I'll Bite Schram. Enough with the Dweb pissing match.

Here's a picture from Thursday night. It's a Stage One chassis that I changed a few things around on and re-galvanized. It's getting a 3.0L Benz turbo diesel and an NP435 mated to an Ashcroft H/R t-case. Axles are Series housings with 4:10 Toyota e-lockers and my 30-spline axles mounted on 4/2 leaf parabolics. Also getting FJ60 power steering. Engine/tranny/t-case go in Monday night I hope.

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/chassis1.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/chassis2.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/together2.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/paint4.jpg

jim

Great to see the pics over here Jim!

KAA ... hope to have similar photos to share later this Spring...

Rover (with toy inners) or salisbury rear?

Nevermind. I see they are both series axles with toy diffs and inards and stock looking NADA 6 banger drum brakes.

Sexy and strong, but I would prefer discs, at least in front, especially given the cost of brake parts for the 6 cylinder trucks.

Nice!

Very nice.

Last weekend, Afi got the rollcage started while I redid swivel seals. I expect him to arrive early tomorrow morning and wait for the coffee while watching our satellite TV :flipoff2:

I hope to get the rear hubs leak-free while he continues on the cage. It's probably gonna take both of us to wrestle the wiring into submission, then it's onto replumbing the fuel supply. If he ever makes his mind up as to what he wants for axles, I'll start on those as well. We have some plans for the dashboard and instrument panel, think buggyesque! We've decided the heater will be fixed on defrost/footwell and will only have a two-speed fan switch. This way we make some concessions to comfort while recognizing the screen demisting is probably most important. We're (OK, maybe it is just me) envisioning a sheetmetal dashboard with some nifty touches with regard to limiting distractions directly in front of the driver (the half-built baja racer at SEMA Indy gave me some ideas for this!). Coachwork is WAY down on the list.

I don't have the pics on this computer. I'll try to get some posted today or tomorrow.

Very Sexy!

New galvanising. Mmmmmm...... :grinpimp:

you know that if you bring that over here you have to build it...tear it down ...replace the axles with portals, throw the roof away and hack the frame up until the only bit thats left is the rear crossmember....and then remove that. Please use Hiem joints correctly......and for christs sake don't say anything about girl scouts. :flipoff2:

Seriously looks good Jim. How the hell do you find time to do such nice work on your own shit?

How the hell do you find time to do such nice work on your own shit?

I try to spend 2 hours a day on it during the week. Usually after work from 4:00 to 6:00. Some of the small stuff I've worked on here at home when I get time on the weekends or at night. Most of the crap from here on out will happen at work though.

If I can find the occaisonal hour or two it seems as if I have to spend it with a BFH "correcting" damage from the last ....whatever. or just trying to keep the dirt at bay. I suppose if I want to build something for myself I would have to stop driving the shit I have.

Keep the pics coming though. Inspirational.

Set the motor/tranny/T-case tonight. Steering box too....

http://seriestrek.com/109/chassis5.jpg

http://seriestrek.com/109/chassis6.jpg

Look at those fancy britches. Im excited for you. Keep it up.

-Ike

Your steering wheel's gonna be on the wrong side :flipoff2: apart from that, very nice - it's all so clean.

Your steering wheel's gonna be on the wrong side :flipoff2: apart from that, very nice - it's all so clean.

Speaking of steering, what PS box is that?

-Jeff

Also getting FJ60 power steering. jim

What engine, 5/6 cyl?
Tried to count, but not sure. I've found five injectors/diesel hardlines, but not sure if I found them all.

I don't know anything about the gearbox? Four/five speed, ratios?
I'm concerned about the large span between third and fourth I experienced when I had a series with 2,25 NA and high ratio box.
Perhaps not an issue with 300TD, but worth mentioning.

T

It's an OM617 - 5 cylinder turbo out of a 123 body Benz. 125hp.

The gearbox is an NP435 out of a Ford truck

Ratios:

1: 6.69
2: 3.34
3: 1.79
4: 1.00

It's followed by an Ashcroft high-ratio transfer case via an Ike adapter. Diffs are Toyota 4:10 e-lockers. Hopefully that engine will have enough umph to pull those gears. If not I drop down to 4:56s. I'm hoping this truck will have fairly decent highway speed and still have good off-road manners with the low first gear. Time will tell....

jim

Thought I'd show some progress....

Brakes and clutch are plumbed and bleed, power steering is all done and ready to go. Radiator support was galvanized and painted, cooling is set but a couple hoses coming today. Remote oil filter and oil cooler are mounted and plumbed. Wings are just set on there to make sure everything fits. With luck it will fire tomorrow.

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/chassis21.jpg

jim

Very nice. ALso nice to see so many builds taking place. Must be the weather:flipoff2:

Never been a fan of the 'dual headlight' look. I might be able to overlook it because the rest of the truck is so damn nice.

Never been a fan of the 'dual headlight' look.

Not my favorite either but Series II fenders are hard to find. It's kinda nice to have the extra lights in the truck and not have to have goofy fog lights hanging all over the place. This truck is also going to look exactly like my 88", except with 4 doors. Same colors, same lights and grille, etc.

So have it done in time to bring to Moab in September?

Looks nice.

So have it done in time to bring to Moab in September?

It might be done my September but by then I'll be too broke to drive it anywhere. I'll have to stay home and look at it.

Be careful with the color scheme. When we had three white Range Rovers going at the same time, it was hard to classify them. Granted, 4 doors is easier to differentiate than 2 doors, but when wifey asks which truck you're taking and you say 'the tan one', you're in trouble. ;)

I see you fender selection is function over form. In that regard I applaud you.

Not my favorite either but Series II fenders are hard to find. It's kinda nice to have the extra lights in the truck and not have to have goofy fog lights hanging all over the place. This truck is also going to look exactly like my 88", except with 4 doors. Same colors, same lights and grille, etc.

when wifey asks which truck you're taking and you say 'the tan one', you're in trouble

She's already pissed...She wanted this one pastel green.

Very clean and well thought-out build.

And I like the dual lights!:smokin:

Be careful with the color scheme. When we had three white Range Rovers going at the same time, it was hard to classify them. Granted, 4 doors is easier to differentiate than 2 doors, but when wifey asks which truck you're taking and you say 'the tan one', you're in trouble. ;)

.

Three white Range Rovers going at the same time.......thats some sort of accomplishment for sure.

Looking good Jim. Bet it will sound good too.

I'm sure the dual light setup will look alot better once the lights are installed. Looks good.:smokin:

I've seen one at a couple of the rallys with 4 headlights. Doesn't look bad at all, but not something I'd do myself. You do know that if you can find them, VW AAZ injectors are a performance upgrade for your engine don't you? I sold my 4 to a guy with an OM617 in Colo.

I didn't know that, Jim. Thanks. You can turn the pump up a bit and crank up the turbo on these too. They're 125hp stock and with a couple turns of the screw rumor says they're making 140-150. Some big injectors sound cool too. I'll have to see how it goes when I get it on the road and look into them.

jim

Looks brilliant so far :). Could have got some wings...sorry Fenders sent over from the UK?

Looks brilliant so far :). Could have got some wings...sorry Fenders sent over from the UK?

I'm sure shipping would be outrageous...

I'm sure shipping would be outrageous...

shipping isnt too bad, its the exchange rate the will kill you!

-Jeff

Ah, I traded these wings (inner and outer) for a used 4.7 Series diff. I'm cheap like that!

Wouldn't you just need the front panels? 12" x 12" x 5" bits o' birmabright shouldn't be too bad to ship.

surely you could get some pannels made up, sheet of aluminium and get the tops rolled (and outside edge??). Holes for the lights would be easy enough.

I see the wisdom in the 4-light setup. I say stick with the plan.

Running, biotches!!! :flipoff2:

Got a leaky water pump but everything else looks good. 40lbs of oil pressure warm at an idle. Not bad for a free motor.

http://www.birmabrightbrotherhood.org/images/chassis22.JPG

The 4-light look was all the rage over here not so many years ago, dare I say it's almost retro-cool now? :cool2:

Running, biotches!!! :flipoff2:

http://www.birmabrightbrotherhood.org/images/chassis22.JPG

Congrats!

Whats the brew of choice on the radiator? Inquiring minds want to know!

-Jeff

Whats the brew of choice on the radiator? Inquiring minds want to know!

Magic Hat #9

Looking good

Good job! The AAZ injectors are two stage, but aren't at all common in the states. They were only imported to Canada.

New picture. All buttoned up under the hood. Running and driving under its own power.

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/chassis25.jpg

I'm proud on ya. But nervous about your cooling system, as I always am.

JP

But nervous about your cooling system
JP

The radiator is out of the NADA 2.6 this truck started as. I figure if it kept that crappy 6-cylinder gas engine cool, it should do this alright too. We'll see. I'm not running a mechanical fan either, just an electric one up front.

jim

Thought I'd show some progress....

Brakes and clutch are plumbed and bleed, power steering is all done and ready to go. Radiator support was galvanized and painted, cooling is set but a couple hoses coming today. Remote oil filter and oil cooler are mounted and plumbed. Wings are just set on there to make sure everything fits. With luck it will fire tomorrow.

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/chassis21.jpg

jim

Looking very good. Nice clean work.

Where did you get your remote mount oil filter setup? What type of filter does it use?

I have a '56 International S120 4x4 pickup that I'm planning on swapping an OM617 into.. I may just rob it out of my DD '82 300d if the trans pukes soon :laughing: It will be mated to the stock T98 trans in the truck.

Anyways, thanks for the info and inspiration. :beer:

Where did you get your remote mount oil filter setup? What type of filter does it use?

It's a simple remote filter/oil cooler thermatic valve that takes a 1515 filter. Bought it on Ebay from some bible-thumper. Pretty nice part though, and not to spendy. It's fed from the stock filter housing that's been cut down and re-welded and had a few tricks done to the inside of it. There's a couple valves inside that housing that are nice to retain.

http://www.seriestrek.com/engine/oil%20filter%20housing%20III.jpg

If you don't care about keeping the original housing operable, I make a plate that bolts in place of the housing. Plumb up your remote filter and Bob's yer uncle.

http://www.seriestrek.com/images/block1.jpg

jim

Jim,

Very impressive! I don't imagine the 109 will be quite ready by then - although at the pace you've been going, it's possible - but are you heading up to Nova Scotia for the Moose Trophy this year ?

are you heading up to Nova Scotia for the Moose Trophy this year ?

Ah, it won't be ready this year. Hope to be done by the end of summer, though. With luck we'll be heading that way next year. The third leg of the Trans-Lab highway should be open within a year and I'd really like to get back to Newfoundland and Labrador.

I am really curious as to how you like the ratios you get with the HRTC and NP435 once it is on the road.

I am really curious as to how you like the ratios you get with the HRTC and NP435 once it is on the road.

Me too. I'm hoping for a comfortable and sustainable 70+mph on the highway with this truck. Keep in mind I'm also running Toyota e-lockers with 4.10 gears and probably no bigger than 32" tires. I should be OK. The Ford NP435 should still give me a good off-road 1st gear too. Guess time will tell. Worst-case scenario, they're a bit too tall and I pull these diffs out and put the 4.56 e-lockers from the 88" in this truck, then I rebuild these diffs with 4.88 gears for the 88". I'm hoping I won't have to do that. With the 125hp in this engine I should be just fine.

Pic from this morning. Hate the 4 headlights?

http://seriestrek.com/109/body5.jpg

jim

In low it will be sweet for sure. I was just wondering about the 2-3-4 gaps in High. With 32's I guess it will be fine. With the HRTC on mine with series III gears I would not want the 3-4 gap to be any larger.

i like the four headlight look. kind of rally-esque.

I dig the 4 lights as well. nice work.

Pic from this morning. Hate the 4 headlights?

http://seriestrek.com/109/body5.jpg

jim

I've decided that I love the 4 headlights. I can only look at one pair at a time though. If I look at all 4 at the same time I get dizzy. :flipoff2:

You know I love that truck.

I like the lights!

Is that a flat hood ornament on there, or a reflection?

Only if the outer headlight trim pieces are crome! Or Galvy reproductions LOL

http://seriestrek.com/109/body6.jpg

Awesome. I love the badge. Get the TDI badges for the back too. :laughing:

http://seriestrek.com/109/body6.jpg


Big Pimpn!

:grinpimp:

-Jeff

Nice truck. Shop's too clean :flipoff2: (No envy of a clean shop here!)

Mercedesrover! I really like your engine! Im back from Outback Challenge Morocco with my truck, and Im running same engine as you do, but mated to a RRC LT95 gearbox, this is my second build with that type of engine. Ive done some tuning of the engine, polished head, VNT turbo, custombuilt fuelpump, external balanced. I can not find how to post pics here so Im sorry I cant supply you with pics. I really like your build.
/Sam

Mercedesrover! I really like your engine! Im back from Outback Challenge Morocco with my truck, and Im running same engine as you do, but mated to a RRC LT95 gearbox, this is my second build with that type of engine. Ive done some tuning of the engine, polished head, VNT turbo, custombuilt fuelpump, external balanced. I can not find how to post pics here so Im sorry I cant supply you with pics. I really like your build.
/Sam

Hey Sam.

Email me some pictures and I'll post 'em up for you.

jim@seriestrek.com

Oh great...now there's *two* of you. I'll kick myself yet for giving away that 300TD for free. :(

Oh great...now there's *two* of you. I'll kick myself yet for giving away that 300TD for free. :(

I keep hearing rumors of Mercedes offering other oil pump and sump options that do away with the clearance concerns.

I passed on a chance at a 300TD for damned near nothing...

I keep hearing rumors of Mercedes offering other oil pump and sump options that do away with the clearance concerns.

I passed on a chance at a 300TD for damned near nothing...

The pump isn't really in the way for this application but the upper and lower pan need a little chopping and welding.

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/pan5.JPG

This was a free motor. Runs like a top. Here in New England, on a quiet night you can hear these cars rot. This is the second free motor I've gotten.

Ah, it won't be ready this year. Hope to be done by the end of summer, though. With luck we'll be heading that way next year. The third leg of the Trans-Lab highway should be open within a year and I'd really like to get back to Newfoundland and Labrador.

Moose? Are you lucky enough to actually get a tag?

Moose? Are you lucky enough to actually get a tag?

Ah, Moosetrophy, not trophy moose. It's an event, eh!

No tags needed but a double-double and a dutchie would be nice.

Uhmm

Will you make me an oilpan? I'm to lazy and busy. Pickup tube as well. What transmission would you run if you were spending more $ on this project.

Anyway, hope to see/ride this thing in person someday. I'll bet its a hooot!

JP

Uhmm Will you make me an oilpan? I'm to lazy and busy. Pickup tube as well.

In my spare time. I'll get right on it! :flipoff2:


What transmission would you run if you were spending more $ on this project.JP

More money? Holy shite, are you kidding me? This thing is already bleeding me dry. Ah, actually it's not that bad. The truck itself was free as was the motor. It may not be a cheap build but it'll be less than going out an buying some new piece of crap and will last me longer to boot.

I guess if I had the room an NV4500 might be nice. Maybe a Toyota H55F, but then I'd have to run a LC T-case. I'm sure a 5-speed would be nice but I think a bullet-proof 4-speed like the NP435 is a good trade off for an extra gear.

Anyway, hope to see/ride this thing in person someday. I'll bet its a hooot!

It'll come out west some time soon. Not next year but maybe the year after?

Work from the past couple days.

Painted up the seat box and got it in the truck. Started to run wires under the driver's seat. Everything electrical will be in this box. Battery, fuse panel, glow plug relay, headlight relays, etc., everything. Wires go out to do their job and that's it.

Get to start soldering and shrink-wrapping tomorrow.

http://seriestrek.com/109/body7.jpg

http://seriestrek.com/109/body8.jpg

http://seriestrek.com/109/body9.jpg

Can I get my oil pan and pickup tube before you start on the wiring?

Looking good, in fact too shiny, but the trail will fix that.:laughing: You should name it The Arachnid as it looks like a spider with a bunch of eyes with all those lights.

Looking good, in fact too shiny, but the trail will fix that.:laughing: You should name it The Arachnid as it looks like a spider with a bunch of eyes with all those lights.


HA the Arachnid! That is too funny- I kept thinking that setup reminded me of something but couldn't put my finger on it- looks like a jumping spider...

http://www.austmus.gov.au/spiders/images/toolkit/08a.jpg


More money? Holy shite, are you kidding me? This thing is already bleeding me dry. Ah, actually it's not that bad. The truck itself was free as was the motor.

You got a screaming deal on that galvanized chassis too that had to help! I can't believe no one else would give John Dorr $1500 for that... He tried and tried and tried to sell that thing.

That 109 keeps getting cooler and cooler Jim, nothing that rolled off the line at Sollihull was ever so nicely done.

http://seriestrek.com/109/body10.jpg
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/01/images/070125-glowing-spiders_big.jpg

Can I get my oil pan and pickup tube before you start on the wiring?

Too late! :flipoff2:

http://seriestrek.com/109/body11.jpg

:eek:

http://seriestrek.com/109/body10.jpg
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/01/images/070125-glowing-spiders_big.jpg


If you can read this, roll me over!

Chrome Eye Brows damnit!

It'll come out west some time soon. Not next year but maybe the year after?

2010? Moab, make plans :)

http://seriestrek.com/109/body10.jpg
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2007/01/images/070125-glowing-spiders_big.jpg

Alrighty, now I am sceered and will be haven nightmares :mad3:



:laughing:

I read and don't see this answered, how much oil will that modded pan hold?

2010? Moab, make plans

I read and don't see this answered, how much oil will that modded pan hold?

I'm going to try for next year. I've always wanted to go so why not? We'll see how the year plays out.

The whole system still holds 2 gallons. Probably 6 quarts in the pan and the other two out in the filter and cooler.

Man that truck looks good. Makes me feel cheap reusing the old series harness in my hybrid! Gordo

Well, all the wiring is done and the dash is in. Had it cut out of brushed stainless. Booty fab! Kinda looks like a Jeep dash, which pisses me off.

Built a front bumper too.

http://seriestrek.com/109/body14.jpg

http://seriestrek.com/109/body15.jpg

http://seriestrek.com/109/body16.jpg

If you dont like them, I know a guy that could supply you with a blank dash and a blank bumper blade

I guess if I had the room an NV4500 might be nice. Maybe a Toyota H55F, but then I'd have to run a LC T-case. I'm sure a 5-speed would be nice but I think a bullet-proof 4-speed like the NP435 is a good trade off for an extra gear.?


I was hoping to hear of a easy ZF hp22 aut trans conversion.
Any chance?

JP

Sweet rig! The Deluxe Bonnet really ties all of the headlights together! And you're only 2 hours from me by Land Rover - I'm in New Haven.

I really do like your thoughts on the wiring, I may have to do that myself. Your body parts are in much better shape than mine... What did you do about keeping the bulkhead from rusting from the inside out?

Keep up the good work, glad to see another diesel 109 in CT!

Patrick

I was hoping to hear of a easy ZF hp22 aut trans conversion.
Any chance?

JP

Child's play. :flipoff2:

Drop one of those things at my door and I'll build you an adapter.

Sweet rig! The Deluxe Bonnet really ties all of the headlights together! And you're only 2 hours from me by Land Rover - I'm in New Haven.

I really do like your thoughts on the wiring, I may have to do that myself. Your body parts are in much better shape than mine... What did you do about keeping the bulkhead from rusting from the inside out?

Keep up the good work, glad to see another diesel 109 in CT!

Patrick

The bulkhead was cut apart pretty well and sandblasted where I could reach. After it was all welded back together and painted I set it upside down and sprayed about a gallon of a product called "Rusfre" into the thing. It's still oozing out. It's a wax-based product that doesn't harden up and crack like most rustproofing.

I've been watching your truck come together too. Nice work. If you need a hand with something, I'm not that far.

Child's play. :flipoff2:

Drop one of those things at my door and I'll build you an adapter.


Don't tease me! I'll do it!

What do you need the engine and a transmission? Am I gonna get an oil pan reworked out of the deal as well?

You got a place with forklift to ship to?

I've got a hard on for this in a defender so lets make it official.

JP

The bulkhead was cut apart pretty well and sandblasted where I could reach. After it was all welded back together and painted I set it upside down and sprayed about a gallon of a product called "Rusfre" into the thing. It's still oozing out. It's a wax-based product that doesn't harden up and crack like most rustproofing.

I've been watching your truck come together too. Nice work. If you need a hand with something, I'm not that far.

Thanks! I may have a few more questions once I get to the body, so before you get the K pieces (T pieces) reattached to the tub could you take some pictures of them from the top of the tub to the floor? Mine are bad from the strike plate down and I would like to make some better replacements...

Likewise, if you need a hand I can stop up sometime as well. Keep up the great work!

Patrick

Don't tease me! I'll do it!

What do you need the engine and a transmission? Am I gonna get an oil pan reworked out of the deal as well?

You got a place with forklift to ship to?

I've got a hard on for this in a defender so lets make it official.

JP

Maybe in the fall. Let me finish this shitbox first.
Send me the engine, flywheel, tranny and torque converter and I can get it together for you. Don't take the flywheel off the engine unless you mark it first. I can do the oil pan too if you need me too.

Betcherass I've got a forklift. 1956 Ford tractor with the seat where the steering wheel used to be.

Thanks! I may have a few more questions once I get to the body, so before you get the K pieces (T pieces) reattached to the tub could you take some pictures of them from the top of the tub to the floor? Mine are bad from the strike plate down and I would like to make some better replacements...

Likewise, if you need a hand I can stop up sometime as well. Keep up the great work!

Patrick

My new T pillars should be here in a couple weeks. They're out of them right now. You're going to make your own? The price just went up on them in the past month but even still they're not that expensive. $285 my cost.

But sure, I can take all the photos you want.

Maybe in the fall. Let me finish this shitbox first.
Send me the engine, flywheel, tranny and torque converter and I can get it together for you. Don't take the flywheel off the engine unless you mark it first. I can do the oil pan too if you need me too.

Betcherass I've got a forklift. 1956 Ford tractor with the seat where the steering wheel used to be.

PM address

You have a new stalker:flipoff2:

So we are sure that Mercedes never use a version of the ZF behind the same engine block pattern of the 300TD motor. It would be nice to just use a different bellhousing and torque convertor up to the ZF. Did the six cylinder TD use a four speed trans? I really have not looked into this enough to know.

JP

You have a new stalker:flipoff2:

Man, just when I shot and buried the last one....

As far as I know Mercedes built their own trannys and didn't use a ZF in anything, but then again, I've never really looked into it. The 616/617 engines didn't use them I'm sure, but I don't really know about the 603 6-cylinder engines. You don't want to get involved with those rod-bending, head cracking bitches anyway. The diesels past the 616/617 series had a mass air flow sensor and more electronics on them and though some were pretty reliable they didn't reach the legendary status that the earlier ones did.

My new T pillars should be here in a couple weeks. They're out of them right now. You're going to make your own? The price just went up on them in the past month but even still they're not that expensive. $285 my cost.

But sure, I can take all the photos you want.

Yeah, I am going to mount shoulder harnesses to them and I want to be able to run with the top off so I was thinking of making some. I am going to have an external cage and I will make that tie in to the top of the T between the doors which will add some support to that. Of course it is an odd size so I can't just cut a profile on a rectangular tube and plate it... Your cost is $285 each, right? So $570 plus about $150 to ship since it is an odd size - $720. I am not sure yet, and the factory ones would look better until they rust out... just a thought :confused:

Yeah, I am going to mount shoulder harnesses to them and I want to be able to run with the top off ....

New T pillars are actually from a 110 and have a welded nut for shoulder harnesses on them already.

A topless 109 would be cool. I guess cutting down the rear doors and making removable door tops wouldn't be that big of a deal. You could probably take the factory T pillars, cut them at the belt and weld a couple of nuts to them and bolt them back together with a plate. This way the top half of the pillar would come off with the door tops. You could also have the B pillar part of your cage bolt-on and make two different ones. One for when the roof was on and have it bolt to the top of the pillar and a longer on when the roof was off that bolted to the pillar at the belt.

This zombie stalker just doesn't die!:grinpimp:

I agree to tread away from the later engine. But if they share the same block pattern and use a version of our transmission we are golden. Look under your rugs to find the answer if you do not mind.

Brainsucker out

Man, just when I shot and buried the last one....

As far as I know Mercedes built their own trannys and didn't use a ZF in anything, but then again, I've never really looked into it. The 616/617 engines didn't use them I'm sure, but I don't really know about the 603 6-cylinder engines. You don't want to get involved with those rod-bending, head cracking bitches anyway. The diesels past the 616/617 series had a mass air flow sensor and more electronics on them and though some were pretty reliable they didn't reach the legendary status that the earlier ones did.

As far as I know Mercedes built their own trannys and didn't use a ZF in anything, but then again, I've never really looked into it.

I don't know about the diesels, but when I was working parts for the mainly M-B shop, I sold a lot of tranny filters and pan gaskets that were ZF parts. The gaskets were identical in some applications to the ones used on the Rovers. The filters did not have provision for the extended pick-up tubes as seen on Rover ZFs.

I thought for sure that I saw a ZF behind a fairly recent vintage diesel M-B, but that may have been one of them with the MAF and electrickery.

The only clients we had with the older 300 engines either did most of their own work and on'y brought them to the shop when they were in over their head or they were just buying parts for old ragged out POS cars that they all wanted to sell me for a king's ransom. When they get 300K miles on them, they can smoke, shake, rattle and roll pretty good!

Just got off the phone with a local tranny shop that I've used in the past. As far as he knows, Benz never used a ZF. Funny that they didn't...

Benz tranny:

http://i16.ebayimg.com/07/i/000/f4/e3/1983_1.JPG

HP22:

http://www.atb-berlin.com/images/zf4hp24_bmw_detail.jpg

Would they call it a ZF if it was made to Mercedes specs? I had a transmission parts suppier tell me the same thing. No ZF for Mercedes byt their books. But junkyard parts scrambles lead me to believe different. We'll see I guess.

Is there a retrofit board that might recognize some pictures of our transmission? Somewhere you have been trolling for information. Wonder if the guy who posted his defender with Merc motor might have a clue.

Is there a retrofit board that might recognize some pictures of our transmission? Somewhere you have been trolling for information. Wonder if the guy who posted his defender with Merc motor might have a clue.

NAPA has a poster with transmission pan gasket diagrams and part numbers.

Might be the hint one needs to resolve the issue.

I've been wrong before, if I'm wrong on this one, I'll apologize now and go back to watching quietly from the corner.

You're SOL, Pendy. From the tranny shop to the salvage yard mechanical interchange to the dealer who's worked for Benz for 20 years. All say Mercedes has always built their own transmission.

Sorry, brother. It couldn't have been that easy.

Man up and put a manual in that Defender. Real trucks have three pedals. :flipoff2:

That ZF 4PH22 was used also used in Alfa Romeo, Volvo, BMW, Audi, Jaguar, Lincoln, Peugeot, etc.

Wonder if one was used behind a Volvo or BMW diesel. Hmmmm.......

You're SOL, Pendy. ... Real trucks have three pedals. :flipoff2:

Oh, I'm sure he is going to have 3 pedals, two of them would be brakes :grinpimp:

Actually to use an auto, twin stick transfer case (take the back end out of drive), and a second brake pedal where the clutch goes attached to a secondary rear braking system would make for great front digs.

I bet that's what Pendy's doing!!!

Although, you could just use the parking brake instead....

Man up and put a manual in that Defender. Real trucks have three pedals. :flipoff2:

Real trucks don't have 5 cylinders!! :flipoff2::laughing:

That ZF 4PH22 was used also used in Alfa Romeo, Volvo, BMW, Audi, Jaguar, Lincoln, Peugeot, etc.

Wonder if one was used behind a Volvo or BMW diesel. Hmmmm.......

You beat me to it. I just got back from learning the same thing.

Sorry fellas. I'm back to the corner to watch quietly.

Oh, the 4HP22 was also used by Ford from '86-'94.

Chrysler used a 4HP18 also.

That ZF 4PH22 was used also used in Alfa Romeo, Volvo, BMW, Audi, Jaguar, Lincoln, Peugeot, etc.

Wonder if one was used behind a Volvo or BMW diesel. Hmmmm.......

Already put it behind the BMW engine and Volvo/Audi heaps. Me want Merc lump with easy auto. T-chain, 3.0 liter and other benefits.

I might try manual. Building a truck, truck next. With useable bed for hauling ass and assundries.

JP

I don't know why, but I always thought the auto behind my 617 was a zf. If I am forced, I will crawl under it this weekend and look for some markings:

what should I be looking for and where on the tranny would it be?

It took me almost two years to find a 240 manual bellhousing but in the back of my mind I keep thinking 'what would the auto be like'?

It's disheartening to start a project before someone (Jim), then watch him barrel through each system of the truck while you have still have a pile of parts, a rusty truck and a 'donor' car in the backyard. Hey, at least it's NH - everyone has junk cars in their yard!

I don't know why, but I always thought the auto behind my 617 was a zf. If I am forced, I will crawl under it this weekend and look for some markings

It took me almost two years to find a 240 manual bellhousing

It's disheartening to start a project before someone (Jim), then watch him barrel through each system of the truck while you have still have a pile of parts, a rusty truck and a 'donor' car in the backyard. Hey, at least it's NH - everyone has junk cars in their yard!

Do it. You should find a RT-722.315, RT-7222.188A or an RT-722.303 depending on the year and the model

I have two brand new ones, still in the boxes sitting under my bench. :D

Get to work on that rig!!!

what should I be looking for and where on the tranny would it be?



It's disheartening to start a project before someone (Jim), then watch him barrel through each system of the truck while you have still have a pile of parts, a rusty truck and a 'donor' car in the backyard. Hey, at least it's NH - everyone has junk cars in their yard!

There will be a tag on the side of the transmission, directly aft of the shift lever. The tag will state model number. Lemme go snap a pic...

As for project stasis, have heart. I finally got started on building an engine I've only been collecting parts for almost four years.

The pics are of an electronically controlled 4HP-22, probably not something you'd want to use behind a diesel if the goal is to avoid electrickery, but the physical layout of the tag is the same to the best of my knowledge for all ZFs.

And before anybody says anything (Slade!) I'm an engineer, not a photographer! However, I might be getting a DSLR after I finish the DII build...

Mercedes seems to be tight lipped about their stuff. A friend of mine has a an ML with a Borg-Warner tcase, that no one including BW listed. He ended up sourcing a chain set form some dodge application for $75 rather than the $450 the dealer wanted.

The point is, it wouldn't surprise me if they use 'proprietary' ZF units

-Jeff

The point is, it wouldn't surprise me if they use 'proprietary' ZF units

-Jeff

ZF is also very tight lipped about their stuff. I have a print of a bearing from INA that has "Property of ZF -proprietary, confidential, yadda, yadda, yadda" stamped all over it.

Some progress in the past few days....

Got the front bumper done and ready for galvy. No winch on this truck...Not yet anyway. It'll go out along with the sliders when I get those built. Still waiting for the T-pillars before I can do those.

Also got the dash buttoned up and painted and installed all the tunnel, floor and seat box panels. Just about dead in the water until the pillars show up.

http://seriestrek.com/109/body17.jpg

http://seriestrek.com/109/body18.jpg

I think I just drooled a little on my shirt.

-Jeff

what is with the tin foil in the floor pans?:flipoff2:

T pillars painted and on.

Also countersunk the door hinges and had them plated. With luck they won't rust as they usually do.

http://seriestrek.com/109/body19.jpg

http://seriestrek.com/109/body20.jpg

Looking great!!!

Makes me want to go and rescue the 88" IIA I saw in a barn!

Great writeup on Jim's 88 in the latest issue of Overland Journal, my favorite magazine. Expedition Exchange sells it online.

Craig

And before anybody says anything (Slade!) I'm an engineer, not a photographer! However, I might be getting a DSLR after I finish the DII build...

That's pretty funny. Before the out-of-focus shots I was saying to myself that I wished my shots of my builds looked as good as yours did.

One suggestion for shooting indoors in that low light...get a tripod and stop the lens down a bit. Those two things will improve any photography a gazillion percent. Otherwise, I have no complaints about your photos. They make me smile when I see the project.

Oh, the out-of-focus shots might be pushing the cameras ability to focus close, so I won't blame you for that.

Getting a good DSLR is a pretty big commitment. Lots of good threads on ExPo about it.

I'm droolin' on your truck...you might have to wipe it off.

Any progress or have you been wrenching as hard as I have???

Drooling is a understatement. Awesome Jim. Can u make one for me

Any progress or have you been wrenching as hard as I have???

Still at it.....

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/body29.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/body31.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/body35.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/body33.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/body37.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/body39.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/body40.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/body41.jpg

Can u make one for me

Sure. How 'bout two? :flipoff2:

I'll start in about 10 years....I can only handle one of these every 10 years.

WOW! Looks great! :grinpimp:

I will definitely have to come up and get some pointers when it gets time to do some body work next year some time!

Done!

'67 NADA 109
Mercedes 617 turbo diesel
NP435 4-speed
Ashcroft high-ratio transfer case
Toyota e-lockers with 4.88 gears in Rover housings
Seriestrek 30-spline axles
Power steering

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/done1.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/done2.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/done3.jpg

http://www.seriestrek.com/109/done4.jpg

Awesome Jim...just awesome...

Congrats!

I hope to see it at Guy Fawkes weekend?

Thanks, all.

Yes, Kevin, I'll be there. You going too?