Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => General Discussion => Topic started by: Thierry du Laos on March 19, 2014, 02:25:42

Title: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 19, 2014, 02:25:42

This topic is the continuation of:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=20051.0
And is targetted to share my experience on refurbishing my car.
My car is a 280SL of 1968, that I bought 3 years ago on the web near New York.
She came in a container to my home in Laos after a 2 years trip, mainly due to the expensive Laotian Import Tax problem I had to deal with.
Now, March 2014, I start at last this new project based on my experience on Pontons:
http://www.mbzponton.org/pax058/people/savidan/savidan.htm
All the pictures I take can be viewed on my album at this link:
http://www.hostingpics.net/album/thierrydulaos-127354.html
All comments are welcome to enhance my knowledge on our marvelous Mercedes "Pagodas".

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 19, 2014, 02:43:49

Removing the parts under the dashboard, i found a mice nest and they have eaten the rubber hose drains nearby.
And I think that anyway, after nearly 50 years these rubbers are cooked, and fail to do their job. It is interesting to check the condition on your cars, as if these are damaged the water entering the front cabin air intake will drain on the cabin floor, not anymore in the engin bay!!
http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=277633IMG2263.jpg

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: kampala on March 19, 2014, 18:47:58

Thierry,

I just went through some of your photos through your link (not all) and it's amazing the amount of work you have taken on. 

It would be interesting to know what condition the car was in when you purchased it vs. the condition it was in when you finally got it through customs.  I was shocked at what you found in the gas tank and the condition of the brake calipers.  Based on your rebuild experiences of past cars this will turn out to be a gem ... the tremendous amount of work you are doing will pay-off!

Appreciate you posting updates ...

Bon courage!

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 20, 2014, 02:59:34

Thanks Kampala,
Just posted these 2 pix:
http://www.hostingpics.net/membres/voir,269074IMG2272.jpg,22.html
http://www.hostingpics.net/membres/voir,319080IMG2275.jpg,22.html

You will have it all on my album (refer to first post of this topic), before and step by step, after...
So far, I am still discovering the condition of the car. There is stil filler and primer in many exterior places where I still wonder what's under?

Quel endroit en region Parisienne?

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: kampala on March 20, 2014, 14:58:17

Thierry,

I live in the Champs-de-Mars area and work in Marne-la-Valee.  

The two additional links you provided do not seem to work for me ... but I went to your album link from the pervious post and saw some additional photos.  

Keep it up ...

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 21, 2014, 04:00:00

Kampala,
Very nice place to live in!!

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 25, 2014, 09:36:03

Going through more discoveries:
http://www.hostingpics.net/membres/voir,535105IMG2303.jpg,22.html
and
http://www.hostingpics.net/membres/voir,762608IMG2302.jpg,22.html

I remind you if you want more pix, they all here. The last ones in the last pages:
http://www.hostingpics.net/album/thierrydulaos-127354.html

Lots of work coming.
Thierry from Laos

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: kampala on March 25, 2014, 20:52:42

Quote from: Thierry du Laos on March 25, 2014, 09:36:03

Lots of work coming.

Thierry, you said it perfectly. 

You've got quite a bit taken apart ... quick work.  What's going on with the door?  Is that some previous owners attempt at welding the door panel? 

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 26, 2014, 03:15:57

Yes the door might have been hit, and a guy welded a new piece! Then they filled the door with at least 1/2 an inch of filler.
But it was cracking, crying under the weight. So I pulled it out.
Out of many bumps all around more or less important, everywhere the car has suffered an heavy corrosion under the body.
So the only way to save the car is to do it from scrap.
I don't know if anybody knows the contact in Poland where it seems that they produce some sheet metal parts for this car?
It would be easier than the US for me, as its part of EU. And probably cheaper too than from Germany?

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Flyair on March 26, 2014, 23:34:12

Since you called on the culprit for the contact in Poland I sent you a PM

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on April 04, 2014, 04:20:09

i am starting to make a tool like on this drawing to work on the car.

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_879627W113Standtoolattach.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=879627W113Standtoolattach.jpg)

Updated attachments to the frame...

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on April 04, 2014, 09:06:05

Hi Petri (Star63)
Just found your Post: Another DIY restoration!!!!!
Very interesting at the beginning of mine.
You've done all that job without removing the mechanic parts.
Wasn't too hard to access?
I've removed all from mine because anyway I have to refurbish all in the same time.
I'll try to make mine as well as yours...!
Nice job.
Thierry from Laos
(Used to work a while with KARAIR)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on April 23, 2014, 01:33:00

Here I am ready to turn the car on the side to carry on :
http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=967057IMG2459.jpg

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: star63 on April 23, 2014, 05:37:01

Very interesting project, Thierry!

I think it was a good decision from you to remove the engine and the drivetrain.
I should have done the same when I started my project. It would have helped quite a bit.

You'll have a lot of welding ahead. The jig (and possibly some additional bracing) will help to keep the body straight and panel gaps correct.

- Petri

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on April 24, 2014, 02:04:40

Here we are after some worries, but it worked ok.

While turning:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_769370IMG2462.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=769370IMG2462.jpg)

And done:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_634311IMG2464.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=634311IMG2464.jpg)

I was surprised by the rather high bare body weight . I wonder how much she weights?

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Rolf-Dieter ✝︎ on April 24, 2014, 10:56:04

Re: Weight assuming from all you removed (engine, transmission, interior etc. etc.) my guesstimate from what I see in your last photos would be between 1,700 to 1,900 Lbs. Not including the frame of course.

If someone would ask me what the complete rigging weight would be (if transport would be required to another location) I would say rig for 4,000 Lbs to be on the safe side.

Quite a project you have undertaken there! Wishing you all the best for the remainder, must be fun doing and so rewarding once finished. Do keep posting with lots of photos as you go on.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on April 25, 2014, 09:29:34

Thanks Rolf,
Yes I think it is around 1 700 lbs. I thought initially it would be less, but lifting to turn it all I changed my thoughts....
Yes, sure I'll post all along the job.
And hopefully it gives a nice new star birth!!

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on April 25, 2014, 09:36:06

The problem coming soon is how to fix the right door.
She has been repaired by some guys I wouldn't give my car to fix, near New York. They cut, roughtly welded and filled with a lot of filler.
(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_878402IMG2446.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=878402IMG2446.jpg)
(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_535105IMG2303.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=535105IMG2303.jpg)

New panel or could it still be repaired by a good sheetmetal worker?

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Rolf-Dieter ✝︎ on April 26, 2014, 12:54:19

Looks pretty bad to me, I would check to see what the cost of a new door would be and compare it to the repair cost. Sometimes spending a few more dollars makes a lot of sense.

Someone once said, "The price one pays for quality is soon forgotten, the quality is never forgotten" or words along those lines :)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on April 28, 2014, 09:35:09

I agree with you Rolf,
However, I am in SE ASIA where still the manpower for that kind of work is affordable...
I worked in Aviation for many years, and I will make it properly!
I am investigating for the different possibilities.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on May 02, 2014, 03:11:29

Making some progress:
(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_441108IMG2485.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=441108IMG2485.jpg)

Its nice and motivating to find among the rust some good condition left structure.
However if some middle parts are still good, all the ends are in poor condition and reduce dramatically the complete rigidity of the car structure.
I have no regret doing this havy job.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on May 20, 2014, 03:55:05

Going on smoothly, flipping over to the other side:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_618300IMG2527.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=618300IMG2527.jpg)

Removing the rear panel:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_723477IMG2526.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=723477IMG2526.jpg)

Lots of rust....!

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on May 27, 2014, 02:26:40

Rust:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_500373IMG2543.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=500373IMG2543.jpg)

Clean, cut, make new pieces:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_924845IMG2546.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=924845IMG2546.jpg)

And weld:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_160621IMG2551.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=160621IMG2551.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on June 18, 2014, 03:43:33

Carrying on....

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_597465IMG2603.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=597465IMG2603.jpg)

I wonder how an owner can do to put a car in that condition?

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Flyair on June 18, 2014, 04:58:20

Thierry,
our beloved cars were longtime youngtimers and treated like any other "left-overs" in some cases. I spoke with a person whose father used to drive a Pagoda. This may appear incredible, but he told me that as a child he remember being ashamed to ride in such a unsophisticated car, with no plastic dashboard, excessive chromes and general "un-modern" looks. So, some of the cars were just relicts of heydays, but not object of cult like now...

Courage. You will make it. The parts are on their way... :)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on June 19, 2014, 09:11:07

What a pity Stan,
Fortunately, we save and take care of some of them....! ;)
Thierry

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on June 26, 2014, 02:50:25

Yesterday I had to straighten the steering column!
It had more than one centimeter over center...?
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_333265IMG2619.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=333265IMG2619.jpg)

I think it is because when I receive the car from the US, the auto gear box was selected out of Neutral, and the rear wheels locked. The link between the selector and the gear box was disconnected!
Some guys will have pushed strong the car on the steering wheel, before pulling her, skidding ?

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on June 27, 2014, 02:39:54

Ready to reinstall
(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_474233IMG2620.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=474233IMG2620.jpg)

And brake pedal
(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_952782IMG2621.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=952782IMG2621.jpg)

Next the ventilation
(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_487362IMG2623.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=487362IMG2623.jpg)

Disassembling
(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_730391IMG2625.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=730391IMG2625.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Lars G on June 27, 2014, 14:49:36

Hi Thierry
Do you have more photos of your blower housing?
See my topic http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=20628.0
Br
Lars

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on July 22, 2014, 02:51:50

Carrying on
But after deep cleaning of the master cylinder, the seals are for replacement.
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_613863IMG2637.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=613863IMG2637.jpg)

Then the radiator has been repaired the easy way by some cheap solution. The car has had an accident in front and the radiator hit the hydraulic pump. They just inhibited 3 lines. Unfortunately, in her new tropical country and with air conditioning she's gone need all the cooling capacity!
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_522456IMG2643.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=522456IMG2643.jpg)

Some work to come on the condenser too.
(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_256198IMG2646.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=256198IMG2646.jpg)

Others are ok.
(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_161357IMG2645.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=161357IMG2645.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on August 29, 2014, 04:08:22

Expecting parts I have done some cleaning and repair:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_878637IMG2628.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=878637IMG2628.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_150011IMG2632.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=150011IMG2632.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_418485IMG2635.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=418485IMG2635.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_523265IMG2644.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=523265IMG2644.jpg)

And received some new metal sheets:

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_567279IMG2654.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=567279IMG2654.jpg)

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_501173IMG2655.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=501173IMG2655.jpg)

More cleaning to come:
(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_543852IMG2650.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=543852IMG2650.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_710928IMG2769.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=710928IMG2769.jpg)

And working again on the body as some as metal sheets arrived:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_622863IMG2771.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=622863IMG2771.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: stickandrudderman on August 29, 2014, 07:49:55

Interesting to note that the underside of your car has the seat belt mountings on the floor behind the seats that have been discussed in a previous thread.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on September 26, 2014, 03:22:28

Yes many seat belt points on this one!!!!
Here's an update of pix, after I get metal parts and back to sheet metal work on the under floor.
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_433846IMG2773.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=433846IMG2773.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_726306IMG2774.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=726306IMG2774.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_571299IMG2778.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=571299IMG2778.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_944260IMG2780.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=944260IMG2780.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_338905IMG2783.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=338905IMG2783.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_724484IMG2793.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=724484IMG2793.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_176291IMG2796.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=176291IMG2796.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_500109IMG2805.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=500109IMG2805.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_500109IMG2805.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=500109IMG2805.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_210355IMG2831.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=210355IMG2831.jpg)
And turn on the other side to work now on the left side:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_700308IMG2832.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=700308IMG2832.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_482435IMG2833.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=482435IMG2833.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_597896IMG2835.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=597896IMG2835.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_632413IMG2836.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=632413IMG2836.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_849985IMG2839.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=849985IMG2839.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_874056IMG2843.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=874056IMG2843.jpg)
Lots of cutting, adjusting, welding.... I get sheet metal experience, which is not my job!

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on October 16, 2014, 09:30:26

Going on the sheet metal work:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_482435IMG2833.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=482435IMG2833.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_210645IMG2871.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=210645IMG2871.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_377734IMG2869.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=377734IMG2869.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_865333IMG2894.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=865333IMG2894.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on October 20, 2014, 02:21:27

Allways more cutting, adjusting and welding, and I get sun tan too, spending so many hours exposed to the welding light. I hope I'll get more from the real sun, after so much spend on her in the garage?
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_899709IMG2950.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=899709IMG2950.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_636840IMG2951.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=636840IMG2951.jpg)

The thing Iam sure of, is that this car is for sure restored, not a rebuilt one!!!
Thierry

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on November 05, 2014, 08:57:57

Some more cutting, welding... it seems endless
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_168201IMG2989.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=168201IMG2989.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_316466IMG2998.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=316466IMG2998.jpg)
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_370684IMG3003.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=370684IMG3003.jpg)

carrying on...

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on November 14, 2014, 02:53:23

On and on:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_930134IMG3022.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=930134IMG3022.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_484667IMG3027.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=484667IMG3027.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_921441IMG3038.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=921441IMG3038.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_430126IMG3044.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=430126IMG3044.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_663301IMG3045.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=663301IMG3045.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Garry on November 14, 2014, 05:59:33

There isnt much you havent replaced. it must have been close to getting a donor body instead!!!

A mighty job looking like you are getting there though.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: JamesL on November 14, 2014, 07:30:03

Garry
That's cos of all the salt they put on Laotian roads in winter ;D

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Scottcorvette on November 14, 2014, 07:45:57

Seems I have gotten away lightly with mine after seeing what you are having to repair there.

I will have to do some similar repairs around the floor. Where did you get the repair panels from and what is the quality and fit like?

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on December 12, 2014, 07:45:04

Hi Scott,
I have a sheet metal guy around here that reworked the floor panels, copying from the remains!
Here are the latest pix:

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_514555IMG3205.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=514555IMG3205.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_673325IMG3093.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=673325IMG3093.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_120872IMG3078.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=120872IMG3078.jpg)

Thierry

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on December 16, 2014, 08:31:13

Never ends, just founds 2 more corroded spots!!
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_415737IMG3208.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=415737IMG3208.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_506886IMG3209.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=506886IMG3209.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Garry on December 16, 2014, 09:35:44

Have you had a very good look, preferably inside, the front cross member box section.  It is a very common place for rust but one of the hardest to detect?  Both my Pagodas,had some rust there and was un known till an ice pick was used :o

Garry

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on January 06, 2015, 05:18:11

Garry,
Do you mean these places:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_210645IMG2871.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=210645IMG2871.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_706325IMG2874.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=706325IMG2874.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_976481IMG2886.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=976481IMG2886.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_264055IMG2888.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=264055IMG2888.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_571299IMG2778.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=571299IMG2778.jpg)

Thierry

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Garry on January 06, 2015, 06:50:10

If you have rust (lots) in all those places then I will bet that you have rust inside here.

Garry

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on January 09, 2015, 05:24:19

Garry,
Yes, I changed both front and back peaces:

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_700844IMG2829.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=700844IMG2829.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_372091IMG2991.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=372091IMG2991.jpg)

They were in very poor condition.
Thierry

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Garry on January 09, 2015, 06:08:43

Thierry

I admire your tenacity, that is such a major rebuild of the car.  I dont think there would be many places in the world where you would consider trying to replace so much metal as the cost would be prohibitive.

Garry

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: mnahon on January 09, 2015, 15:42:12

It reminds me of this amazing odyssey:
http://www.sls-hh-shop.de/cms/bildergalerie.html

I'm impressed by your courage and your skill.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on January 26, 2015, 08:47:42

Hi Meyer,
Mine is not so bad as this 190SL!!!!
I am not professionnal, just former aircraft engineer and try to do it correctly. I don't have a lot of money and compenate with my time and hands!!!!
By the way, who knows were I can get access to the W113 Parts catalog?
I need this to order parts without mistakes.
For my Ponton, I got it fron IPOG group. Can I get it fron SL113?
Thanks

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on January 26, 2015, 08:55:51

Now I am working on small parts as I wait to take out the car to the paint shop and don't have much space left to start the mechanical bi pieces.

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_409275IMG3452.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=409275IMG3452.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_836116IMG3454.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=836116IMG3454.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_481712IMG3455.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=481712IMG3455.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_942254IMG3460.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=942254IMG3460.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_958015IMG3464.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=958015IMG3464.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_678800IMG3465.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=678800IMG3465.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on January 27, 2015, 03:32:53

Is there a way to download a .pdf W113 parts catalog?
Thanks.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on February 12, 2015, 07:30:20

After the last touches, the car is on the way to the paint shop:
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_810468IMG3494.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=810468IMG3494.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_247525IMG3498.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=247525IMG3498.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_419693IMG3500.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=419693IMG3500.jpg)

Now I get some room in my garage to start on the mechanical parts!!

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: kampala on February 12, 2015, 13:41:08

Thierry,

You have reached a Major Milestone!  Congratulations.  Still a ways to go --- but seeing the original condition you received the car in --- this is quite major.

Color?   

Would you have an estimate of the number of man-hours that you have put in so far to enlighten us?

Best,

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 23, 2015, 05:08:13

Work goes on:

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_952965IMG3635.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=952965IMG3635.jpg)

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_473580IMG3637.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=473580IMG3637.jpg)

And now the front...

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_698299IMG3510.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=698299IMG3510.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_523862IMG3511.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=523862IMG3511.jpg)

After hours of cleaning...

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_822850IMG3642.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=822850IMG3642.jpg)

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_767612IMG3645.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=767612IMG3645.jpg)

By the way, I wonder what was the original color of the engine block? Mine, under the mud was red. Most of the restaurations I see on the net are repainted black....!?!?!?!?!
Who can tell me what is correct?

Thierry in Laos

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 23, 2015, 05:12:54

OK, sorry got the answer from a previous topic:

The engine block is a satin black. The red you see is the undercoat primer color.
Joe Alexander

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on June 23, 2015, 03:51:04

At last moving to paint final livery...

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_587886IMG3874.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=587886IMG3874.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: batman on June 23, 2015, 09:34:55

Congrats Thierry. What colour is she being painted and how long do you expect it to take?

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on October 13, 2015, 07:39:29

The car has been painted, but not satisfactory,

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_612245IMG0056.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=612245IMG0056.jpg)

So stripped and an other time, and repainted.

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_149673IMG0835.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=149673IMG0835.jpg)


(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_643090IMG0836.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=643090IMG0836.jpg)

And after 8 months at the paint shop, the car is at last back home.

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_773298IMG0861.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=773298IMG0861.jpg)

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_259062IMG0868.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=259062IMG0868.jpg)

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_789697IMG0876.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=789697IMG0876.jpg)

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_405820IMG0879.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=405820IMG0879.jpg)

Some undercarriage protections and rebuilding soon.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on December 16, 2015, 03:17:39

Rebuilding started, having a good time!

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_934496IMG1482.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=934496IMG1482.jpg)

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_375408IMG1501.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=375408IMG1501.jpg)

Air conditionning!!!! (heavy weight)
Before :

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_951086IMG1656.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=951086IMG1656.jpg)

And after cleaning:

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_794060IMG1661.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=794060IMG1661.jpg)

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_496184IMG1676.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=496184IMG1676.jpg)

(http://img11.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_557910IMG1657.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=557910IMG1657.jpg)

Not easy to reconnect the ventilation cables with new bulbs, but nice job done and works nice now.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Garry on December 16, 2015, 05:32:54

Not taking the opportunity to switch over to the Euro headlights?  8)  Looks like its going great.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on December 31, 2015, 03:39:58

Yes Garry, I'd like to change these head lights, but step by step as parts are not cheap!!!!!
Here are some more pix and questions if some body can help?

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_967790IMG1799.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=967790IMG1799.jpg)

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_577397IMG1800.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=577397IMG1800.jpg)

On this picture below at the starter solenoid there is 2 wires. One from the harness. And can any body confirm the second one is connected to the air conditionning compressor?

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_140226IMG1804.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=140226IMG1804.jpg)

On this picture below is the bottom of the alternator. But I have more wires than expected to connected, can anybody provide a schema? For the ones to the regulator no problem, but the others, at least 5 more wires....

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_918033IMG1805.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=918033IMG1805.jpg)

On this new pic, right side of the engine. There is a 2 fuses box. But I think it has been modified by some previous owners! I think it comes with airconditionning. CAn anyone show me the original?

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_124028IMG1807.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=124028IMG1807.jpg)

On

 Thanks all and Happy New Year to all the Pagoda SL group members!!!

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on December 31, 2015, 03:50:52

Sorry, I think just found the info for connecting the wires to the automatic gear box in the technical pages!
But not the selector adjustment and othe points!!!!
Thierry

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on January 15, 2016, 04:41:34

Slowly coming together...

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_316646IMG1821.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=316646IMG1821.jpg)

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_114652IMG1822.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=114652IMG1822.jpg)

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_977976IMG1823.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=977976IMG1823.jpg)

Expecting to fire her again after 2 years work, this week end!!!?

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Pinder on January 15, 2016, 13:33:58

Looks fantastic. you do great work.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: mnahon on January 15, 2016, 14:11:47

This is much more than 'slowly coming together'. Considering where you started, this is hugely impressive. Seems you're 80% done or better. Good luck with the engine start. There might be some setbacks there, given the number of things that have to be right for that, but nothing your skill and perseverance can't sort out.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on January 18, 2016, 03:34:19

Thanks,
Just started this Saturday. Feels good. I will post the video when found the way to reduce the 88Mb!!
Just had to repair the fuel pump that was stuck after 2 years on the shelf...
Then after start, I had a fuel leakage at the Cold Start Valve. Inhibited temporarily !!
And then no temperature increase at the central indicator... The brand new set was touching in the central indicator box preventing the Bourdon tube to move the needle. Had to grind the box inside to make it free.
Alternator is charging properly, so just minor electrical problems left. Like when I open the driver door, the red light comes on the central indicator!!!!
Video soon coming....

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: mnahon on January 18, 2016, 05:09:03

The red light is supposed to come on when you open the door. Another thing fixed.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on February 01, 2016, 03:55:17

Thanks for the red light.
Now working on the doors.

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_306997IMG1883.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=306997IMG1883.jpg)

Very nice to re-assembly as they designed like no cars are built any more like that... Just need to remove the door again as I need the access for the threshold, I thought I could install later!! But can't fit the front screws!

And prepared the windshield. Not easy doing it alone, but after using tape and elastics I am ready for installing on the car.
I prefer to work alone than getting help I cannot control!

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_215447IMG1881.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=215447IMG1881.jpg)

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_163804IMG1885.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=163804IMG1885.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on February 01, 2016, 04:02:24

Hey Meyer,
My first teen-ager cars were a Spitfire 1200, and then 1500!!! Loved these, but I am too old now !! They are too low and would hirt my bad back... The Pagoda will be better!
Do you speak french??

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: mnahon on February 01, 2016, 04:28:13

Salut Thierry, oui, je parle francais; c'est ma langue maternelle.

Funny you should mention the Spitfire. I banished my Pagoda to another garage for this winter in order to resuscitate the Spitfire. It was in unintended storage the past 13 years. I want to get it running and then get rid of it. That will be sad---I've had it since I was a teenager. But it makes no sense for me to keep it---I don't drive very much and so there's no point in two summer cars.

That car is a blast to drive, but it's a bucket of bolts on wheels. A great car when you're young and your body can take abuse.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on February 01, 2016, 04:33:07

As-tu un e-mail perso pour ne pas encombrer le site?
Le mien est savidan_thierry@yahoo.fr

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on February 08, 2016, 07:16:40

Installed the windshield alone, very easy. The most difficult of that job was to fit together the seal and aluminium trim on the glass.

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_970435IMG1954.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=970435IMG1954.jpg)

Working on the doors and hoods alone. My father used to say: Better alone than baddly accompagnied!!!!
So I have to find tricks to the jobs:

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_306997IMG1883.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=306997IMG1883.jpg)

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_519364IMG1955.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=519364IMG1955.jpg)

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_661972IMG1956.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=661972IMG1956.jpg)

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_142829IMG1957.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=142829IMG1957.jpg)

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_855852IMG1958.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=855852IMG1958.jpg)

And looking for a good second hand US fog light assembly, same as this one:

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_193067IMG1959.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=193067IMG1959.jpg)

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_185817IMG1961.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=185817IMG1961.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on February 29, 2016, 04:24:28

I had the engine running too rich and hot.
Finaly got it better adjusting the links between the air intacke and injection pumps, and replacing the thermostatic valve. Needs to confirm now on the road test.
Not easy to remove the thermostatic valve!!!!

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_646923IMG2039.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=646923IMG2039.jpg)

And got the seats from upholstery, red leather.

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_603875IMG2048.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=603875IMG2048.jpg)

Got the seat's rails at last on Ebay in Germany, after looking for them 2 years.
Still missing one US head light and a fuel tank gauge....

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 15, 2016, 03:08:01

Now I am working on the upholstery....

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_515427IMG2101.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=515427IMG2101.jpg)

Making new parts similar to the originals to fix the back rests.

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_908456IMG2111.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=908456IMG2111.jpg)

Finally got the parts missing on E-bay:

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_823119IMG4678.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=823119IMG4678.jpg)

and

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_298824FogTurnlightassy1.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=298824FogTurnlightassy1.jpg)

And also after hours in Bangkok's old shops, bought a brand new fuel quantity sensor for half the price of Europe's!!

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_507108IMG2158.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=507108IMG2158.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 21, 2016, 02:15:42

I spend a lot more of time, than expected, reinstalling all the bits of upholstery, chromes etc.., in the cockpit!!!
It looks nice progressively, but it is a big time consuming to re-fit all the screws in their original holes, seals, etc....

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 25, 2016, 03:48:49

Step by step...

(http://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_318328IMG2178.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=318328IMG2178.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Mike K on March 25, 2016, 06:49:01

Well done, it's looking fantastic!

Best,

Mike

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on March 28, 2016, 03:46:44

Thanks, not yet finished!!!!!!!!!!

Still many bits missing....
And lots of time. But has to be well done, because its very important for the final look!

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on September 28, 2016, 02:17:16

Getting around details now....

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_382538IMG3413.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=382538IMG3413.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_660374IMG3414.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=660374IMG3414.jpg)

And drove around the car for first time. But not too far, because I need to register now...

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_822590IMG3226.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=822590IMG3226.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_422040IMG3218.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=422040IMG3218.jpg)



(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_455603IMG32171.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=455603IMG32171.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_224130IMG3224.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=224130IMG3224.jpg)



(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_61736314263966102088893624038869173991176546391754n.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=61736314263966102088893624038869173991176546391754n.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: neelyrc on September 28, 2016, 12:27:38

The car looks fantastic!  Congratulations on a great job.
Ralph

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: mmizesko on September 29, 2016, 13:17:29

Thierry,

What a fantastic outcome for a difficult project.  You have my respect.

Mike Mizesko

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on November 14, 2016, 11:38:50

Hi all,
Just want to give you some feed back.
The car is 99% finished. Just needs the door handles and soft top.
I had a problem of hot engine for a long time, and when I drove her in the traffic jam at 35C in town, I got stuck.
In the end I found out that the timing was out by 20 degrees. Incredible. I think the previuos owner had adjusted the timing but took the wrong scale on the crankshaft. It is incredible that the engine was runing like that!!!!
However now the car is not hot and runs like a bullet!!!!!
(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_422040IMG3218.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=422040IMG3218.jpg)

(http://img4.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_61736314263966102088893624038869173991176546391754n.jpg) (http://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=61736314263966102088893624038869173991176546391754n.jpg)

Just need now to go and register the car.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: GGR on November 14, 2016, 17:26:31

What a fantastic job! You must feel quit relieved to have reached that point!. I really like the color combination, very classy!

Is that a Traction cabriolet in the background? If so is it a real one? What is its story?

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on June 06, 2017, 04:14:33

Now the car is registered and has a new soft top!

(https://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_228986IMG5332.jpg) (https://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=228986IMG5332.jpg)

(https://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_544275IMG53381.jpg) (https://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=544275IMG53381.jpg)

(https://img15.hostingpics.net/thumbs/mini_687185IMG5340.jpg) (https://www.hostingpics.net/viewer.php?id=687185IMG5340.jpg)

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: star63 on June 06, 2017, 07:38:25

Congratulations!

The car looks great and the top fits extremely well!

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: peterm on June 06, 2017, 12:50:15

Hint  White shoe polish will clean up those sidewalls nicely! 

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Thierry du Laos on June 08, 2017, 08:16:20

Thanks for the hint, I will try!

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: Shvegel on June 10, 2017, 22:50:46

I use Laquer thinner or Acetone on whitewalls.  Works great.

Title: Re: 280SL in Laos
Post by: cfm65@me.com on June 11, 2017, 03:57:13

Well done Thierry,
She is really looking great.
Regards
Chris
Cape Town