Grille Assembly

[MikeL43]

I previously posted my experience with some redneck who tried to cross three lanes of traffic in front of me which resulted in what I thought was relatively minor front end damage until I began trying to find replacement parts.  My body shop is currently at a standstill until they can find a new MB OEM Grille Assembly.  The car has been in the shop for quite a while and the repairs are nearing completion except for the Grille Assembly.  MB USA has it on back order and my body shop is trying to get an estimate from MB in Germany as to when a new one will be available.  My car is a very late 250 SL if that makes any difference. 
Does anyone know where I can get an OEM grille for this car?  If so please e-mail me at mblunsfordsr@yahoo.com.  Thanks to the forum for many helpful suggestions before I got the car set up as a great daily driver, I still can't believe how stupid some drivers can be.  Thankfully the insurance will cover the repairs (hopefully).   

[Jordan]

Mike, both Buds Benz (www.budsbenz.com) and Authentic Classics (www.authenticclassics.com) carry the complete grill as well as parts.  Buds is cheaper and they state it is an original MB part.  I'm sure you can find others as well.

[rjmarco]

My experience with this goes back a few years.  I researched replacement grills from both Bud's Benz and the MBZ Classics Center and I went with the latter even though more expensive.  At the time, what was available from Bud's Benz was a plastic replica of the original metal grill.  It looked good generally but I preferred to go with the OEM version from Mercedes. 

Regards,

Rich

[Jordan]

Rick, I think we are referring to two different things.  I was referring to the chrome grille assembly, with the MB star front and centre.  I think you are referring to the black grille behind the chrome part because I can't see the chrome pieces being made of plastic.  I may have misunderstood Mikes request.

[rjmarco]

Sorry. Yes, I was referring to the black grille. 

Rich

[Shvegel]

I doubt the listed vendors carry one in stock but simply order from Mercedes when they get an order for one.  Have you tried getting ahold of Tom Hanson at the Mercedes Classic Center?

[enriquegarcia]

These frequently turn up on eBay. Currently there are two complete brand new OEM assemblies, one for about $3800 and one for about $4800 and a used one requiring some work for about $1400. There are also several listings for just the surround, just the star, just the barrel, just the left or right wings, etc. Check eBay/motors/car & truck parts/W113/grille. Good luck!

[doitwright]

As you are probably aware there are reproduction versions of the surround. I have read that they do not fit or look correct. Even minor repairs and rechroming a grille can be a challenge. Best advice is to be patient seek out a new one and get from the Classic Center for piece of mind.

[MikeL43]

Thanks for all of the suggestions.  I am looking for a complete grille assembly as the guy who caused the crash was traveling perpendicularly to me and ripped the grille,bumper and drivers fender away from the car.  t wasn't a hard hit but the angle of his travel caused more damage than it otherwise would have.  Buds Benz doesn't have an original grille, MBUSA said they are on back order in the US and are checking with Germany to see when (if) one will be available.  Since I want this job done right with original parts I am willing to wait unless MB has stopped making them.