Plastic Window Crank Instert for 280 SL

[Dan Dittmar]

Hello All

One of my plastic window crank inserts, that match the interior of my 280 SL, fell out and I have no clue where to find a replacement.  Any suggestions?

[J. Huber]

Hey Dan. What color are you after? I don't have any but bet some used ones are around somewhere. Or, it's kind of a long about way but SLS (in Germany) has them new for about 5 bucks I believe. Our US vendors may also have them readily available.

Ironically, I may be looking for one for an early style crank -- if anyone has one of those laying around... (unless Alfred, they were included?)...

James
63 230SL

[Dan Dittmar]

I am looking for red (My interior and door panels are red.  I think there is only one color red for the 1969 280 SL)

Dan

[Rolf]

Bud's Benz has the crank inserts. (230,early 250SL) $5.00 (from early 250,280SL) $10.00  They also have the crank handle, 230,early 250SL for 27.50

Rolf
1966 230SL Auto
1992 300D
1991 FLHS

[66andBlue]

Dan,
if Bud's doesn't have a red one buy one in a light color and paint it red. Many automotive stores sell spray paints to match almost any color. But first use a clear primer for plastics - such as Dupli-Color Adhesion Promoter - otherwise the new paint may develop crackles later on.
[Sorry James, no pads included].


Alfred
1966 blue 230SL automatic

[Douglas]

These window crank inserts are generic Mercedes, so the sedans (W114 & W108) from the era used them as well. You can find them anywhere Mercedes used interior parts are sold.

Keep in mind that there are two different (and incompatible) window crank insert styles for a 280 SL. One uses a "hook" to stay put while the other slides into place.

And beware of one last thing -- the Mercedes part you get today when you order it new from the dealer is junk. It's a textured piece of cheap plastic and doesn't even try to look like a nicely finished part.

As someone suggested, if you can't find a nice old one in the correct color, dye whatever old one you can find to match.

Douglas Kim
New York
USA

[Dan Dittmar]

Thanks very much all, for this great feedback.

Dan