Thought I'd start my very own OM603 swap thread. I'm not new to engine swaps, I've completed an OM617 into my old 460, also converted a lot of Vanagon's to Subaru and also TDI power. This conversion seems fairly straight forward since it uses factory parts and the engines mate without an adapter.
Started off by picking up an 87 300D with 155k, it recently had it's turbo and exhaust replaced by the dealer. Got it cheap due to being involved in a side swipe hit and run. Found it on the craig list.
I was able to drive the 300D a little so I know what I'm getting.
So I'm putting this sweet engine into my 92 300GE.
Part collecting started with motor mounts, A/C bracket, and the front additional serpentine belt idler from Guido. ( Thanks Guido ). I also decided to upgrade the water pump, so I picked that up from 4x4 club ( thanks Vlad )
Here's the first challenge: The thermostat housing has an additional bleeder hole that does not correspond to my 603 block. I think I'm going to just weld it shut unless I hear different from anyone here. It's wide open. Pics of the original and the new housing side by side:
front pic shows the bleeder hole...
I'm wondering if the 350 block is different?