I recently purchased an '82 300CD-T, and am trying to put together a
good basic kit of tools and maintenance products to have on hand for
most simple DIY fixes. I'm not particularly handy, but I'm not
incompetent, either, so I'm wondering if anyone has recommendations for
parts/tools/diagnostic tools that will go the farthest in helping
maintain my car. For example, I understand the vacuum systems on these
cars need maintenance from time to time, so what do I need to
troubleshoot problems and what would I need to then do basic fixes? The
same goes for any filters, etc. that I could change myself in my
garage.

Couple of more questions: How do I test my compression, and does anyone
have preferred products for cleaning and protecting the dashboard and
M-B Tex seats? I don't want to use a product that looks good short-term
but ruins the material in the long run. Any help would be greatly
appreciated, since I hope to keep this car in good running order for a
long time to come.