Ok, so just to clarify things I am using an om602 engine. This is not the same as the om617.
I got the transmission today. It is an r150f if I am correct. The reason for choosing this transmission is for the size of the flywheel. the flywheel for this transmission is only 1/8" over the diameter of the original flywheel and it also has an 8 bolt pattern to the crankshaft. The bolt holes will need to be slotted about 1mm out from original pattern and the center hole will be machined to about 2mm larger than original diameter. I have yet to figure out the pilot bearing dimensions. I am planning on cutting the bell housing down to compensate for the difference in backspacing. I will need to weld in a new flange that is sized to the mercedes bolt pattern. I am also looking at the starter and gear compatibility. Looks like I may be taking the starter gear off of the toyota V6 starter and fitting it onto the mercedes starter motor.