Newbie in HK needs help on restoration

[Eryck]

Hello. I just bought a 65 230sl last week here in Hong Kong. Don't know any owners in HK at all so I feel a bit lonely, if not for this great Forum. Looking to restore the car so will probably post questions for advice from time to time.

First one: The bumpers are rusted. Not bad, just surface rust but definitely need work. Question is: Should I try to get them re-chromed? Or should I buy new MB parts? Or should I buy the reproductions?

What would make sense economically? Is there a big difference between the original MB part and repro's? e.g. strength and safety etc?  How can I tell if my bumpers are original or repro's?

Thank you all in advance for your advice.

[Raymond]

Have you priced bumpers?  I don't know what condition the rest of your car is in, but how deep are your pockets?  If you need a lot of OEM parts for a Concours restoration, then be ready to help with Germany's balance of trade.  But if you want a pretty car for frequent driving, then the re-pro's should be fine.  I'm planning to go the re-chrome route for some of the smaller trim pieces on mine, but I don't need bumpers.  

Good luck and welcom to the group!

Ray
'68 280SL 4-spd Coupe

[Eryck]

Thanks for the advice. I will try to get some quotes. A nice driver will do for now I think.  Otherwise, it'll become a bottomless pit!  I will also check out the re-chrome option.

[jeffc280sl]

Hello Eryck,

I recently had most of the chrome on my 1970 280SL re-chromed.  Bumpers are a great candidate for this.  I'd go that way.  Smaller pieces on the car will have tolerance issues when re-chromed.

Jeff C.
1970 280SL 4-speed

[erickmarciano]

send them to mainland China for all the chrome it is the cheapest place on earth to chrome


1971 280sl
1962 VW
1954 Allstate vespa
1958 gs150 vespa
1962 gs160 vespa

[Ben]

quote:send them to mainland China for all the chrome it is the cheapest place on earth to chrome

......any contact info or should we just send them in a box marked "China....Please re-chrome "     (Sorry rudeness prevails thius morning)

Regards,
Ben in Ireland.
'64 230SL 4sp.

[Eryck]

Thanks for all the advice. I will check out the re-chroming prices in China since I am so close!  Will let you all know the pricing once I get them.

BTW, for your information, I just received some quotes for new OEM bumpers (from the US). Front: US$820 each (I think we need to X 2) and the backs are US$610 each (also X 2 I think)!

I think I'll re-chrome!

[Cees Klumper]

Hi Eryck, yes you need two of the front ones, and two of the rear ones. Still, these prices are not so bad considering these should last maybe 40 years? and the quality is bound to be very good. You may get a decent price for your used ones on Ebay or somewhere else, provided they are in OK shape.

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic

[rwmastel]

Eryck,

Hi.  Since you don't have many W113's in HK to use as a reference, and probably don't have many restoration experts with experience focused on the W113, I suggest you take the initiative to acquire reading material.

http://www.sl113.org/publications.asp

The more you know, the better you will treat your car.

I hope you enjoy your SL!

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

[rob walker]

Eryck, I live in Asia and travel to Honk Kong on a very frequent basis, I will send you a note next time I am over, would love to meet and see your new aquisition.
Are there many 113s in HK?
Rob

Rob Walker

[Ben]

Millers are doing good deals on repros at the moment. Maybe cheaper than re-chroming but not sure of the quality. I imagine its good as they are very reputable but does anyone know for sure ??

Regards,
Ben in Ireland.
'64 230SL 4sp.

[Eryck]

Hi Rob.  Thanks for the note. Yes, please let me know when you are next in HK. There are not many 113's in HK.  I have seen 4 in the past year.  I might meet up with more as I just joined the HK Classic Car Club.  And hopefully by the time you get over here, my care would be in a much better condition.  Good to know you. Happy holidays.

quote:Originally posted by rob walker

Eryck, I live in Asia and travel to Honk Kong on a very frequent basis, I will send you a note next time I am over, would love to meet and see your new aquisition.
Are there many 113s in HK?
Rob

Rob Walker

1965 230 SL White Manual
Hong Kong