Hello...where can I find this documentation on OM642 break in oil , as I NEVER heard of such a thing...I can only believe that if you do not keep it in till the 10K mark you just prolong the seating of the internal engine parts?? Good or bad?? I don't know, however I would like to be educated on this. Thanks for the reply.
http://www.startekinfo.com
You'll have to subscribe (something like $20 for 24 hours) and find other OM642 engine variants in vehicles like the GL-320 CDI or the ML-320CDI.
These vehicles use the same engine family as the diesel Sprinter.
Alternatively, you may order the service DVD for those models or the model R251; the cdi station wagon that also uses the OM642. You can order the service DVDs for any USA MB products from1-800-367-6372. Since the Sprinter is not a product sold and serviced by MB-USA, LLC, they don't have a DVD for it. This is tragically unfortunate since their DVDs are vastly superior to the stuff Chrysler will sell to us.
The catch for the USA is that you have to know a vehicle that uses the same engine as the Sprinter (like the model 251 CDI, or GL320 etc) . The Sprinter is not an "MB" product according to the monoply on MB products in the USA (MB USA, LLC). They don't support or document the Sprinter.
Service information for MB products is not "public." Service info for Chrysler's Sprinter is not "public."
MB service info is better than Chrysler service info, but it is published for professional technicians working for shops that are expected - by MB USA, LLC - to pay for the documentation.
I don't think it's a good MB policy - I think a good policy is one that which would make service info free for everyone - but it is what it is... like college, some information costs money.
MB own the info, they can charge for it.
It took me a lot of time and reading to figure out what I know about the OM642; I spent more time than the average mechanic would spend researching Sprinters in the context of MB.
I wouldn't fault you for not taking the same path I did. I believe you should do what you feel is right for yourself; and I would welcome another mind in the mix. It's a lot of information and I would welcome confirmation that my interpretations are on target or otherwise.
I did receive confirmation from UK Sprinter owners that "break in oil" is special and is required for MB products. You don't have to believe it or lend it any credibility. I chose to after I confirmed it with MB USA service information.
You are free to make whatever choices are right for you.
-Jon