[W126 Coupe] Engine swap - an opinion

[Mister McGoo]

Barry;
 
A couple of comments....
 
I assume that you are in Australia and the '83 380SEC is a RHD model.  Check the tire inflation instructions inside the fuel filler door for language.  I suspect it is a Japanese model as many were exported to Australia. (RHD to Australia, LHD to Canada)
 
If so, they often have some electrical and electronic differences with no documentation available.  This may not be an issue while the vehicle is stock, but ugly problems may appear once you change to a "domestic" version engine/electronics. You say it does not have sunroof or cruise... does it have air condition and climate control, and does it have the same emission controls as a 380 engine standard in Australia?  (Japan does have different emission standards than North America.)  
 
If you must have the power of the 500 engine, by far the easiest way to achieve it is to sell the 380SEC and buy a 500SEC (or 560SEC for that matter, it's your choice then... with no "compatibility" problems).  Just wait for a good one to come available and, in the meantime, enjoy your 380. 
 
The engine transplant rarely is as easy as it first appears, often has unforeseen (and expensive) problems, and the results are rarely as good as you anticipate.  Plus doing all that work with all the associated expense usually ends up depreciating the value of the car.  Few people want it because nobody knows for sure what you changed.  Benz garages don't want to touch it.  
 
Just my opinion......
 
-Bellamy
 
 


From: barryllewellyn at hotmail.comTo: mbcoupes at mbcoupes.comDate: Mon, 4 Dec 2006 10:08:16 +1000Subject: [W126 Coupe] (no subject)





Hi Rick, My 380SEC is a 1985 model.Above average condition,no cruise or sunroof,Has abs & headlight wipers.May have been delivered fom Hong Kong or UK. As I previously mentioned the motor is in fine order but sometimes 500 motors can be available in average condition sedans at a bargain price so I consider the options of extra power.I would most likely recondition the motor before fitment. I don't think there is any simple way to get more power from a 380?
Thanks....Barry AUS

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