The crystal and molecular structures of the title compounds are descri
bed, Both contain a triangular Ru-3 core [average Ru-Ru 2.85(3) (n = 1
), 2.83(7) Angstrom (n = 2)], with the PMe(3) ligands occupying equato
rial positions. For n = 2, substantial twisting about the Ru-Ru bonds
results in one CO group adopting a semibridging position across the Ru
-Ru vector joining a substituted Ru with the Ru(CO)(4) fragment, Compa
risons are also made with the previously determined n = 3 complex.