Matching numbers to chassis

[Arjun]

Do the numbers of each panel (eg hood)have to match the chassis number.

I am looking at a 67 250sl.  The number stamped under the hood 036 does not match the vin number. I am told by the seller that this practice of matching numbers did not exist during those years.

I am a little concerned due to the fact that the hood is not completely flush on one side with the rest of the car. The difference is slight but noticable.

[Douglas]

The number you're refering to is not connected to the VIN. That's the aufbau number. It's a special body panel number that's indicated on a few panels and on the plate in the engine compartment by the brake booster (along with the paint code and a few other options). It's the last series of numbers on that plate.

Chances are, if the hood has a number, it's either original or a used original hood from another SL. The replacement hoods don't have a number on them.

Douglas Kim
New York, NY
280 SL #016220

[rwmastel]

This number on the hood should also be found:
- on the data plate by the brake booster
- on the underside of the soft top boot lid (far left side)
- on the underside of the hard top, below rear window

If these 4 places all match, then you have a "numbers matching" car.

If the hood is the correct number, then accident damage/repair is to blame for the hood misalignment.  The aluminum parts (hood, doors, etc.) were hand fitted and these days not everyone has the knowledge or experience to do this properly.

Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both  tops
1994 E420

[Douglas]

Here's a good explanation and pix:

http://www.motoringinvestments.com/RestoLog.htm

Douglas Kim
New York, NY
280 SL #016220