Stamped Numbers on Block-Effect on Value

[centen@mac.com]

Hi,

I am new to the forum and looking for some advice. I am close to buying a 1970 280 SL. The car is in great shape and had a re-built motor. I have just learned that the engine block does not have any number stamped on it. The seller tells me that this was not uncommon due to warranty replacements etc.

I am concerned about what if any impact the lack of matching numbers may have on re-sale. The seller says no impact and that very few people ask or care about this on a 280 SL.

Any thoughts are appreciated greatly.

[mdsalemi]

I understand that at one time, one of the major engine rebuilders for MB engines in the USA used to grind off the engine serial numbers and stamp them with his own.  I can't say this is true for certain, but my restorer told me that story back when my car was being restored.  So, it rings true with what you heard as well. I also understand that he stopped the practice because people would frown upon it.

I'd me more concerned with who did the engine rebuild, and when, and current state of condition than a serial number on the casting.  Also, any papers to prove the rebuild?

[Garry]

There has been a lot of discussion on the importance on matching numbers in a Pagoda.  

I think the general consensus on this forum was that it is nice to have but not as important as some other makes. The reason for this is that the engine for a 280SL was the only engine size available for the car during that period, as is also the 250SL and 230SL for each period unlike a Mustang for instance that had lots of engine options for any given year, so matching the engine numbers to the data card becomes more important to ensure correct engine size to the particular car.

Having said that if you had two identical cars and one had matching numbers then obviously you would go with that one.  Does it add value, not a great deal unless a 230SL has a 280 engine in it then it might lose some value.

And there will probably be another rush of comments on does it or doesn't it add value.

Garry

[DaveB]

What the seller is saying sounds right according to previous posts on the issue. Garry's reasoning makes sense, I had not thought of it that way but it's correct, there were no engine options. Ditto on Michael's advice about checking the documentation, it's all too common to see ads touting "motor rebuilt prior to storage" or some such, without any evidence.

[Shvegel]

There are much better resources here than I but there were early and late versions of the 280 engine. Perhaps someone could give you identifying marks on the cylinder head for the late version?

[centen@mac.com]

Thanks for the quick response. You guys are great!!!

[twistedtree]

I though factory replacement short blocks came with no numbers?

[Bonnyboy]

My 69 280sl also has a replacement block.  It has a mercedes tag which has numbers on it but they refer only to the part number- European rebuilt engine for 280sl.  It doesn't seem to even phase the parts guys as it was very common.    Check the thread about replacement engines - some good explanations in there.

Ian in North Vancouver

[49er]

My block was replaced under my new car warranty by the mercedes dealer and no numbers are on the plate. I do have the work order for that safely tucked away for evidence:-)

John