W140 S Class Diesel conversion, possible?

[Sudesh]

I'm just wondering has anyone ever converted the W140 S-class model to diesel with say the 300D engine or other merc diesel engine. I know they made the W140 in diesel but only as LHD and it was an S350 so I'm guessing 3.5 TD engine.

 

[Dieselman]

If doing this don't use a 3.5 litre engine as they always fail due to weak conrods.
There was a 300sd as well so that would be the engine to use. For simplicity either obtain a complete donor W210 E300 turbo or use and earlier car so the CAN system isn't required.

 

[A210AMG]

Would LPG not be easier?

 

[Sudesh]

Yeah though about LPG but not really a fan of whole LPG thing, plus I'm based in N.I so there isnt as many station around and I also have my own Diesel tank at home.

Its just an idea I have and wondered what would be involved in doing a conversion other than the engine. Is it best to go with a TD engine rather than the standard 300D engine. I was thinking along the lines of the W124 engine.

 

[Dieselman]

Get a W124 300TD multivalve engine from Europe and uprate the intercooler and fuelling, that should see an easy 200+ Bhp.

 

[Sudesh]

Apart from the engine is there any other modifications needed? What about the gearbox, ECU fuel tank etc.

Is there particular W140 model best suited like S280/300/420/500 etc

 

[Dieselman]

If possible obtain all the running gear from a 300Turbo, alternatively check what torque loading the W140 gearbox can take and the final drive ratios.

You will need to change the ECU, dashboard clocks, etc.

 

[bolide]

Ask around the cab companies. Evidently there was someone doing a roaring trade in converting petrol W124 Mercedes to diesel for taxi drivers

Nick Froome
www.w124.co.uk

 

[74merc]

There are a couple of guys in Dublin who convert to diesel engines. I know of an S600 with a diesel engine and have seen a few W126 diesel taxis. Try searching on Rory's Mercedes or Waterfall Motor Company. Both are in North Dublin.

 

[alanuk400]

Eddie Torrens in Ballymoney used to do conversions, if he is still operating.

Alan