Author Topic: Grille star  (Read 4011 times)

280sl1968

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Grille star
« on: July 07, 2010, 04:17:38 »
I noticed that the grille star on my SL appears to  have been carefully glued in place at each of the three points. It is only noticeable up close, but I heard from someone who deals in parts from broken up classics that these broken grille stars are very common.

While I can see that the three points of the star are going to be inherently weak bits of metal, are broken ones really that common? I can't see how they could break other than in a collision, someone trying to force the emblem off, or plain old corrosion.

It's no big deal, but if i come across an original intact star and surround I will probably replace it. Just curious that's all.


David

stickandrudderman

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Re: Grille star
« Reply #1 on: July 07, 2010, 07:03:44 »
Lots of them have been broken and repaired in this way, some more effectively than others!
The stars are very expensive.....

tel76

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Re: Grille star
« Reply #2 on: July 07, 2010, 07:39:24 »
When i purchased my project/rust bucket i was pleased to see that the grille star was intact,the feelling of elation was short lived.
When i removed the grille assy: the star fell out,someone had glued in the star from a 107 model. The first of many bodge ups.
It is a good fit and if someone cannot get a good replacement or afford MB prices it is a good temporary measure.
« Last Edit: July 07, 2010, 07:43:49 by tel76 »
Eric

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Re: Grille star
« Reply #3 on: July 07, 2010, 16:31:40 »
Hello David,      check out this post of mine. It describes how I made an acceptable repair, in lieu of buying a new star.

http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=11408.msg76429#msg76429

Regards, larry in CA
Larry Hemstreet  in  N. Cal.

1966  230SL  (restored) Met. Anthracite w/ Maroon leather
1981  300TD-T (Concours condition, 86K, GETRAG 5sp.)
1982  300TD-T (parted out)
1986  560SEC (totaled)
1991  300TE (gifted)
1998  E320 (sold)
2004  E320 wagon (gifted)
2008  CLK550 Cabriolet

280sl1968

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Re: Grille star
« Reply #4 on: July 08, 2010, 03:35:48 »
Nice fix Larry.

I know I shouldn't be, considering the inherent deign flaw of having the star anchored by just the three points, but I'm still somewhat surprised that so many of these ended up broken. Other than accidents or plain old vandalism, I wonder what might cause them to break? Overzealous washing and polishing maybe?



David