Hello all...

I'm new to this particular forum and apologize for asking such a newbie question, but I have limited internet access and need answers quick. I tried searching but was having trouble finding what I needed...

I'm looking at a diesel conversion in my Rover using the OM617 turbo model (.951/952?). What should I look for/inspect when buying a used motor? Any big red flags to look out for? I got the impression that compression would say a lot about the condition of the motor, but in searching this forum it seems that some people seem to disagree. Anyway, what are good compression numbers. worn-out vs. new/rebuilt condition compression? I found a used motor, but the seller is claiming 450 on all five cylinders... seems a little high.

Thanks so much for any help. It is much appreciated!

-Ethan M
Portland, OR
ewmakaro@hotmail.com

Rover...what kind of Rover?

The engines are nearly bullit proof.
The turbo's too for the most part.

450 psi sound very good on a used motor but not out of the way...they'd usually be 350 or so....depends how the compression reading was taken....personally I use a leak down test....it does not rely on an altitude adjustment.

The block and head has a very good reputation..the weakest link..if you pardon the pun...is the timing chain, and next is the vacuum pump.

Rover ?

Oh yeah...welcome to the errrr, Rover forum ?




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__________________
[http://languageandgrammar.com/2008/01/14/youve-got-problems-not-issues/ ]

"A liberal is someone who feels they owe a great debt to their fellow man, which debt he proposes to pay off with your money."

Have him do the test in front of you. Is the engine running? Miles are known? Lots of oil on the engine itself? can the car it's in be driven? Find someone near you with the same engine and listen to theirs first...good luck

450 sounds high. i would be sceptical about that claim.

tom w

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.

Yeah, it had 450psi 23 years ago when it was new.

Did he mean 450 divided by 5?

__________________
1977 300d 70k--sold 08
1985 300TD 185k+
1984 307d 126k--sold 8/03
1985 409d 65k--sold 06
1984 300SD 315k--daughter's car
1979 300SD 122k--sold 2/11
1999 Fuso FG Expedition Camper
1993 GMC Sierra 6.5 TD 4x4
1982 Bluebird Wanderlodge CAT 3208--Sold 2/13

Did somebody say ROVER?

I LOVE old Rovers!!!

Im gonna guess its a P6 series, SD1, or maybe even an 800 series? What type of Rover DO you have?

I have always wanted to drop a 617.952 into a Rover, NSU Ro80, Peugeot 504 & 604, etc etc etc... basically any car that appeals to me for its design more so than its power plant.

A woman down the street from me still owns her sky blue Rover/Sterling 827Sli 4 door hatch back and it has been kept PRISTINE. She and her husband bought a pair of them new, he sold his sedan and she held onto her hatch. Its garaged, detailed, and driven almost every day. It has 16" BBS wheels to boot. It may technically be an Acura Legend, but I think it is far more stylish. Neat cars indeed, and quite rare anymore in any model form.

Sounds like a neat project!

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Nate

1995 E420
1992 BMW 525i
1984 300D Turbo sold
1993 Volvo 244 sold
1995 Volvo 944T R.I.P!


"The details are not details. They make the product."
-Charles Eames

www.cbs.nu

Finally got around to checking the post... THANKS GUYS! This is exactly the information I was looking for. I'm curious now as to how or why the seller of that motor (which I believe is already pulled from the vehicle) managed to get a comp of 450.

Thanks to you guys I have some good info to go with now.

I was looking for a used engine in the Portland area a few months ago and had good luck posing a wanted ad on craigslist in the auto parts section.

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1979 240D- 316K miles - VGT Turbo, Intercooler, Stick Shift, Many Other Mods - Daily Driver

1982 300SD - 232K miles - Wife's Daily Driver

1986 560SL - Wife's red speed machine

Thanks for the suggestion, bgkast. I might do that.