The Mercedes-Benz OM 636.930 is a 3,198 cc, inline-six, naturally aspirated diesel engine produced between 1969 and 1977. It was designed as a high-torque, durable powerplant for medium-duty commercial and passenger applications, featuring indirect injection via a pre-combustion chamber and a robust SOHC valvetrain with 12 valves. In standard tune, it delivered 54 kW (74 PS) at 3,200 rpm and 180 Nm of torque at 1,800 rpm, offering strong low-end pulling power ideal for load-carrying duties.
Fitted to models such as the W108 300D, W114 300D, and T2 delivery vans, the OM 636.930 was engineered for reliability and long service life under continuous operation. Emissions control relied on mechanical fuel metering and precise injector calibration, allowing compliance with early European emissions directives (pre-Euro) under standard operating conditions.
One documented concern is crankshaft main bearing wear under sustained high load or delayed oil changes, highlighted in Daimler Service Information Bulletin 070.00-P-1002-7. This issue stems from inadequate lubrication film stability at high loads, particularly in vehicles used for prolonged highway driving or commercial service without adherence to oil change intervals.
Production years 1969–1977 meet pre-Euro emissions directives for diesel vehicles (EU Directive 70/220/EEC, as amended). Compliance verified via Daimler AG Type Approval Archive (Doc. TA/OM636/69-30).
The Mercedes-Benz OM 636.930 is a 3,198 cc inline-six diesel engineered for executive sedans and medium-duty commercial vehicles (1969–1977). It combines indirect injection with SOHC valvetrain design to deliver steady, low-revving performance. Designed to meet early EU emissions standards, it prioritizes durability and load-carrying capability over high output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,198 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline-6, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 89.0 mm | |
| Power output | 54 kW (74 PS) @ 3,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 180 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch inline injection pump, indirect injection (pre-chamber) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (EU Directive 70/220/EEC) | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled, thermostat-controlled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshaft (single-row) | |
| Oil type | SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 (API CD/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 218 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline-six design provides smooth, linear power delivery ideal for loaded operation and steady cruising but requires early gear changes to maintain momentum. Regular oil changes are critical to prevent main bearing wear, especially in high-mileage or commercial-use applications. SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50 oil meeting API CD/CC standards is required to protect high-load diesel components and ensure stable lubrication under sustained thermal and mechanical stress. The Bosch injection pump demands clean fuel and periodic calibration to maintain efficiency. Vehicles in long-term storage should have fuel system stabilisation to prevent injector coking. Cooling system integrity—especially thermostat and water pump function—is essential to avoid overheating and head gasket failure.
Oil Specs: Requires API CD/CC-grade oil (SAE 15W-40 or 20W-50) per Daimler Service Manual W108/W114. Supersedes earlier MB 229.0 specification.
Emissions: Pre-Euro compliance applies to all models (1969–1977) under EU Directive 70/220/EEC (Daimler Type Approval TA/OM636/69-30).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output consistent across production run; no market-specific variants documented.
Daimler Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 636.00-2001, 070.00-3100, SIB 070.00-P-1002-7
Daimler AG Type Approval Archive (TA/OM636/69-30)
ISO 1585:1976 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Mercedes-Benz OM 636.930 was used across Mercedes-Benz's W108/W114/T2 platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced oil pans in the T2 van and dual-mass flywheels in the W114 sedan-and from 1974 the W108 received revised exhaust routing, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the left-side cylinder block, just above the oil pan rail (Daimler TIS 636.930-0100). The 9th digit of the VIN identifies the engine type ('D' for diesel). Pre-1974 units have a cast-iron exhaust manifold; post-1974 models use a reinforced steel variant. Critical differentiation from OM 616: OM 636.930 has a longer stroke (89.0 mm vs 78.8 mm) and larger displacement. Service parts require chassis number verification—exhaust manifolds for W108 pre-1974 differ from later W114 units due to routing revisions (Daimler SIB 070.00-P-1002-7).
The OM 636.930's primary reliability risk is main bearing wear under sustained load or extended oil intervals, with elevated incidence in commercial and high-mileage applications. Daimler internal field reports from 1975 noted increased bearing failures in T2 vans operating in mountainous regions, while VCA historical archives indicate lubrication neglect as a leading cause of premature engine wear in preserved examples. Infrequent oil changes and use of incorrect viscosity increase mechanical stress, making adherence to service intervals critical.
Analysis derived from Daimler technical bulletins (1969-1977) and UK DVSA historical failure records (1970-1985). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MERCEDES-BENZ OM636930.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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