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ZUKIWORLD Discussion Forum => Technical Discussion - Performance / Modify => Topic started by: Catalinaislandliving on November 17, 2019, 07:02:59 PM

Title: Mercedes 240D engine swap
Post by: Catalinaislandliving on November 17, 2019, 07:02:59 PM

I am swapping the stock gas samurai engine for a Mercedes 240D motor. The Mercedes engine and trans are fitted and mounted. I’m getting close to firing her up and driving her down the road. I am however at a cross road and don’t know which way to go.
Here is the issue:
The drag link is about 3/4” below the engine oil pan. I would like more clearance. I’ve already installed 3” spring shackles hoping that would give me enough clearance for the oil pan. I suspect tired leaf spring. I don’t know if I should go with stock springs or try to go with different ones to get more lift. I would like to get at least another inch or more between the oil pan and drag link. I don’t want SPOA. A drop pitman arm will help, however I don’t think that will be enough. Is there a kit to drop the drag link where it bolts to either side of the wheel hubs? I’ve looked at off road aftermarket parts and I could find what I was looking for. If I have tired springs and I replace them with stock springs, what kind of lift, if any, can I expect?
I live on Catalina Island. The samurai travels at 20 mph max on mostly paved roads. No mudding, no rock crawling. Occasionally traveling on decently maintained unpaved backroads. The reason I am converting is the 1.3l blew a head gasket, I had a Mercedes engine lying around and gas is roughly $6.5/gal. I can reduce my monthly fuel bill by running waste vegetable oil from the restaurants as well as getting better fuel economy from diesel vs. gas.

Title: Re: Mercedes 240D engine swap
Post by: ebewley on November 20, 2019, 04:58:40 PM

It may be a better option to ditch the longer shackles and get a lifted spring like OME or Trail Tough. That will help with ride and probably get you enough clearance. You may have to modify your oil pan. Good luck.

-Eric

Title: Re: Mercedes 240D engine swap
Post by: Drone637 on November 21, 2019, 03:06:24 PM

You might be able to get a drop pitman arm as well to give you a bit more clearance when you switch to the lift springs.

Let us know how this works out, looks like a fun conversion!