Started off really promising. 1975 230, not a real popular model but really straight, no rust, bone stock, overall decent looking and really workable condition. Once I got into the engine it went downhill.

Problem is the mechanicals. It needs a cam, rockers, timing chain & related parts and a valve job The cam I tracked down but it's hard to find parts for the car. Guess there weren't enough of them to warrant any aftermarket.

The only options I see would be to cut and run now, part out the car and recover some of what I've spent. Other option would be a transplant.

Just don't know how else to keep this car on the road without putting way too much money into it. Are there alternatives I don't know about like other MB engines that would swap with easier parts availability?

I think you'll need to find a replacement donor engine versus a complete rebuild of the current one - you could probably use a 190 (I think it might be the same block as the 230) you'll lose a little power (with not much to lose) but they were more plentiful....maybe someone will chime in on the interchangeability. (you could also consider a 240D driveline swap - plentiful enough)

John in San Antonio

Best of Luck in saving it!

It was the 200 which shared the block with the 230 - NOT the 190 motor - now I mean the gas version - not 200D - of the M102 motor. There was a station wagon version of the 230TE - in fact I remember one being sold on Craigslist in San Antonio very recently which was a grey market import.

John

I just bought a 240D but really don't want to go diesel with the 230. If anything I'd rather do some fabrication and step up in HP. I believe the 230.4 was rated at about 115 HP. Something around 150 would be nice.

I've done engine swaps on several US cars. It takes time and requires a lot of thought to get all the accessories from the original powerplant to bolt up and function. AC was the worst but something I wouldn't like to live without when it's 105 degrees outside.

The 240D I picked up is nice enough to warrant fixing as well. A paint job and some carpet would do wonders for it. Rest of the interior is good. It needs new bottom end bearings but that won't take long to do.

Have you looked into getting a donk out of a 280 or something? There are plenty of 280's hear in OZ. I don't know much about the petrol motors as I only deal in diesel.
I am currently into a big project also. I will be rebuilding a 1980 300TD from front to back. The motor is already half done and I am just waiting for some gaskets. Mine has no rust just a couple of dints from shopping trolleys. Just gotta get the A/C working.
Cheers.

i had a 69 230 , had 250 transplanted, was nothing but headaches, spent 4k back in 1981 on top/bottom of engine, car overheaded and destroyed the head again.

try adsitco.com, i find them to have alot of part and complete engines for about what i spent 20 plus years ago. been buying alot part s from them for my 77 450sl..

also try racepages.com. found them also to have / cheaper parts.

good luck ! dont give up.