QuestionI have a 1980 300SD I want to ship to Europe from the US. I live in Europe. My German mechanic tells me that a diesel must have a catalytic converter to meet the new European emission code. The mechanic at my US storage site states that this diesel does not, nor should it have a catalytic converter. Who's right?
Answer Both are correct.
The US version does not come with a catalyst.
But in Europe you will need one. Count on what the mechanic in the country that you are taking that car to. He knows very well what the emission standards are in that country.
2 options have it Federalized there or sell the car here and purchase one there.
In my experence which I am now going through it will be cheaper to leave that vehicle here.
I now have in my repair shop a 2001 CLK320 Convertible that a gentleman brought over from Italy. He spent over 16,000 dollars to have it completly Federalized in Baltimore Maryland and it was not done correctly. Fuel Gauge did not work . I got it working and when the car has 1/2 tank it vapor locks. Evaporation system not done correctly 1/2 Euro 1/2 US and the rest bypassed.
I hope that this helps you .
Check with the mechanic in Europe and he can let you know it there is a kit to convert over and if it is worth it
Best of Luck
Ralph
MIAMI AUTO HELP INC
