What is this?

[69280sl]

The attached picture is of the tail light panel from inside the trunk. Can anyone tell me the purpose of the "keeper" just below the access panel. I would have thought for the wheel bolt wrench but that fits nicely in the spare tire cover.

Could this be for the ratchet handle for the early jack?

Thanks

Gus

[Naj ✝︎]

Clip for the luggage tie-down belt   

Naj

[69280sl]

Thanks Naj. I'm not surprised that you knew.

Gus

[mbzse]

The attached picture is of the tail light panel from inside the trunk. Can anyone tell me the purpose of the "keeper" just below the access panel?

Naj is right (as always).   If you look up under the forward part of the luggage compartment, in front of the trunk lid, you will find a second "keeper" there, for the other end of the leather strap. Similar anchor points for straps are found in the luggage compartments of M-B Sedans of the era
/Hans in Sweden