603 or a newer 617?

[martureo]

I'm making the decision next week.

My 84 300TD has a few major engine problems. I'm sending the head out this week to have it magafluxed and the valves pressure tested.

I've been in the market for a 617 short block (in case the head is good) but have been rather tempted by a good 603+trans offer in the mean time.

It's still up in the air as I've got a good 617 that's been offered to me.

What's your opinion?

[sixto]

What is your wrenching ability? Heck, what is your welding ability?

Sixto
83 300SD

[Mölyapina]

I voted for the 617 because it's easier and you have one that you can grab. I'm not convinced that the economy difference would be worth it, considering that the W124 is much more aerodynamic than the W123.

[JB3]

617 is plug and play, so id go that way for simplicity unless you are more interested in the project side of it.

Depends on the goal. If the primary goal is running driving car soonest, id go 617. If goal is cool project, 603.

Realistically you need a both heading. If you can get both for cheap, both is the way i might go

[vstech]

I can't imagine putting in a 603... and radiator space is a concern. You'd need a taller diff to gain any efficiency from the combo.

[martureo]

Originally Posted by sixto

What is your wrenching ability? Heck, what is your welding ability?

Sixto
83 300SD

I've fully rebuilt the front and rear suspension on this wagon. And I rebuild steering boxes. And I just swapped out a 617 from someone else's car this week.

I don't think I'd need to weld much for the 603. I've been in contact with a few Scandanavian folks who have done it successfully multiple times.

[martureo]

Originally Posted by JB3

617 is plug and play, so id go that way for simplicity unless you are more interested in the project side of it.

Depends on the goal. If the primary goal is running driving car soonest, id go 617. If goal is cool project, 603.

Realistically you need a both heading. If you can get both for cheap, both is the way i might go

Yeah, both motors are relatively cheap. And the 603 comes with rebuilt head and a low mileage transmission.

[martureo]

Originally Posted by vstech

I can't imagine putting in a 603... and radiator space is a concern. You'd need a taller diff to gain any efficiency from the combo.

It'll fit, and even with the w124 style mounts.

Yeah, I'd have to change the diff. Probably to a 2.88 if I could find one.

[leathermang]

I would clearly vote for the 617 ..... who in the world trusts 'Scandanavian folks' over this forum ? After a big project is over people often forget about the little stuff which took huge effort to overcome.... and if they had been advised not to try a particular project ' might' even leave off how hard it was... just human nature.....
The key word mentioned above is ' PLUG AND PLAY'..... the value of that ' condition' can not be over estimated.

Aren't the 603 famous for head or head gasket problems ? I would sure investigate that well first....

[JB3]

Originally Posted by leathermang

who in the world trusts 'Scandanavian folks' over this forum ?

Because many have done swaps and documented them, complete with excellent info and impressive fabrication skills.

[leathermang]

Originally Posted by JB3

Because many have done swaps and documented them, complete with excellent info and impressive fabrication skills.

YOU ARE THE ONE THAT USED THE CORRECT DESCRIPTION ' PLUG AND PLAY'.....

Are you now suggesting the 603 is the better choice ?

AND sometimes people say things which are meant to be humorous .... and people miss it... Are you of Scandanavian descent ?

[Mölyapina]

Originally Posted by leathermang

YOU ARE THE ONE THAT USED THE CORRECT DESCRIPTION ' PLUG AND PLAY'.....

Are you now suggesting the 603 is the better choice ?

AND sometimes people say things which are meant to be humorous .... and people miss it... Are you of Scandanavian descent ?

[Mölyapina]

Oh, I missed that you've had a 603 offered to you. If you think that it wouldn't be too much to upgrade to 603, then I would definitely go that route. Max street cred baby.

[leathermang]

That is being SILLY acting like you can HEAR CAPS yelling at you...
There are limited ways of accenting things in print.... and CAPS are perfectly legit....
Lets see if he answers the question... does he NOW suggest the 603 instead of the 617.

[JB3]

Originally Posted by leathermang

YOU ARE THE ONE THAT USED THE CORRECT DESCRIPTION ' PLUG AND PLAY'.....

Are you now suggesting the 603 is the better choice ?

AND sometimes people say things which are meant to be humorous .... and people miss it... Are you of Scandanavian descent ?

Lets not have a coronary there leathermang.
I actually suggested "both" if you read my comment, which apparently you skimmed. Martureo is more than capable of installing a 603 if he was going to go the project route, secondly hes in contact with those that have done the swap. Are you?

Lets calm down and untwist our panties please. Its really not that big a deal.