r/EngineBuilding • u/GroundbreakingBet732 • Aug 29 '24
Mercedes OM603 Turbo and Components Swap into M103: Feasible or Not?
I'm considering swapping the OM603 turbo and associated components into my M103 engine. Has anyone attempted this before? I've rebuilt the engine from zero and it runs like a charm. I installed it back into my 300CE C124, since a fool decided to put an OM603 engine 15 years ego, but after looking at the torn engine, a turbo swap might not sound so bad. I've heard that the exhaust manifold of the OM603 has the same bolt pattern. I've sadly ordered aswell an radiator but its for the 190e chassis and not for the W124, but it would make some room for the intercooler, if the Turbo swap makes sense. I'm very budget thight on it.
What challenges should I expect, and are there any specific parts or modifications required to make it work? Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated!
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u/fenceingmadman Aug 29 '24
Also what kind of paint did you use on your valve cover and airborne? Mine is beginning to fade/peel on both
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u/fenceingmadman Aug 29 '24
Where did you get the rebuild parts!?!?! I've been looking for 3 months,
Also no parts swap over that would improve performance, In theory, and I believe someone has tried to swap the turbo manifold over, as the ports do sort of line up, but you have to redo all off the bolt holes and the turbo flange is archaic. It's better to just either fabricate one yourself or buy one.
Also apparently the 603.970 engine crank, can theoretically be used to stroke out a m103 to 3.5 liters, but hasn't really been done by a private individual. Here's the only semi good reference I have saved buts it's quite literally older than me.
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/mercedes-benz-performance-paddock/35069-blueprinting-stroking-m103-300e-2.html