Bottom line 90s Mercedes conversion?
February 18, 2012 - 10:20pm
Hi guys, I'm an old Greasecar kit user with my 1981 MB. Many years later, I'm tired of the car nickel and diming to death, no AC, rough riding. Looking at 90s MBs but really want to get some input on the 90s Mercedes.
1. How different / difficult is the install compared to the 80s install, which was somewhat straightforward. I'm not a mechanic and a little intimidated by advanced installs.
2. Can I use my old 80s install kit?
I get so side tracked by seasoned mechanics posting about the benefits of the 80s blocks vs. the 90s. I just need someone to bottom line a recommendation. I get that the 80s engines will last longer, but does that mean that my family will get stranded in my 90s Benz?
thanks, Sticky
February 21, 2012 - 6:23pm
#2
Thanks for the feedback! I've actually been in that radiator hose scenario in my '81. Buried the needle on the thermostat. Afterwards, it seemed to run much better. Always wondered if the high temp melted gunk inside the engine.
As I mentioned, I'm looking for something younger, perhaps with AC and quiet. As I've lurked through the years on this list, I see posts about this engine or that. Passed up some nearby GM 6.5 vehicles due to fuel pump fears. I find it hard to differentiate between (this engine doesn't perform as well as this one on diesel or ANY fuel) and (don't convert this engine unless you want to replace the fuel pump 500 miles from home) type conversations.
Any other comments on the 90s Mercedes?
February 26, 2012 - 11:52pm
#3
So to paraphrase, the issue with the 95-98s is really the space you have to work with during the install? The fuel pumps and engines do well on grease?
I've seen some VWs under the hood and I can't imagine finding room to stick my hand in there.
July 3, 2012 - 12:08am
#4
what have you done to your car ? having some difficulties too, please help me on this. i am now looking for a new parts for mine. any advices based on your experience?
July 3, 2012 - 1:40am
#5
Might suggest doing a search on the Frybrid forum. Seems I've seen a few posts on the newer MB conversions.
July 15, 2012 - 1:48am
#6
Sorry Jeff, I have not started yet. At first glance, I can tell that the plumbing is different than where I tapped into the coolant lines on my 1981MB project. I may have to post a pic of my 93 engine and ask support to help out.
Where are you finding sticking points?
August 22, 2012 - 12:17pm
#7
I have been running a 1999 E300 for a few years. the stuff fits, but its tight. It works, but does not like the grease as much as my 1987. It has trouble starting when hot, I think I am getting air in the lines - there are ALOT of lines. That said, it is a nice ride. I ended up adding an electric fuel pump to prime when i get into trouble and that seems to help.
George
August 22, 2012 - 2:46pm
#8
Hey George,
I also have a 99 E300 that has a grease kit in it. I also find difficulty starting when I've been running around in the city with the A/C on, for example. Seems to be in more trouble when driving around hot and let it sit for a couple of hours and then come back and start it again... I lose prime. I've understood that the issue is if you have the grease system working under vacuum (pull) as oppose to pressure (push). My sense is that those fittings must be really susceptible to pulling in air when hot. It's easier on my car to start it up on grease after it is has been sitting. I've wondered about adding a pump, seems like a good idea, I wonder where you placed it in the line?
Otherwise like you say, I love the ride. If you want to talk off line my email: cewyattjr [at] gmail.com. We could compare notes.
-Chuck
Holliston, MA (looking for WVO sources in the Metrowest Boston area).
March 10, 2013 - 10:41am
#9
Thanks guys, for the great comments. I've been using the 93 MB on diesel through the winter and ready to crawl under the car to convert her. Still looking for anyone with pics of their 90s MB install. Stuff just looks different than my '81 and I'm not ready to start cutting just yet. "Measure twice, cut once."
Thanks
May 4, 2013 - 12:34pm
#10
Hi sticky
If you are still looking for a newer MB, I have a 1987 with 127k already is converted. PM me if you are interested .
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1995,96.97, 98,99 E-class are a little more difficult because of the big intake manifold in the way but they are really nice cars. The 1992-1995 S-class were similar to ealier designs in that everything was in reach by the filter. the 98-99 e class was a great car with good power and most still look good and run good.
Odds are greater of being stranded in your early 80 Mercede but that model is a much stronger engine, for example if you blow a radiaor hose and take to long to stop on a 95-99 it might be very expensive to fix. On my 1985 with an iron block and heat it would take a long time without coolant to seriously mess it up.
I personally want a 2006 CDI mercedes. Just my .02 cents
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Two grease cars: First--2006 Jeep Liberty CRD it is nice and new and runs perfect on the grease with a custom spare tire tank 2nd frame mounted tank for a total grease volume of about 27 gallons, two greasecar valves, FPHE, and Injector Line heater mounted on the Common Rail. I have a spare tire cover that goes over the tank in the picture. Second Vehicle is a 2005 Mercedes E320 CDI with 3 greasecar valves, a 36 gallon custom tank in trunk, Comon Rail Heater and a Raw Power fuel pump. I use all PEX line and flare fittings with pushlocks.