fits model: Sprinter. make: Dodge, Mercedes. year: 2004–2006.

( Brand: Mercedes ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 5117317AB ), ( Part Type: Engine Piston Rod ), ( Country Of Origin: Germany )
The **Mercedes-Benz 5117317AB** is a high-performance, precision-engineered **OEM piston and connecting rod assembly** designed exclusively for the **2004 2006 Dodge Sprinter (T1N)** equipped with the **2.7L OM647 diesel engine**. This critical component set is manufactured to Mercedes-Benz s exacting standards, ensuring seamless integration with the engine s robust yet intricate architecture. The **piston** in this assembly features a **forged aluminum construction**, optimized for durability and thermal efficiency, while its **tapered crown design** enhances combustion performance, reducing heat buildup and improving fuel economy. The **connecting rod**, forged from high-strength steel, is dynamically balanced to minimize vibration and wear, even under the high torque demands of the OM647 s turbocharged diesel operation. Together, these components are engineered to withstand the rigorous demands of daily commercial or off-road use, offering extended service life and reliable operation. Whether installed in a cargo van, passenger van, or work truck, this piston and rod set ensures peak engine performance, reduced maintenance intervals, and compliance with the original equipment manufacturer s specifications. Built to withstand the stresses of continuous operation, this assembly is a direct replacement for factory parts, guaranteeing compatibility with the Sprinter s **common-rail direct-injection system** and **intercooled turbocharger**, making it an essential upgrade for owners seeking long-term reliability and optimal power output.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying a Mercedes-Benz 5117317AB (2004-2006 Dodge Sprinter T1N, 2.7L OM647 Engine with Piston/Connecting Rod Issue)**
#### **Overview**
The **Mercedes-Benz 5117317AB** is a **2004-2006 Dodge Sprinter T1N** with a **2.7L OM647 diesel engine**, known for its reliability in the right hands. However, it has a **notorious piston/connecting rod issue** (commonly referred to as the **"rod knock"** problem) that can lead to catastrophic engine failure if not addressed. Below is a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros**
1. **Strong Engine Base (When Healthy)**
- The **OM647** is a robust diesel engine when properly maintained. It produces **140-160 HP and 240-260 lb-ft of torque**, making it suitable for heavy-duty work (e.g., cargo hauling, towing, or off-roading).
- With **regular oil changes (every 5,000-7,500 miles)** and proper maintenance, it can last **200,000 miles** without major issues.
2. **Proven Durability in Some Cases**
- Many OM647 engines, especially those with **low mileage (
- Some owners report **no issues** if they strictly follow maintenance schedules (oil changes, fuel system cleaning, etc.).
3. **Strong Aftermarket Support**
- The Sprinter platform has a **large aftermarket community**, making parts (turbochargers, injectors, pumps) and modifications (lift kits, exhaust, suspension) widely available.
- **Remanufactured OM647 engines** are sold by companies like **Mercedes-Benz Parts, Euro Car Parts, and specialty diesel shops**, offering a cost-effective alternative to buying a new engine.
4. **Good for Commercial & Off-Road Use**
- The **T1N chassis** is **heavily built**, making it ideal for **commercial use (moving, construction, farming)** or **off-road adventures** (with proper modifications).
- The **high ground clearance (7.5")** and **strong frame** allow for **serious off-roading** when equipped with proper tires and suspension.
5. **Potential for High Resale Value (If Well-Maintained)**
- Sprinters, especially **low-mileage examples with clean titles**, hold value well in the **commercial and modified van market**.
- **Restored or heavily modified Sprinters** (e.g., camper vans, work vans) can sell for **$20,000-$40,000 ** depending on condition.
6. **Fuel Efficiency (When Running Well)**
- The **2.7L OM647** gets ** 15-20 MPG** in mixed driving, which is decent for a diesel of its era.
- **Turbocharged versions (OM647DE22LA)** can improve efficiency further.
7. **Modular & Upgradeable**
- The **OM647** can be **turbocharged, nitrous-injected, or upgraded with larger injectors** for more power.
- **Exhaust and intake modifications** are common, allowing for **better airflow and performance**.
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### **Cons**
1. **Rod Knock (Piston/Connecting Rod Failure) The Biggest Issue**
- The **OM647 is infamous for rod knock**, a **catastrophic failure** where pistons or connecting rods break, causing **severe internal damage**.
- **Symptoms include:**- **Knocking or rattling noises** (especially under load or cold starts).
- **Blue smoke from the exhaust** (indicating oil burning).
- **Loss of power or rough idle**.
- **Engine misfires or complete failure**.
- **Once rod knock occurs, the engine is usually beyond repair** unless caught **very early** (which is rare).
2. **High Repair Costs (If Engine Fails)**
- **Replacing the entire engine** (new or reman) costs **$8,000-$15,000 **.
- **Rebuilding a rod-knocked engine** is **not cost-effective** most mechanics recommend **replacing it**.
- **Labor costs** for engine removal/installation are **high** ($1,500-$3,000 ).
3. **Oil Consumption & Maintenance Requirements**
- The **OM647 is notorious for burning oil**, especially in **high-mileage examples**.
- **Oil changes must be done religiously** (every **5,000 miles** with **full synthetic oil**).
- **Fuel system cleaning** (every **20,000-30,000 miles**) is **critical** to prevent injector and pump failures.
4. **Common Secondary Issues**
- **Turbocharger failures** (common in high-mileage examples).
- **Injector and fuel pump failures** (due to poor fuel quality or lack of maintenance).
- **Transmission issues** (especially in **automatic models** some have **slipping or rough shifting**).
- **Water pump failures** (can cause **overheating** if not replaced).
- **Exhaust manifold cracks** (common in older Sprinters).
5. **Rust & Structural Issues**
- Many **2004-2006 Sprinters** suffer from **rust in the frame, subframe, and suspension components**.
- **Undercoating is often missing**, leading to **corrosion in wheel wells and lower chassis areas**.
- **Brake lines and fuel lines** may need replacement if the van has been exposed to moisture.
6. **Emissions & Modern Compliance Issues**
- **2004-2006 models do not meet modern emissions standards**, which can cause **issues with inspections** in some states.
- **DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) failures** are common in **later OM647 models** (though not all 2004-2006 examples have them).
7. **Parts & Labor Costs**
- **Mercedes-Benz parts are expensive**, especially for **turbochargers, injectors, and pumps**.
- **Specialty diesel mechanics** charge **premium rates** for OM647 work.
- **Some parts are discontinued**, requiring **aftermarket or remanufactured alternatives**.
8. **Resale Value Decline**
- Unlike **Toyota or Ford diesels**, the **OM647 does not retain value well** due to its **reputation for rod knock**.
- **Buyers are often wary**, leading to **lower resale prices** compared to other commercial vans.
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### **Conclusion**
The **2004-2006 Dodge Sprinter T1N with a 2.7L OM647 engine** is a **capable workhorse** when **properly maintained**, but it comes with **significant risks**, primarily the **rod knock issue**. Here s the breakdown:
- **If you buy one with low mileage (
- **If you buy one with high mileage (>150,000) or no service records**, the **risk of rod knock is extremely high**, making it a **financial gamble**.
- **The biggest red flag is any history of knocking, blue smoke, or rough running** these are **warning signs** that the engine may already be failing.
- **If you find a rod-knocked engine**, **replacing it is the only viable option**, and the cost can **easily exceed $10,000**.
### **Recommendation**
#### **Buy Only If:****You have a verified low-mileage example (
**You are prepared to perform (or pay for) strict maintenance:**- **Oil changes every 5,000 miles (full synthetic).**
- **Fuel system cleaning every 20,000-30,000 miles.**
- **Regular turbo, injectors, and water pump inspections.**
**You are buying it for a specific purpose (e.g., commercial work, off-roading) where reliability is critical but you can afford repairs.**
**You are willing to budget for potential engine replacement ( $10,000 ).**
#### **Avoid If:****You cannot afford unexpected engine repairs.**
**The van has any history of knocking, blue smoke, or rough running.**
**You are buying it without a **pre-purchase inspection (PPI) from a diesel specialist.**
**You expect it to last without major maintenance (this engine requires **more
Unless stated otherwise It may be a little dusty from storage use. Please be 100% sure this is the correct part for your vehicle. 2003 2006 SPRINTER 2.7L. For sale is an used OEM part original equipment manufacturer that came stock with your car, it not aftermarket.