I've got an '81 300SD with 271K miles in need of (at least) a turbo repair/replacement. I've used Southern Star in Anniston in the past, but they seem to think very highly of their work...

Any idea of who else might be good to take a look at this for a reasonable price?

Also - anyone have an idea what this vehicle would be worth repaired? UNrepaired?

I see you are new - Welcome. One of the first things you should know is there is nothing more expensive than a cheap Mercedes.
Value is determined by a lot of things and can't be determined just by stating year and model. Is it a beater or a show car or somewhere in between? Over here your average 126, 123 in that year range is probably $1500 - 1800 in fair condition, with some known minor problems.

Thanks. I have owned the car for about ten years, but it has been sitting idle (garaged) for over 3 years. The car is probably on the low side of average, having some body dings, a crack in the windshield, and cracks in the leather interior...

I really enjoyed driving this car daily, but I'm not sure I want to keep sinking money into it...

It's the typical "heart" or "head" problem. You love the car and hate to see it go but the thought of pouring $$ into bothers you. After you get through that it all boils down to economics - can you afford to bring the girl back to her former glory or would you just be better off with a newer car. It is not a problem at all to drop way more into these older cars in repairs than what their actual value is and that is thinking with your head. I sort of like the older models and enjoy the frustrations they bring, that's thinking with your heart.

I know of a repair shop in the B'ham area if you're willing to take it that far.
http://www.mercedesshop.com/shopforum/showpost.php?p=1083746&postcount=9

I've got an '81 300SD with 271K miles in need of (at least) a turbo repair/replacement. I've used Southern Star in Anniston in the past, but they seem to think very highly of their work...

Any idea of who else might be good to take a look at this for a reasonable price?

Also - anyone have an idea what this vehicle would be worth repaired? UNrepaired?
I was at a cruise-in one summer night last year in Rainbow city. A young, mid 20's fellow came over to my car, expressing his admiration. I talked with him for a while, and discovered he worked for a shop in Albertville. He said they specialized in BMW and MB. We talked about timing chain issues related to the 117 engine. From our discussion, I determined he knew what he was talking about. Wish I could remember the name...????

Thanks, all, for your input. Though I really love the car, I think at this point economics may overrule. :(

The car does not crank, so Albertville or BHM are a little too far out...

While chatting with a mechanic doing work on another of my vehicles yesterday, I found out that he has worked on high-end vehicles in the past. BMW, MB, etc. He said he'd be willing to take a look at my 300SD. His name is Eddie Paris. Anyone heard of him?? He seemed to be knowledgeable...

Still looking for a qualified local mechanic to work on the 1981 300SD.

Any recently joined member know?