Simple DIY W123 maintenance

[Grey Ghost]

I'll be the first to admit that I am NOT mechanically-inclined (I rely on a good independent German car shop for that). I do like to stay on top of simple items, however. For me, that's things like keeping the antenna mast lubricated, checking for proper tire pressures, changing wiper blades, applying Rain-X to the windows, adding fuel supplements, etc.

What are some other simple DIY chores that I should be mindful of? For instance, I know the car was designed with several weepholes to channel rain to the ground...where are they, and what's the best way to ensure they're clear?

[Robby Ackerman]

Changing fuel filters, the air filter, oil changes and even the valve adjustment, there are only ten, and it takes about one hour, are easy DIY jobs.

If you have an '83 300 D with the triple-K turbo it is an easy job to adjust the boost from 6 psi up to about 12 psi and you will knock two seconds off your 0 to 50 mph time.

[Grey Ghost]

thanks, Robby. Can you recommend a good maintenance book for me to read?

re: the PSI boost. does this have any negative effect on engine or turbocharger longevity?

[Robby Ackerman]

Haynes has an inexpensive book on 123 Diesels.

There is no problem with longevity and other wear issues as long as you keep the boost below 14 lbs or so. It may have been set at 6 psi for fuel economy or emissions. Around '85 or '86 they increased the boost to .9 A (13 lbs).

I'd say the engine can handle 30 psi but the cooling system can't take the heat this would generate.

[Tom Hanson]

Maybe 25 psi and an intercooler would do the trick ??

[Robby Ackerman]

Hey, now that is an idea worth pursuing!