what to buy from mercedes dealer for full restoration

[johnk]

I am preparing to start a full restoration of my 280sl next fall. I have a one time 15% off coupon from my local dealer to use up by January 31. I understand its best to get the original radiator hoses from mercedes.  what else would this group recommend? All weather stripping or anything else? rebuilt alternator or other components?

Thanks for your help!

[Garry]

Firstly remember that Members get discounts from quite a few of our suppliers like Buds and Classic Mercedes Centre so make sure you ask if a discount applies and check prices before committing to a local dealer. Metal trim parts and panels are a whole lot cheaper from other than MB and the same applies to interior trim and tops.

Having said that, some things that I would buy OEM are most rubbers like doors, trunk etc including windscreen rubber seal if you are replacing it. Hoses and belts are nice to have, as are correct plug wires.  The rest really depends on what you need in the way of ancillary equipment needing replacement or overhaul in the engine bay.

As I said at the start make sure you compare prices as there can be big differences depending on where they come from.  eBay does not tend to be that good now. 

I am sure there are plenty of others that will suggest items as well.

Garry

[mmizesko]

Windshield and trunk weatherstripping for sure.  Thrust piece that goes where oil pump/tach timing gear is in engine (where tach cable connects, important to change), bushing under brake pedal stop light switch if you have a "clunk" when you release the pedal (common problem). New breather tube to intake "L" tube if you need it, and "L" sleeve.  Engine seals, water pumps, Flex disks, motor/tranny mounts, and Power steering seals you can get from autohaus AZ at a good price.  Side moldings are extremely expensive, and you can probably find them via ebay or people on this site.  The stainless screws and clips are best found through experienced vendors on this site.  I had luck with Dave Gallon in California, who can get everything a dealer can get, at substantially lower prices.  I don't want to slight any other vendors on this site, so you may want to look them up as well. Tom at the Classic Center can get you things that no one else can.  Tach and Speedo refurbs at tachometer.com in Austin,  Becker Autosound for all things radio in NJ.  Be careful of side molding rubber.  You may have to call the classic center for this, as you have to order it by the meter, and the dealer distribution network only sells it in 1 meter lengths.  The doors are more than 1 meter, so it will be too short.  Tom can help you.

Mike Mizesko
Columbus, OH

[Rolf-Dieter ✝︎]

I like to second what Mike said "Tom at the Classic Center can get you things that no one else can." also if you let him have your VIN number he will e-mail you a Data Card for your car.

Example "I purchased a chrome ring that goes around the ignision key from a vendor here and got a used pitted one for $50- plus shipping" I was very disapointed when I unpacked it. Later when I talked to Tom about other parts I mentioned this to him he said "My price for a new one is $17- plus shipping" Naturally I included one with other parts I ordered that day.

Call Tom he can help you out fine.

BTW. if you need a pitted used chrome ring around your ignision key I let you have the one I have for free

[dpreston Virginia]

I had the same experience as Rolf. Looking all over for parts. End up with junk then called Tom and paid less for perfect new stuff. Call Tom at the Classic center then go from there!!!!!

[johnk]

Thanks everyone. This is extremely helpful.  Looks like I may include all of the rubber stripping/seals in my order, but only after checking the prices elsewhere.