The Mercedes-Benz OM 616.917 is a 2,399 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1977 and 1985. It formed part of the robust OM 616 series, widely used across Mercedes-Benz's passenger and light commercial vehicles. This engine features indirect injection via a pre-combustion chamber, OHV valvetrain with pushrods, and a Bosch inline fuel injection pump. It delivered 50 kW (68 PS) at 4,200 rpm and 130 Nm of torque at 2,400 rpm, prioritizing durability and fuel economy over high performance.
Fitted primarily to the W123 240D and 300D models, the OM 616.917 was engineered for long service life and dependable operation under varied conditions. Its driving character emphasized smooth, low-revving torque delivery ideal for highway cruising and commercial use. Emissions control was rudimentary by modern standards, relying solely on precise mechanical fuel metering and combustion tuning. The engine met early European emissions guidelines, though formal Euro standards were not introduced until the 1990s.
One documented service update involves the cylinder head gasket material and torque sequence, addressed in Mercedes-Benz Technical Service Bulletin 07-78-01. Early gasket designs were prone to failure under sustained load or improper installation, leading to coolant loss or combustion leakage. From 1980, an improved multi-layer steel (MLS) gasket and revised tightening procedure were implemented to enhance sealing reliability across the OM 616 range.
Production years 1977–1985 meet pre-Euro emissions guidelines under ECE Regulation 13/02. No Euro standard applies (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Mercedes-Benz OM 616.917 is a 2,399 cc inline-four diesel engine engineered for mid-size sedans and wagons (1977–1985). It combines indirect injection with a robust OHV valvetrain to deliver reliable, low-stress operation. Designed to meet pre-Euro emissions requirements, it emphasizes mechanical simplicity and longevity over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,399 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, OHV, 8-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 92.0 mm | |
| Power output | 50 kW (68 PS) @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 2,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch inline mechanical injection pump (Type M | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (ECE R13/02) | |
| Compression ratio | 22.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshaft | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (API CD or equivalent) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The naturally aspirated design provides predictable, linear power delivery ideal for steady cruising but lacks low-end torque for aggressive driving. Regular oil changes every 10,000 km are essential to maintain the longevity of the gear-driven valvetrain and main bearings. SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 oil meeting API CD specifications is required to handle soot loading and maintain viscosity under load. The Bosch inline injection pump demands clean diesel fuel; water contamination can lead to pump failure. Cylinder head gasket integrity depends on correct torque sequencing per Mercedes-Benz SIB 07-78-01. Cooling system maintenance is critical due to the high compression ratio and potential for localized hot spots.
Oil Specs: Requires API CD or equivalent specification (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07-78-01). Supersedes earlier MB 229.0 oil standards.
Emissions: Pre-Euro compliance under ECE Regulation 13/02 applies to all models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No formal Euro standard was in place.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across all markets (Mercedes-Benz Group PT-1977).
Mercedes-Benz Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B13570, B14205, SIB 07-78-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585:1976 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz OM 616.917 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W123 platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-longer oil pan in wagon variants and revised exhaust manifolds in North American models-and from 1980 the updated cylinder head gasket and torque procedure per SIB 07-78-01, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Mercedes-Benz TIS B13800). The 6th and 7th digits of the VIN indicate engine type ('616' for OM 616 series). Pre-1980 models use a single-layer head gasket with a specific torque pattern; post-1980 units use a multi-layer steel (MLS) gasket with revised sequence. Critical differentiation from turbo variants: OM 616.917 has no turbocharger and uses a Bosch Type M inline injection pump. Service parts require model year verification - head gaskets and intake manifolds for pre-1980 models are not interchangeable with later units due to sealing surface updates (Mercedes-Benz SIB 07-78-01).
The OM 616.917's primary reliability risk is cylinder head gasket failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips or improper maintenance. Internal Mercedes-Benz service reports from 1979 indicated a measurable rate of gasket leakage in pre-1980 engines, while UK DVSA historic failure logs show cooling system issues as a common cause of breakdowns in preserved W123s. Extended oil change intervals and thermal cycling increase head and block stress, making adherence to service procedures critical.
Analysis derived from Mercedes-Benz technical bulletins (1977-1985) and UK DVSA historic failure statistics (1980-1990). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM616917.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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