Kangol magnets

[tdun824259]

I have a 1971 280 SL with kangol seat belts.  The magnetic buckle has lost its "magnitism".  Is anyone familiar with rejuvenating these magnets or can they be replaced with new ones?  Any suggestions would be helpful.
Thanks
tdun824259
71 280 SL

[Richard Madison]

Seems unusual for the magnetism in a Kangol belt to weaken. My belts and all the others I've seen over the years have worked just fine.

Is it possible that there is something on the magnet or the other end  that can be cleaned off? As a test, does the magnet pick up a bunch of paper clips?

Finally, maybe a little silly, but is it possible that the belt is not being mated correctly...maybe backwards or upside down?

To answer the original question, a small magnet can sometimes be revitalized by attaching it to a powerful, larger magnet for a few hours.

I don't think replacement magnets are available. Last (and expensive) solution is a new set of belts.

Richard M

[tdun824259]

Richard,

Thanks for the insight.  I'm not sure how you could even attach the belt backwards but I'll play with that and see.  If that doesn't work I will try and mate the small magnet to a larger one.  It appears that the magnet easily comes out of the plastic housing held in by two small retaining clips.  I truly was hoping someone made replacements.  I'm surprised no one else has this problem!
Thanks

tdun824259
71 280 SL