Paint for 280sl

[n/a]

The shop that is currently repainting my 280sl (180G-Silver Grey) has no experience using Glasurit paints (original on this car). He uses the new DuPont series, but the test strip  they painted does not look like an exact match. Has anyone used DuPont, have any experience with it ? I have the feeling that they are not that "big" with color matching Any help would be appreciated.

[W113SL]

The European paint systems, like Sikkens, Glassurit and Spies Hecker all have excellent reputations on color integrity.

The original formulation for silver gray metallic, DB180 has been changed over the years, so I have been told by a Glassurit expert.  

Also it is very prone to fade, and the early clear coats yellowed with age.  It is reare that two DB180 cars side to side match that closely.  It is also almost impossible to touch up.

But if it were my money, I'd opt for Glassurit.

Pete Lesler

[Bob G ✝︎]

Read your post on repainting your SL orginal Silver DB 180. this color has a cast green in it it is not like the bright silver used after toward 1972. I agree with Peter & think you should stick with the orginal forumulations Glasurit. I know there is a page for their company where you can look up old paint codes and color charts. The important thing to remember is to stick with a whole system when you have your car repainted. All the components including the primer and sealer are designed to work together. The new epoxy clear or 2K as it is called is the best in the industry these newclears are much more protective when fully cured and are state of the art for the OEM maufactures.
 If I where to paint my SL I would use only the Glassurit system.
Sincerely
Bob Geco

[tobacco]

There is one superb place to check the original paint color on a W113 -- the inside of the glovebox door.  If it's original in there, you should see the precise tonal values and balance (not to mention the depth and lustre) you'll want throughout your newly painted car.

For what it's worth, I just returned from seeing the new Sikkens DB423 on my hardtop, and it almost brought tears to my eyes.  There aren't a whole lot of us who remember Tabakbraun when it was fresh from the factory -- without the red/orange that invariably leached out -- but it's one beautiful color.  I'm told the new paint chemistry will hold this color true for years.

Good luck to to you.


'71 Tobacco/Cognac 280 SL #22375

[n/a]

DuPont has now advised me that they do not have any formula for 180G in their two stage (metallic) paint. The only manufacturer that does evidently is Glasurit, but they and my paint shop tell me that without experience using Glasurit, neither will guarantee the results. Any ideas from anyone that has painted, 180G using DuPont or Glasurit?? I could probably use the advice of a restoration shop ? Help...