Lka1988

So I guess we should all just go buy new Surface laptops and suck Microsoft’s dick then?

Using a computer is much more than just opening a web browser. Web browsing wasn’t even mentioned in the comment you responded to. Running Linux is already several steps better than using an operating system that actively spies on you.

Or don’t use AI to read what is essentially a list of commands.

Yeah, it really is. And you’re not kidding about this:

AC in a 240 huh…you have to block off time in Outlook for onramps.

I don’t know the last time it’s been on the freeway, to be honest. But she’s solid. I drove her to work today. Just hopped in and fired right up (after the glow plugs).

Before the “just install Linux” people show up - some things simply will not run on Linux.

Tools like this are great for a Windows VM for random Windows-only shit. Like Toyota Techstream.

Edit: I don’t know why I’m getting downvoted for this. I literally have a copy of Techstream for my Toyotas, hosted in a Windows VM on my laptop that runs Linux. Techstream will only run under Windows. This is not up for debate.

Right on, thanks!

The locks and AC are probably related. Even the manual AC has vacuum pods I think. Buy a Mityvac and start chasing vacuum leaks.

Good to know. Already got a mityvac specifically for this car. The system definitely has a few leaks, I can only get maybe two lock cycles in before it’s done for (with the locks that still work, anyway)

Probably cracked runner connectors, but if your trans shifts 1-2 hard too there’s a bigger leak.

Forgot to mention - it’s a manual transmission 😅

Speeduino is a thing. Not exactly drop-in, but it’s a start.

Ive owned a lot of old diesel Mercedes.

You. I like you. Know any good parts sources besides Pelican?

Yes, it will run forever but you have to adjust the valves and check the chain stretch annually and no one will do this for you so you will be stained black from diesel engine oil.

I’m aware. It has nearly 500k miles on the odo already. Valve adjustments are easy. Though I’m curious - does the engine need to come out to change the chain if it’s too stretched? There’s plenty of room…

All the accessories will stop working including the electric windows, except the oil pressure gauge and the speedometer which doesn’t matter in a 240 anyway.

Mine is a base model with crank windows and manual climate controls. The door locks barely work as it is; I’ll be replacing them anyway though.

The oil pressure gauge is also leaking a bit. Any tips on an electric replacement? Or should I just fix what’s in there?

Oh! Believe it or not, the AC still works. Barely. But it works.

The drivers seat will lean outboard

Too late.

and the ignition cylinder will break and leave your key stuck in ACC.

That’s good to know. What should I look for before this happens?

The subframe bushings will go and you’ll be waggling your tail at everyone behind, you hot little diesel tart.

This one seems to drive quite nice for its age and miles. Though we shall see how it does

Right, but that’s not relevant to the topic. We’re talking about the car itself collecting data and sending that to the manufacturer.

Interesting point you bring up.

The inner workings and overall principles of the internal combustion engine are well-documented. There are also open-source engine controllers - Speeduino comes to mind. Electric motors and their controllers are also well-documented.

People build kit cars all the time, enough that many U.S. states actually have specific standards that a kit car must meet in order to be road legal; hilariously, these standards are often far lower than vehicles manufactured by an OEM.

ICE you get a lot more years to pick from, some of which are pretty simple/low tech.

I have a couple vehicles that fall into this category. 1980 Mercedes 240D, and a 1980 Honda XR500. Dead simple vehicles. The Benz will happily continue running with zero battery. The XR only requires a whole 3 wires to run, and since it’s kickstarted, no battery is required at all.

What do you guys think? Stick to older used cars and not use an EV or look at which of the manufacturers have the least bad privacy policy?

Stick to older cars. Learn the way of the wrench. End.