The Mercedes-Benz OM606.910 is a 3,000 cc, inline-six, naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2005. It features indirect injection via a pre-chamber system and a robust SOHC valvetrain with mechanical valve adjustment. Designed for durability and smooth operation, it delivered 70 kW (95 PS) and 230 Nm of torque, offering steady performance in commercial and utility applications.
Fitted to models such as the T1 710D van and SK 814 truck, the OM606.910 was engineered for long-distance reliability and low maintenance in heavy-duty configurations. Emissions compliance was achieved through optimized combustion tuning and an oxidation catalyst, meeting Euro 2 standards as required by EU Directive 94/12/EC during its production window.
One documented concern is cylinder head cracking near the exhaust manifold, particularly under sustained high-load operation. This issue, referenced in Mercedes-Benz Service Information Bulletin 07 06 99, is typically associated with localized overheating and inadequate coolant system maintenance. Later production runs incorporated revised casting tolerances, and field inspections were recommended for units with repeated thermal stress events.
Production years 1998–2005 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6781).
The Mercedes-Benz OM606.910 is a 3,000 cc inline-six diesel engine engineered for commercial and utility vehicles (1998–2005). It combines indirect injection with a naturally aspirated SOHC valvetrain to deliver dependable power delivery and mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes longevity and serviceability over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,000 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 70 kW (95 PS) | |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 2,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch inline injection pump, indirect injection (pre-chamber) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft (SOHC) | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40, ACEA B3/B4 | |
| Dry weight | 225 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable, linear power delivery ideal for steady-load commercial use but requires higher engine speeds for load carrying. SAE 15W-40 oil meeting ACEA B3/B4 specifications is essential to maintain lubrication integrity in high-load, low-speed operations. Regular valve clearance checks (every 30,000 km) are critical due to mechanical tappets. The pre-chamber injection system is sensitive to fuel quality; use of non-compliant diesel can lead to injector coking and misfires. Cylinder head inspections are advised if overheating events occur, as per SIB 07 06 99. Cooling system maintenance is paramount to prevent thermal stress fractures.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 15W-40, ACEA B3/B4 specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07 06 99). Compatible with MB 229.1 where applicable.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all models (1998–2005) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6781).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output unchanged across production run (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1998).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M104-606, SIB 07 06 99
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6781)
EU Directive 94/12/EC - Emissions for Light-Duty Vehicles
The Mercedes-Benz OM606.910 was used across Mercedes-Benz's T1/SK platforms with longitudinal mounting and utilised in both commercial and heavy-duty derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced oil pans in SK truck applications and modified intake manifolds in T1 vans-and from 2000 the updated SK models adopted revised cooling configurations, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (Mercedes-Benz TIS M104-606). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('9' for OM606 series). Pre-2000 units have a cast iron exhaust manifold; post-2000 variants may feature a steel unit. Critical differentiation from OM606.912: OM606.910 lacks turbocharging and has a distinct injection pump calibration. Service parts require chassis number verification—cylinder heads from pre-2000 builds are not interchangeable with later units due to revised coolant passages per SIB 07 06 99.
The OM606.910's primary reliability risk is cylinder head cracking under thermal stress, with elevated incidence in commercial-use vehicles with poor coolant maintenance. Internal Mercedes quality reports from 2000 noted recurring head failures in SK trucks operating in stop-start conditions, while VCA MOT data links a significant portion of pre-2005 diesel failures to cooling system neglect. Extended idling and infrequent coolant changes increase thermal cycling stress, making regular system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1998-2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000-2007). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM606910.
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MERCEDES-BENZ Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
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VCA Certification Portal
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