November 22nd, 2012.
Dkevin:
Thumbs up on the Unimog, nice truck. Just get any rust under control, and plan to replace most of the original rubber on the engine and driveline, as it probably hasn't been done in a few years. Also, be aware that the M180 engine does not like ethanol in the gasoline, so plan on putting a 24 VDC electric fuel pump on it (mine destroyed 3 MB rebuilt fuel pumps in three months when I first go to Illinois), and then on banging your head against the wall when the carb and valve guide seals rubber gets eaten up along with the gas tank linings. Seems Mercedes used Butyl rubber on these, never expecting them to be exposed to 10%ethanol and gasoline, and so far, NOBODY makes the correct rebuild components in silicone rubber. Otherwise, if you drive them like you're sane, they are wonderful little trucks that will eat most other FWD's up and leave them for dead or stuck!
Mine had 10,000 miles on it when I bought it in 2007, now it has about 40,000 and has made the trip from Texas to Illinois once! Too many people on here underrate the S404.114's, but most have never actually driven one or they would sing a much different song. Good luck with the truck!
And if they use salt in your area, wash, paint and undercoat!!!!!
N.B: on the vaporlock mentioned below by Flighht2k5
The Unimog S404.114 uses a carburetor mounted just above the exhaust manifold with a lovely little drain pan and line so when, not if, your carb leaks gasoline, it won't drain on the exhaust manifold. I suspect that this mounting was caused by the "L" head engine, and it does pretty well in the cold (adjust choke by experience and ear), and I never had problems with 106*F days in Texas-but no long hills anywhere in east Texas. Flighht2k5 may have some suggestions as to how to rectify the vapor locks. My truck has hated every minute in Illinois though due to the poor gasoline. Maybe one of these days these folks will learn to drink corn liquor, not burn it!
opcorn: