Which Lower Rear Panel is correct?

[RobSirg]

Guys,

In comparing my project car (1970 280SL) to my restored car (1969 280SL) I noticed that the lower rear panels are slightly different. The Project car tends to make a downturn (which I think matches the lower rear side panel) whereas my restored car curls under. (see below)

I'm fairly certain the project car has had repair work in the rear as I have non-matching tail lights.

My guess (and hope) is that the restored car is correct and the Project car is not. (IE: Lower rear panel should curl under and not finish with a small downturn towards the ground).

Appreciate your thoughts / comments :

Rob

[mmizesko]

Rob,

The 69 is correct.  It should curl under the car, with a couple of half moon cutouts for the drains.  If you need another, you can order a lower tail panel from K&K in Michigan here in the States ($250 or so), but you'll have to cut, weld, and paint.

Mike Mizesko
Columbus, OH

[RobSirg]

Thanks Mike,

That's what I thought. Yes, I did see that K&K have a half panel. The car will be stripped down soon - so I will see which way the panel shop wants to go with it - whether to weld a half panel or work with what I have.

Was wondering what those random looking half-moon cut outs were for. Thanks for the information.

Rob

[Jonny B]

Yup, I just looked at my 280 SL, and the panel curves under, has the two cutouts, and a nice row of spot welds for the entire length. The spot welds will be the tricky part.