Aftermarket grill frame ?

[norton]

Is there a part number or other ID on a OE grill frame, How can you tell the difference between OEM and aftermarket grill frames?

Mike Halleck
Chesterfield Mi
71 280SL
68 250SL (parts car)
94 E320 Coupe

[Bob G]

Mike:
OE grills have 158 white grey sprayed inside to prevent rust.

Bob Geco

[enochbell]

Even without the sealing paint, the finish on OEM vs. aftermarket is readily apparent.  The OEM is a very clean and even plating, evident even with an older pitted unit, whereas the aftermarket surrounds I have seen have a noticeable wave and imperfect finish in the chrome.  

g

'64 230sl, fully sorted out...ooops, spoke too soon

[pagode.info]

There is no number or paint inside grille
frames.

The aftermarket ones come more thin and
do not fit perfectly on the top as well.

Please note that even the OEM new grille
frames are not that perfect any more. The
one I picked up from Merc yesterday, was
poor. (Imperfections/Chrome)

Have a nice day,

Tom

www.pagode.info