MB OM314 4 cylinder engine history, how well they run ,parts?

I have a strange combo , a 1964 Ford F100 2wd pickup powered by a 4 cylinder MB OM314 direct injection diesel engine. Some one shoe horned the engine with an home made adapter plate . The MB runs well but I have to pull start start as the series parallel switch just buzzes. I read somewhere that the engine and its 6 cylinder sister engine was built from 1964 to about 1980 and was in trucks and Unimogs? Any one have any experience with this engine family? Part supplies? Any info helpful.

Did you ever do anything with this truck? I have an unimog with the same engine and thinking I may need to pull it for a replacement. I saw your post and thought I'd see what you did with your unique scenario...

We have pull started the truck it ran fine with 100psi oil pressure and no death rattles. We have the Bosh 24 volt starter with 9 tooth gear. Is your starter 12 or 24 volt? I want to convert to a 12 volt starter if possible. Any ideas? I like Unimogs but getting too old for the cab climb.

Hmm. I'm pretty sure everything on my 403/406 is 12v. But then again I haven't ever had to pull the starter, so I'm no help there either. Does your starter look like this one:

https://www.amazon.com/3-0KW-STARTER-MERCEDES-TRUCKS-455527/dp/B008Y3RE1I

So you are sticking with the 4cyl benz diesel in your F100?