I've looked into it, and basically narrowed the options down to the OM601 (4 cyl) NA and the OM602 (5 cyl) turbo.  The six cyls are way too long.  The 602 is an excellent option, but it's pretty long and would require a custom sump.  It should fit a Doka in the upright position.  The adapter plate and flexplate/flywheel would also need to be custom, as would the engine mounting arms.  I love VW diesels, but the timing belts are an Achilles Heel, and MBs use the more robust and long lived timing chains.

In summary, it's a doable install but you're entirely on your own when it comes to cobbling together the pieces required to shoehorn the lump into place.

Sent from my iPhone

On Jun 3, 2013, at 11:20 PM, Tom Hargrave <thargrav@HIWAAY.NET> wrote:

> Has anyone put a Mercedes diesel in a Vanagon? I've owned a lot of Mercedes
> and I'm familiar with the engines.
> 
> 
> 
> The Mercedes 2.4 liter & 3 liter Mercedes engine is more reliable than the
> VW engine & the 3 liter turbo should produce plenty of power.
> 
> 
> 
> Tom