending the Berkshires on the mass pike. The berkshires are not the rockies, but I was still in 4th, and still going 65 If they tow with an automatic, they need a trans cooler. Sticks are fine as is. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] 380 SEC
My 126 would not upshift to 4th for a while, and a drain-and-refill, along with cleaning the trans filter screen, fixed it. A fluid flush did not. Dan Dan Weeks Freelance Writing Photography 515/279-4825 On Apr 22, 2009, at 12:44 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: What could be wrong with a W126 trans that doesn't shift into 4th, ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Mileage
On Apr 17, 2009, at 7:00 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: You can get the same 28mpg with a 78-79 300SD (1300 miles, one cold start) at 65-80mph without slowing down to climb the hills. But I did it from Florida to Michigan, and the steepest grade in Tennessee was something like 8-9%. I floored it, and the car accelerated from 65-75, but the acceleration was not exactly brisk. A big cam 617 (1980 and later) would have had more power, but I'm not sure it would have the same fuel economy. My Big Cam (82) 300 SD with three adults, a dog, and a cram-full trunk averaged 27.0 mpg running 1600 miles from Iowa to extreme downeast rural Maine with no cold starts. Average speed including stops to eat, pee, and walk the dog was 66 mph according to GPS. Much of the time on the highway, we were doing 80-85. 27 mpg highway is typical, tho before I adjusted the valves I was getting more like 25. This is with 300+k miles on the clock. Lowest I've ever gotten in the same car was the return trip, driving 70 into a 30 mph westerly, with two 16' alden ocean rowing shells on racks on the roof. Their huge wind-catching cockpits, the roof racks, and the headwind pulled the average down to 22 mpg. In town my milage is always 24-26, even in the dead of an iowa winter and all short trips. Dan 82 300SD, 313k miles ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] FS 1969 Mercedes Benz 250, Iowa
Not mine, no affiliation, know nothing about it, but he has been trying to sell it for at least two months. http://desmoines.craigslist.org/cto/885224.html I have a '69 Mercedes Benz 250 for sale. It is currently not running. I purchased the car as a project last summer. I am going to be moving in the next two months and do not know if I will have room to keep it where I am going, so I figured I would downsize. It has a new battery. The carburetors have been completely rebuilt, one new caliper, the other rebuilt, new rotors. I also have a new trunk seal for the vehicle. Both the exterior and the interior are in pretty good shape. I was chasing a vacuum leak, finally found that the intake manifold was loose from the block, bolted that, fixed some of it, and then winter came. I haven't wanted to be out in the cold working on it so that is where it has sat. These pictures were taken by the guy i bought it from in the summer, but the exterior is in the same condition. Note: Just went out yesterday to start it, it'll start fine, but doesn't idle very well. It idled fine prior to winter so I'm guessing it only needs some minor tuning. 515-313-1265 Dan -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20090407/3a672f7b/attachment.html ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Truck for Wacko Engine ID
On Mar 21, 2009, at 9:58 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Guy got quite the deal on paint huh? Looks to be a truck engine... It IS a truck and bus engine-- an OM 314 (4 cyl, 4 liter, 90 hp), the very engine my friend was looking for for his 309 bus. I've forwarded the listing to him. Not sure he's getting his email (he travels a lot) or would be interested in the whole truck, so if anyone else wants it, bid away. That's a very strong mill, and quite economical for its grunt, but not fast. Those 90 horses are Percherons, not ponies. I'm not surprised only gear one is left if he's been hauling rock with it. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] QUEBEC ROADS
Curt: Route 27 from Wiscasset to Coburn Gore is a GREAT ride--very twisty and scenic road north of Kingfield, and downright rambunctious north of Stratton. The pavement used to be hellish bad, with frequent washouts into Dead River, but in the past few years they've done some improvements. As soon as you cross the border into CA, the scenery changes from forested wilderness to open farming country. The roads have long sightlines and wander through small towns. Great biking roads of a different kind. I don't remember them as being awfully bad, either. You can certainly make very good time on them--back when I drove a Merkur Scorpio, I'd cruise 'em in the triple digits. I've always headed west from there, but I've also always wanted to head up to Levis and take 132 along the St. Lawrence. As I remember, your cabin's way up in the county somewhere, so you could come back in at Madawaska and head down from there. Should be a great ride. Would love to hear about it. Dan Family originally from Lakeville Plantation, near Springfield Dan Weeks Freelance Writing Photography 515/279-4825 On Mar 18, 2009, at 6:15 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: I seem to remember somebody on the list being from Quebec but does anybody have experience driving around that province? A friend and I are thinking of taking a motorcycle trip this fall up into Quebec, specifically from central MA up through Vermont to Valcourt to see the Bombardier Museum, then to Quebec City, then around the top of Maine for a day or two at my camp and back home. Figure to make a 7 day trip out of it and travel something like 1000 miles. http://maps.google.com/maps?f=dsource=s_dsaddr=winchendon,+madaddr=valcou rt,+qc,+canada+to:quebec+city+qc+to:car ibou,+maine+to:winchendon, +mahl=engeocode=mra=lsrtol=0,1,2,3sll=45.2439 53,-70.235596sspn=5.275545,9.799805ie =UTF8ll=45.073521,-70.147705spn=5.291326,9.799805z=7 I'm curious about the roads, we've played with setting Google to avoid highways and it adds a surprisingly small amount of time... Thanks -Curt -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20090318/357396e1/attachment.html ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] OM 314 Wanted
On Feb 6, 2009, at 7:32 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: A friend of mine is looking for an OM 314, the 4-liter, 4-cyl NA bus engine, to drop into a 309 chassis airport shuttle bus. Wasn't there one in Portland recently? Craigslist? There was, but the ad's gone now. Can't believe anyone bought it for the price asked ($1500 IIRC?) so maybe it'll get reposted. Would be worth keeping an eye out. Alex Thanks for the info. Since my friend bought TWO 309s, one in very decent running shape (he drove it to NM from San Diego, getting 20 mpg) I think he'd find the price a bit steep. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] 123 300TD FACTORY LUGGAGE CARRIER WANTED
Folks: A friend of mine is looking for a factory luggage carrier for his 123 300TD. Word is that these are aluminum boxes with strut-raised, hinged covers designed to fit the 300TD roof rack. He's got a family of 7 and when they're all aboard, there's no room for gear. Any leads appreciated. Pmail me and I'll relay the message, or pmail him directly at: kazoer...@nnmt.net Thanks! Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] OM 314 WANTED (309 chassis bus engine)
Folks: A friend of mine is looking for an OM 314, the 4-liter, 4-cyl NA bus engine, to drop into a 309 chassis airport shuttle bus. If anyone knows where one exists, dead or alive, let me know and I'll pass on the information. Or you can email him directly at: kazoer...@nnmt.net Thanks! Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] OT: The Dangers of Des Moines, was Is This Too Cheap?
On Jan 16, 2009, at 8:27 PM, Curt wrote: To put it in perspective Don and Debbie were visibly bothered when Angie and I told them how we'd gone from the airport to the highway when leaving Des Moines for Jefferson. On the way back to the airport we took exactly the same route and could find no reason to think that street was anything other than normal... Granted in the last couple years I've hung out in NYC more that most people but I thought Des Moines was totally benign... Des Moines is totally benign, or mostly. I live here. I took the route you probably took to the interstate (MLK Ave) twice a day every day for 14 years when I worked downtown, all hours of day and night, often on a motorcycle, never a problem. SHeesh, some people. Only excitement I've experienced in 21 years of living here was the time I interrupted 3 Crips from LA in the process of robbing my safest neighborhood in Des Moines neighborhood bank. They left with three huge bags of cash, pointed a 9mm at me and told me not to move, so I didn't... for a bit. Then I followed their getaway car while on the phone with 911 and got them all busted. It was raining cop cars by the time we'd gone two miles. I felt like I was at ground zero in The Blues Brothers. Carry a loaded cell phone and know how to use it, that's my motto. No MB content--I chased 'em down in an 86 Caprice wagon (with woodgrain, if you must know), not exactly a pursuit vehicle. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] 505 Poo-goat
On Jan 16, 2009, at 8:27 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: I always loved the look of the 505.? Would be fun to have, but no idea where I'd ever get parts for one around here. Ed 300E 505 TD was a nice car. 504 was nicer in my opinion, but didn't come turboed. A French 240D. My dad had one, and I always loved driving it. Aluminum heads were their only real weak point, and now you can't get parts. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] BATTERY COMBINER
On Jan 14, 2009, at 1:58 PM, Scott wrote: On my last boat I used a thing called a battery combiner which was essentially a relay that connected the alternator to the house battery after the starting battery was charged. I just looked at the West Marine site and their currently listed stuff is $$$. But Google showed a more reasonable possibility from Defender: http://www.defender.com/product.jsp?path=-1|328|51495|606044id=605576 But any portable battery isn't likely to provide much light at n Thanks, Scott. Yes, what I've found is that portable batteries don't have enough juice for what I need--running a computer. I've resisted a house battery due to the wiring issues (I'm no electrician, and its 5 below here right now!) but this looks like a very simple solution, along with a sealed battery. Thanks much for the advice! Dan -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20090114/4c27ca53/attachment.html ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 38, Issue 107
Thanks, Tim! I'll check them out. Much appreciated. Dan On Jan 13, 2009, at 10:58 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Not sure about house battery, but my jumper box (Sam's 'Power On Board') came with a lighter-to-lighter cable and an unswitched lighter plug. It would be simple to add such a plug to any battery, I would think. If it is a big battery, mind the current limit on the lighter. You might want to set up a separate outlet with a rectifier, too, to avoid feedback when the car is off. A switch would work too, or you could unplug. In either latter case you have to remember, though. You could use an inverter as a rectifier if you have a switched lighter plug, but that's expensive unless (like me) you've got the parts hanging around and lots of room in the vehicle. :) When I was at Sam's yesterday I saw the slot for my box had been filled with a Black and Decker version of the thing (now $60ish), but it is probably the same if it has a lighter jack. -Tim ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] OT HOUSE BATTERY ALTERNATIVE
I travel for weeks at a time in a camping van (a converted Previa minivan) and I'm looking for a simple alternative to a hard-wired house battery, and I wonder whether anyone here has every run across something like what I'm thinking of: A 12-volt battery with a power point outlet, like one of those jump- start kits, EXCEPT that it would be recharged by plugging into a vehicle cig lighter while the vehicle is running, rather than pugging it into 110 to recharge. That would be slick--a house battery that you could use at night, recharge with the alternator while driving, and move from vehicle to vehicle--or use as emergency power during a power outage inside, as needed. Does anyone make such a critter? Thanks! Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Who is in Des Moines?
On Jan 8, 2009, at 11:05 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: A friend of mine sent me this article from the Des Moines Register. They are kicking the poor homeless out of a camp. What is really bad (for me) at least, is that they are kicking out Don Snook http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20081203/NEWS/812030381 Donald H. Snook I am, Don. That's been an ongoing story. Not enough shelters, a group of concerned people erected better huts where these folks were squatting anyway, city bulldozed them, continues to hem and haw about erecting new shelters for folks. Meanwhile, these people are out in the cold (and it really is!), and the good people who spent lots of energy and materials trying to help these folks have found all their efforts not merely wasted, but destroyed. Seems awfully draconian to me. If I see you living out of your Caddy down by the river, now I'll know why! :-) Dan -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20090108/9f59a1fa/attachment.html ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] PRevia
On Jan 6, 2009, at 11:59 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: The Previa disappeared from the US market soon after it's very poor crash test results became public. Worst of all of the minivans of the period. Really! Four star driver rating, 3 star passenger. The vast majority of my driving will be alone. In any case, it's no doubt better than the vanagon! Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] PREVIA AWD
On Jan 6, 2009, at 11:59 PM, Clay wrote: I have found that AWD is night and day for handling in the previa. there is a hill I climb that it just grips and goes. Good to know in case I ever upgrade. Does yours have the supercharger, too? All the AWD cars I've ever driven (not many, admittedly) have had a lot of roll resistance, which is why I wasn't keen on it. ALso,becuase of the added weight and maintenance, given that I bought an 18-year- old one. What was the big repair yours needed? Separated Accessories Driveshaft? Transfer case? Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] PREVIA
On Jan 7, 2009, at 3:37 PM, Zedic wrote: I can say that when I worked for Toyota the Previa was a very trouble free van. One small problem with a cooling pipe that was a bitch to fix but other than thatno problems.ok, front flex pipe for the exhaust. Very reliable van for a new design. You decide on the looksI liked itMUCH better than the Space Cruiser, Town Ace that came before it! Rubbish! Zedic Good to hear, Jeff. Thanks. THat reputation is what led me to buy one, along with the mid-engine position for handling. I like the looks just fine--a bit less generic than most, and probably quite slippery. I like the w-shaped dash as well-quite ergonomic. Interestingly, although they look like a pod or egg or bean on the outside, the inside is quite square, with lots of useable space. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 38, Issue 57
On Jan 7, 2009, at 4:49 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Did a Goggle search to see what this van looked like and here was the first hit: Placenta Previa: Overview - eMedicine Yeah, it does look kind of like a placenta, come to think of it... :-) Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Previa
On Jan 7, 2009, at 7:30 PM, clay wrote: When I got the van it has 101k on the clock already. New tires and fresh filters before I took it for a two week road trip through CA. No issue but a strange oil filter error that a fresh filter solved. I think all the crap was dislodged when I put M1 in. I have had the transmission filter replaced which also solved the pan leak (new gasket) but that falls under normal care. Fresh plugs, and injectors after 50k on the clock. Then I had the O2 error, which is fixed by replacing them. Nothing else has happened. Kid barfs and barfs in it, so it stinks, but that is not mechanical, except for the kid. It is standard 4 banger without SC, which was only an option after 1993. I do not notice much lag or resistance, though mileage is at best 22 highway. Has the towing package, so stays within temp up grades and is able to haul loads to the dump just fine. Good to know, Clay. My P.O. shows highway mileage maximum of 25+ mpg or so, average highway more like 22-23, so my guess is the AWD does make a bit of difference that way, but not much. Mine does not have a tow package, so I'll need to add a trans cooler and a trans fluid temp gauge before I do any serious towing. He just changed the oil, but from next change on it gets M1. Good to know about the filter error, I'll keep a spare filter and an oil change kit aboard for the first couple long trips after the M1 goes in, just in case. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] VANS, WAS HAD A PEEK AT GM TODAY
On Jan 6, 2009, at 6:31 PM, Loren wrote: All in all, I have been favorably impressed with the 1999 and 2000 Dog grand caravans we have had. It is a definite pain to change the back plugs and wires, but you only need to do that 0 to 2 times per lifetime of the van. You can buy a pretty decent Dodge for $3000 as long as you don't care what year it is. I just bought a '91 Toyota Previa to replace my Vanagon Westfalia, which blew an engine 1600 miles from home. Got a one-owner, every record, obsessively maintained vehicle in mint condition inside and out for $2,850. That's over book, but worth it to me. It's like a new vehicle. Only had it three days, but so far very impressed. It's mid- engined, so handles remarkably well for a minivan, with a balanced chassis and a low center of gravity. Not great to change plugs on either, however. I've heard great things about the later Caravans also, but these Previas have an almost mercedes-like, fanatical following, repleate with stories of near-million-mile vehicles still on the original engine (a timing chain equipped, 4-valve, 138 hp DOHC 2.4 4) and transmissions being rebuilt only after more than 700k miles of service. We shall see. They're still made and sold abroad, almost 20 years after their introduction, but they never sold well here--were considered wierd looking (they are), underpowered (not by a long shot!) and were also hampered by American preference for FWD, which I don't share. Many consider the replacement toyota van sold here, with a name that escapes me right now, inferior to this one. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] PREVIAS
On Jan 6, 2009, at 9:03 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: like the Previa too, and I have also noticed that they have a cult following. Sounds like you made a good buy. As far as power is concerned, wasn't there a factory-supercharged version? Alex There was, Alex: it added about 20-some hp, 161 or something, up from 138. There was also an AWD version. I didn't think either of those options was a priority for my uses. With twice the power and less weight and wind resistance than my vanagon, it feels like a rocket as is. I've always gotten around fine with RWD, and if it gets really bad, I chain up. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 38, Issue 47
On Jan 6, 2009, at 9:03 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: You think previas have a cult following, you should see the spacecruisers. There was even a 4x4 version of that, and IIRC the ones with clutches got low range. I did a thousand miles or so in a week in one of those. Small, cramped, underpowered when loaded, and a chopped up layout. I wasn't impressed. Choppy ride. I think the Prevvy is quite an improvement, EXCEPT offroad, when the SC with all-trak would be much better D ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Buffer
On Jan 4, 2009, at 6:35 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: When using a random buffer to buff a car, do you use the buffer to apply the wax then remove it by hand? Yes. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 38, Issue 29
On leather, leatherique. Otherwise, silicone spray. Dan On Jan 4, 2009, at 6:35 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: hat is good to use on the interior. I know armor all is not good, causes cracks or so I have heard. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 38, Issue 7
On Jan 1, 2009, at 1:22 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: I am looking for an inexpensive software program that will help me plan my trips in the most cost effective way. I'll second the rec for google maps. I'm a freelance writer who often has to interview lots of people in one city in one trip. I just type in all the addresses, hitting add a location, or whatever it says, until they're all in. THen I look at the map that's resulted. Then I just change the sequence until I hit the lowest mileage count. It won't do it automatically, but the time you save doing it manually-- not ot mention the fuel--more than makes up for itself. I've not bothered to get a GPS, as google works so well. Instead, I got a small portable printer (cannon ip90) that I can use on the go if I need to plot trips on the road. Less than a hundred bucks, and works great. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Wheel Straightening
On Dec 31, 2008, at 9:40 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Anyone had any luck having alloy wheels straightened? I have two on my wife's Focus that are warped according to the tire shop. No sharp dents or anything, just not true and thus they vibrate at certain speeds. Yep. An outfit in town specializes in it. Straightened a pretty badly dented Saab 9-5 alloy wheel. Results looked and run perfectly. I was amazed and impressed. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 37, Issue 257
On Dec 31, 2008, at 11:28 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Dan Weeks theprofil...@dwx.com said: Yep. An outfit in town specializes in it. Straightened a pretty badly dented Saab 9-5 alloy wheel. Results looked and run perfectly. I was amazed and impressed. Which town is this? What's the name of the place? What did it cost? Allan -- 1983 300D Des Moines, Iowa. Can't remember the cost, but much less than that of a new wheel. Here's one franchise, you might be able to find more with some googling: www.mobilewheelrepair.com Good Luck! Dan -- next part -- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://okiebenz.com/pipermail/mercedes_okiebenz.com/attachments/20081231/31940ea6/attachment.html ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] OT CHEV 6.2 L DIESEL VAN
Thanks, all, for the responses. Still interetested in any additional thoughts. On Dec 25, 2008, at 12:30 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: 1983? I'd say the fuel consumption if it's got a three speed, and the tranny if it's got a THM700R4. Seems like the recommendation back then was to lock out overdrive until you were actually on the freeway to help the tranny live longer. I don't think power was a strong point, didn't they make something like 130-140hp back then? The 83 was the first year of the 700R4. Info I have says that year 6.2 in a van made130hp, and got 22 mpg highway at 70, 18-19 around town with a 3.08 gear and 700R4. That doesn't sound like much power, but remember I'm comparing it to a 70 hp diesel vanagon, so it should be fine for my purposes. I had an 86 Caprice wagon with a 700R4, and although I heard bad things about the trans, I towed lotsa trailers with it, and never had a problem. Original trans, 165k miles on it when I got rid of it, so I'm not too concerned, especially with that little power in front of it. The 305 in my caprice was rated at 160 hp. Thanks--I'm staying tuned, and will let you know what I hear. From the pix, it doesn't look rusty. Owner has dropped the price to less than half, and seems desperate to unload it. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] OT 83 CHEV VAN 6.2 DIESEL
I've got a shot at an 83 Chevy Full-size conversion van with 93k on it for $550. Has bed, closet, cooler What are the issues with these rigs? My Vanagon Westfalia Diesel that's my usual assignment-on-the-road rig blew an engine and I've got a 7k mile work trip coming up that I'll need accomodations for. This could work, but I don't want to get something with fatal flaws. I've heard 20 mpg and decent reliability. Yes? Things to check? Gotchas? Thanks In advance! Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 37, Issue 199
On Dec 21, 2008, at 10:46 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: Was there ever a two stroke diesel engine in a car? If not, why not? Seems like doubling power strokes would be a very desirable thing. Not that I know of. You have to really wind them up to make power, which means lots of shifting, and they are NOISY. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] GMC 6-71 Diesels
On Dec 18, 2008, at 3:13 PM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: You think an old Cummins is loud and shakes a lot at idle? ;) Yeah. Someone once described a 6-71 as sounding like an all-night fight between dogs and geese. They don't call 'em screaming JImmies for nothing! Dan Whose brother owns 2 6-71s. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] SDL sluggish
Luther: Sounds like you need to adjust the ALDA. Check the archives. I did that 50k miles ago on my SD, with 260k on it at the time, and it made a huge difference. IT's getting sluggish when cold again, so I probably have to advance it some more. I didn't advance it much to begin with. Check the archives for instructions, as I forget how it's done. QUite simple, though. Dan 82 300SD 312k On Dec 15, 2008, at 11:41 AM, mercedes-requ...@okiebenz.com wrote: That's not the issue here. If it were gelled fuel, the problem would not go away so quickly after such a short time. I'm wondering if this is more like delivery valve seals ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new and used parts go to www.okiebenz.com To search list archives http://www.okiebenz.com/archive/ To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Dans sd
Someone pulled up beside me the other day and asked me whether it was for sale. I said sure. He asked how much. I told him six grand. It really is very nice. D On Nov 27, 2008, at 12:05 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I'll give you $500 for the SD. I will even come to get it. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Trooper
On Nov 26, 2008, at 6:44 PM, Loren wrote: Stumbled over an 87 Trooper while looking to see what pickups go for. Seems like a pretty decent, straight old trooper. manual transmission. What it worth? I think i could buy it for $1500. What to watch out for? (other than rust) How much can it pull? Can it pull a 126 on a trailer 2000 miles? What kind of mileage would it get? I have no idea what it's worth, but I drove a couple of 'em a few hundred miles per back when they were new, and they're completely gutless, even towing nothing. Clunky handling, lots of wind resistance. Practically had to tack into a headwind. I wouldn't want to tow anything with one. Mileage wasn't great either--very low 20s. What do you want for the SDL? Why do you want to pull a 126 2,000 miles? Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Rusty floor well (as in oxidized, not Cullens)
I only have luck with POR 15 if i can get all the scale off with a good power wire brushing and get it good and dry. If not, I prefer just plain old linseed oil. If the scale is thick, I thin it with a bit of turpentine for better penetration. It's not a permanent fix, but it works surprisingly well, slowing rust to nearly a stop. If exposed to weather, I reapply every 6 months or so. Works like a charm, cheap, does not develop a hard skin that can trap moisture underneath. Dan On Nov 25, 2008, at 12:34 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Don't forget to get some POR-15 and put in the floor well where the rust has already started, ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Linseed oil, was Rusty FLoors
Motor oil works, even WD 40 works for a little while. But those oils will sooner or later wash off. So will linseed oil, but it's more tenacious. It also smells better, IMO. Dan On Nov 25, 2008, at 8:52 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: POR 15...linseed oil. Doesn't seem to stop flax rust, though! :-) In the same vein would not used motor oil work? Even cheaper. Doesn't dry, though. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Snook's Caddy
Don: Until that model came out, I hated Caddys for their bloated excess, but I really liked that body style, and have thought since they came out that those were one Caddy I could see myself owning. THey're actually quite compact, yet it seems to me from looking inside, have tremendous room, especially in the back seat. I also heard lots of power and could be coaxed to get high twenties on the highway. Not sure how they handle when pressed, but I'd guess not great. In any case, I'd love to get a full drive report on it from you. I'd say you made out damn well, tho the Volvo was very nice, too. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Car trading
For the first 20 years of my driving life, I never paid more than $500 for a car. Some of my early 150 and 250 cars lasted only a few months (generally lots of miles, though.) Some lasted many years. I could have afforded to pay more, I just liked the game of seeing how cheap a car I could drive, and it made it easy to sample lots of ideosyncratic and semi-upscale cars that I otherwise couldn't have afforded--Peugeots, volvos, a Merkur... The only think I didn't like about them was that they were rarely worth doing any significant repair on. No matter how much I liked them, it was always cheaper to trade than fix. I've had my 82 SD nearly 6 years now, and it's the first exception to that pattern. I plan to keep it as long as I can. It cost me four grand when I bought it, in near excellent shape, which I consider fair, and is the most I've ever paid for a car. I like it better all around than anything I've ever driven, and can't really think of anything I'd rather drive. I've not hesitated to maintain it, even at some cost, as the car is so repairable and solid it's worth the investment. I've grown attached to it, and love everything from puttering slowly around town to flogging the hell out of it, trail- braking corners on backroads on cross-country trips. I love the 617s virtually linear response, and the amazingly agile and balanced chassis and supple ride. I even like the autobox especially because its the only one I've driven that doesn't downshift unless you push the button, even at WOT. Fuel costs don't really bother me, as they're a relatively small in comparison to what a car getting significantly better fuel economy and is durable enough to be worth owning would cost. Also, because because most of my miles are for business and are either deductible or reimbursable. I suppose if it vaporized tomorrow I might look for a 126 SDL (for the engine) or a 123 TD (for the flexibility and towning) or a 123CD (for the agility, added zip, and quiet) but that's pretty damn close to duplicating what I've got. In reality, I'd probably take the first best example of a 126 diesel or 123 TD that I could find. Dan 82 300SD 312k and going strong ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Speeding
On cross-country trips, I used to regularly cruise at triple digits and never got a ticket. I only traveled these speeds, however, behind expensive european touring cars that were very well driven and had radar detectors. I gave them plenty of room and drove smoothly and carefully. Now, of course, no one drives that fast any more, so neither do I. Only did so in very good weather, in my Merkur Scorpio. That car would really fly, and handled extremely well--better than my 300SD. The 300SD I also cruised pretty fast--90s or so. Mostly on I80, I 90, I 94, and most reliable on Quebec 401, but by the time I got it, the fast driving days were mostly over. Only tickets I've every gotten were at a few miles over the speed limit, in town or on two-lanes, when I wasn't paying attention and didn't think I was speeding. Dan On Nov 21, 2008, at 7:51 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Randy wrote: Even if one assumes a 75 mph speed limit, 129 is mort than 50 mph over the limit. That sort of thing often equates to large fines, seized vehicles and taking the bus to work for a few months. I agree and I don't think I will ever drive 120 mph (at least not again). I did test out the fuel cut-off switch on my Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera. At 110 the fuel cuts off and the car starts bucking and jerking until you get below 110. But, I had a good excuse. I was going from Topeka, Kansas to Lawrence, Kansas on the turnpike. I was running late for the Washburn Law Golf tournament. I couldn't be late. I knew all the Troopers on that section of the turnpike. But, I don't think I will be going that fast anytime soon. When I am out in Western Kansas and the roads are wide open and flat I will routinely drive 95-100 - at least in my old 300SEL. Once that big car got going, it would really fly. I haven't tried it in the Volvo. I wonder how many RPM's that little four cylinder would be turning at that speed. I once got pulled over going 100 in Arkansas. My grandfather had died. I was racing down to the Mississippi gulf coast to meet my father. I had my ticket in hand. I told the cop why I was speeding and showed him the plane ticket to show my urgency. He didn't give me a ticket, but told me to slow down. Donald H. Snook ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Worn Diff symptoms
On Nov 18, 2008, at 10:11 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Also, what are the symptoms in a W123 turbodiesel of 1) a worn differential and 2) worn diffs typically start making noise, especially under load at certain speeds, which vary with the car. My 300SD whines pretty good, with the maximum, noise seeming to occur at around 45 mph when under load. You can be pretty sure its the diff if the noise stops immediately if you shift into neutral and cost, or float the throttle so you are neither speeding up or slowing down. I checked the diff fluid right away and replaced it with synthetic. The fluid was clean, and the refill made no difference. But the noise has not gotten any worse, and I'm just ignoring it. I undertand they can go hundreds of thousands of miles this way. Mine's been whiney at least from 255k, when I bought it, to now, with 311k on it. I'm not the least worried about it. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Scanning slides etc.
You're welcome. Keep in mind that old Nikon glass, although it may mount to a new digital body, may not communicate with it, negating many digital functions. I didn't care a whit for autofocus, image stabilization and camera-mounted controls either until I started shooting with them. Now I'm sold. Dan On Nov 15, 2008, at 8:16 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Thanks for the confirmation! I have a lot of older Nikon glass that I want to use - big reason to stay with Nikon. 35mm shift, 16 an 8mm fisheyes, 400mm Telyt in Nikon mount, 55 Micro Nikkor, 135 1f1.8 cheapy that is a nice lens, bellow, etc. On Sat, Nov 15, 2008 at 6:18 PM, Dan Weeks [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Don: THat would give you much better results than you can get from any affordable scanner. I got some slides professionally scanned, was disgusted with the results, and now digitize my own as you are thinking of doing, but much less carefully. Take a look at the Pentax K-20D, while you're at it. Very nice camera and relatively inexpensive. I do all my shooting with a K10D, and will upgrade soon. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Radios
Cool, Tom! Aren't they great? Dan On Nov 16, 2008, at 9:47 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dan, My favorite radio is a Grundig Majestic model 3028 (Grundig 3028 Hi- Fi Zauberklang in Germany) counter top radio and mine one of the ones made in Germany, not the States. It has only 3 speakers but sounds great. This one's a 1957 model, old enough to be vacuum tube and new enough to have stereo FM. Here's a picture of one like mine and I can send out a picture of mine if anyone's interested: http://www.radiomuseum.org/forumdata/users/4885/Grundig_3028_Hi-Fi_Zauberkla ng.jpg I also have a few other radios. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] k-mount lenses on digital bodies
They do work; that is you can take pictures with them. But the autofocus function doesn't work, and you can't control the aperture with the on-body controls. ALso, the focal length changes to 50% longer than it is on a 35 mm camera, as the digital sensor is smaller than the film dimensions. For all these reasons, although I have a complete suite of excellent, professional Pentax k-mount lenses, I bought two new zooms designed especially for the digital bodies, which I use exclusively: a 16-45 and a 50-200. Both excellent lenses, relatively small and light (the long zoom is actually smaller than the short one!) and quite reasonably priced. My dad, a retired optical physicist, checked 'em out before I bought 'em and pronounced them very good. He does not recommend the standard short zoom, which he says has quite a bit of, as I remember, chromatic aberration. Pentax has just brought out a new and very expensive very short zoom, which doesn't test out well either. Dan On Nov 16, 2008, at 9:47 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I have some Pentax lenses from the early 1980s, K-mount (not autofocus lenses) will they work in these newer Pentax cameras? From what I've read I gather that they would, though the website says that some unspecified features will not work. Allan -- 1983 300D ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Film Resolution Publication
JIm: I've shot for decades for major national magazines (Traditional Home, Country Home, Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, Renovation Style, etc.) and they often ran my 35mm provia images at spread size with no complaint. In fact, I asked them if they wanted 6x6, as I had the equipment, and they said well, you could, but these are just fine. Dan On Nov 14, 2008, at 9:08 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: most magazines rarely wanted something as crappy as 35mm images to begin with. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 36, Issue 115
Kodachrome was originally 25 speed only. Later they brought out 64 speed as well. Dan On Nov 15, 2008, at 10:46 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Seems like the Kodachrome slide film used to be ASA 64. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Console stereos
The best console stereos were German--Telefunken, Grundig, and many others. FANTASTIC sound, and many ways to manipulate it. Some had six and 8 speakers in the case. Their stereo tabletop radios were almost as good--veneered cases, multiple speakers, and bodacious dials that showed what frequencies to get what worldwide stations (most were FM/ AM/SW). I have two german consoles and 2 german table radios from the fifties, and that's all I listen to. They were very expensive new, and used to be findable cheap, but people have started to realize just how good they are, and prices are way up now from folks in the know. Most american sets from the sixties were junk by comparison, with a muddy, boomy sound. THe heyday of american radios was the thirties and early 40s, pre-war. Zenith made some 12-tube am sw consoles with huge speakers that will make your clothes flap in the breeze. I also have a Capehart console with a huge speaker, in a solid walnut case, that will play a rack of 20 78s, both sides sequentially, completely automatically. watching it change records is mesmerizing. Souinds very good, too--very powerful push-pull amplifier. I listen to my 78s on it, as I'm not a fan of AM radio. Dan On Nov 15, 2008, at 3:26 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: It?s a shame that no-one wants the old console stereos these days but I guess there's not a place for them in a modern household. I see console stereos for sale all the time for $35 - $45, some with very high end turntables installed. You need to plug yours in somewhere and play it. Console stereos from the early 60s were huge family purchases, not unlike the purchase of an expensive wide screen TV today. They were all expensive in the day and all have a wonderful sound. By the late 60s, most had turned into cheap junk, not because they had gone solid state but because the manufacturers had taken out so much cost. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Scanning slides vs. in-camera digital duping
Don: THat would give you much better results than you can get from any affordable scanner. I got some slides professionally scanned, was disgusted with the results, and now digitize my own as you are thinking of doing, but much less carefully. Take a look at the Pentax K-20D, while you're at it. Very nice camera and relatively inexpensive. I do all my shooting with a K10D, and will upgrade soon. Dan On Nov 15, 2008, at 4:53 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Wow - that about confirms it for me - I have started scanning my slides/negatives (probably between 20 - 30k) with a Polaroid SprintScan - WAY too slow, and not enough dynamic range. I've been thinking of using a digital SLR, my 74mm Zeiss Planar-S lens ( optimized for 1:1 copying of 35mm film), and the slide copying colorhead and shooting digital photos as if I was making dupe slides. This would be one of my justifications for purchasing a Nikon D300 or D700. ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Magazines accept film images, was Cameras
On Nov 14, 2008, at 1:11 PM, Larry wrote: do magazines still accept large format negatives for publicaion? Or has it all gone to digital? I assume you mean medium format: 6x4.5, 6x6, and 6x7. The magazines I shoot for (mostly Better Homes and Gardens titles, but others as well) prefer digital now, as the workflow is simpler and cheaper--no high-def film scanning required. I've not submitted a 6x6 chrome in years, but I'm sure they'd take 'em with no complaint if offered. They still use a lot of older pickup images that are film, so the capability to deal with it is still there. Most food photography is still shot large format film--5x7--in order to get selective focus and perspective correction--so they still deal with a lot of new film, too. Not as much medium format film as large format, though, as almost all pros now shoot medium format with digital backs. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Mercedes Digest, Vol 36, Issue 109
Were you shooting raw, .tiff, or .jpg? Raw or tiff is higher resolution than .jpg, which is a compressed file. Dan On Nov 14, 2008, at 5:46 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dan - You can probably help me with your experience shooting for magazines - I wrote an artcle for Excellence magazine (changeover to EFI) and submitted images done with my Nikon digital at its highest setting - of 1632x1224 pixels. After the editor asked for higher resolution I told him I shot at the that resolution - he didn;t respond and used the images I provided - what more could I do? Isn't that pretty high? Thx - Sincerely, Larry T (74 911, 91 300D 2.5T) ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
[MBZ] Camera Stores
On Nov 11, 2008, at 10:27 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Anyone know of a camera store they'd highly recommend, or warn others away from? I'm thinking Nikon D700 --- need to take some dramatic pictures of the MB fleet to rub in Kaleb's face -- and a daughter's wedding, etc. BH Photo Video, a mail order house in NY. I'm a professional photographer, among other things, and I order all my stuff from them. Great prices, great service. For used equipment, KEH in atlanta. Ditto. Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
Re: [MBZ] Cameras
On Nov 12, 2008, at 9:07 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I was just looking at the prices on medium format Mamiya gear the other day, and was shocked at how low it was going. The whole bag of Mamiya gear I own is worth about 10% of the new value these days. Yeah--I have a bag of Mamiya 6x6 gear, too--two bodies, 4 lenses. May never use it again, but am sure not going to sell it given what it's worth now! Dan ___ http://www.okiebenz.com For new parts see official list sponsor: http://www.buymbparts.com/ For used parts email [EMAIL PROTECTED] To Unsubscribe or change delivery options go to: http://okiebenz.com/mailman/listinfo/mercedes_okiebenz.com
