Passenger outside rear view mirror

[Ed Riefstahl]

Greetings Pagoda friends,

For quite a while now I've been contemplating a passenger side rear view mirror for both my 230SL and my 280S. I have had several fusions in my neck and have very limited mobility. Consequently I can't turn my head to look back, so it's very difficult to back up my cars.

I've owned my 230SL for 21 years and my 280S for nearly as long. Neither have a passenger side mirror, making it difficult to park my cars.

The thought of drilling holes in the door makes me cringe. However I'm increasingly nervous when backing my cars up. I see the mirrors are available to purchase. I also suppose I could install a backup camera.

Does anyone know if passenger side mirrors were a factory option? Once I drill holes, I can't go back.

Just contemplating and looking for some suggestions.

Ed Riefstahl
Erie, PA

1966 230SL (Ms Magoo)
1970 280S (Miss Daisy)
1989 300SE (Majestic)
1999 BMW Z3 5 speed
1991 BMW 318I 5 Speed
1997 Toyota Paseo Convertible - Red 5 speed (have you ever seen one?)
1997 Ford Ranger step side (Mater)
2023 Mazda CX 5

[lreppond]

Option code 506 was for the passenger side mirror. 

I know exactly what you mean about drilling holes in your car.  My car lacks this mirror as well and I’ve toyed with the idea of installing one  I’ve been reluctant for the same reason.  What has held me back is that many claim that the mirror isn’t effective due to its placement.  I’d appreciate those who have one to let the rest of us know it’s effectiveness

[BobH]

I don't have a passenger mirror, the drivers mirror isn't exactly effective, not compared to modern cars, hence why i've never considered fitting one on the passenger side

If you do fit one, best position it to suit your driving position, ignore any dimensions you may have read, every driver probably needs it in a slightly different position, and you'll need the strengthening plate on the door shell, so not a quick job

You've considered a reversing camera, these can be wired or wireless, or you could think about a dash cam that can also be used as a reversing aid?  Best of both worlds then, dash cam in case of an accident plus help when reversing

Lots on the market

[rwmastel]

Here are a few of the many search results from "passenger mirror".

Some mirror usefulness links.
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=27392
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=27834

Convex mirrors!!
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=25615
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=3344
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=202

Some mirror mounting links.
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=13072
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=26900

What I get from reading through some of these and other threads is that, for the 280 style mirror:
- It should be mounted in the same relative place as the driver's side mirror.
- It should mount with a backing plate inside the door for structural rigidity.
- It should be useful.  Maybe have someone hold it and ensure the a-pillar does not block it.
- It can (and should?) have convex glass.
- It can increase wind noise.

[BobH]

Hello Ed, don't forget on your 230SL, there may be a strengthening plate already fitted from the factory in the door shell, all doors may have had them fitted, but it may be in the incorrect place, as the gooseneck mirror won't be effective in the factory position, i think it will be too close to the pillar and needs moving further back

[TJMart]

Option code 506 was for the passenger side mirror. 

I know exactly what you mean about drilling holes in your car.  My car lacks this mirror as well and I’ve toyed with the idea of installing one  I’ve been reluctant for the same reason.  What has held me back is that many claim that the mirror isn’t effective due to its placement.  I’d appreciate those who have one to let the rest of us know it’s effectiveness

Len,
I installed my passenger side mirror over twenty years ago. IMHO I think it gives the car a more balanced look with 2 mirrors especially with the top down I installed it on the door exactly in the same place as the driver side. It is extremely effective even though the mirror surface is smaller than todays mirrors.

[lreppond]

I agree about the symmetry you get with a passenger side mirror. IMHO it just looks right.  Glad to hear that you feel it’s useful as well.  I’m beginning to be convinced!

[rwmastel]

Hello Ed, don't forget on your 230SL, there may be a strengthening plate already fitted from the factory in the door shell, all doors may have had them fitted, but it may be in the incorrect place, as the gooseneck mirror won't be effective in the factory position, i think it will be too close to the pillar and needs moving further back

Correct!  For some reason, when reading through the search results I thought I should focus on 280SL mirror issues.  Yes, Ed has a 230SL and that does require the mirror to be mounted further away from the a-pillar than the driver's mirror.  There's a thread on that, even showing what needs cut inside the door.
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=26900

Naj from UK (RIP) had to move his passenger mirror.  Do it right the first time! 
https://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/naj/200552124024_MirLoc03.JPG

[Hans2012]

For what it is worth, I have a passenger mirror on both of my 1971's (made the same week in January) and find them helpful.  I feel that the mirror enhances the safety of the car when driving in the big city.  I also believe that having both mirrors adds a balance to the car, especially when viewed from the front.   In my case, both came from the motherland with them installed.

Give it thought. Obviously, a personal decision.   

Cheers
John

[rwmastel]

... on both of my 1971's (made the same week in January) ...

John,

It looks like you need to update your signature from just having one 280SL.

[zak]

I took the plunge and drilled the hole and installed a passenger side mirror on my late 250 sl.
It definitely helps my right rear visibility especially with the soft top up. I feel safer with it.
I agree with the symmetry with 2 as well.

Would you lose points in a judged concours for adding the passenger mirror                                                                                                                                                                                          
I have seen some clip on type rear view mirrors too.

When I was a kid I had a used 1968 Rover 2000TC sedan - bought for $400. I added 2 bullet mirrors - one on each front fender !
I thought it looked cool ! haha.

jz

[Norm]

For what it's worth.... I mounted a "goose neck" side mirror on the passenger's side to match the driver's side.  I like the looks but as a driver's aid it is useless unless I bend down and lean over to the passenger side.

[lagolag]

I have installed the passenger mirror after reading different forums.
The reinforcement is made for RHD cars and this position is not usable for a passenger side mirror, the mirror has to be placed furtur back to give a good view and the foot has to be slightly angled. I made a reinforcement bracket in alu. I made a template for the drilling and marked the hole positions, I can admit that I have thought a lot about drilling in my car but now its done and I’m very pleased with the result. Both holes are behind the factory reinforcement. Here are some pictures

[lagolag]

Missed pictures in my post.

[DavidAPease]

Ed,

Here's another data point:

Like Tony, I installed a passenger-side mirror more than 20 years ago, and like him, I used the symmetrical location to the driver's side.  I immediately installed convex lenses in these mirrors, and have been using them to good effect for more than 2 decades.  While it's true that the mirror is a bit close to the windshield surround, with the convex lens I don't find that a particular problem, and the matching mounting spots just looks right.  If I had this to do over, I would do exactly the same.

          -David

[dirkbalter]

I also went trough the mirror installation after restauration. Assuming I need the enforcement brackets, I bought them.
My doors had them and they are unused.
Anybody needs one, let me know. 

[johnk]

I also went trough the mirror installation after restauration. Assuming I need the enforcement brackets, I bought them.
My doors had them and they are unused.
Anybody needs one, let me know.

I did the same thing Dirk. I will bring my reinforcement to Pagodafeast for anyone who is there and wants it.

[Davek1]

I have a LHD 280sl in the UK and installed the passenger side mirror as it was suicide overtaking on the motorways.
I positioned mine exactly the same position as the drivers side door and used the factory installed strengthening plate and it works perfectly. Also gives the car a more balanced look. It was one of the best things I did.

[rwmastel]

I have a LHD 280sl in the UK and installed the passenger side mirror as it was suicide overtaking on the motorways.
I positioned mine exactly the same position as the drivers side door and used the factory installed strengthening plate and it works perfectly. Also gives the car a more balanced look. It was one of the best things I did.

Can't do that with the 230SL goose neck mirror.  Needs to be further to the rear.  See my post above showing Naj's adjustment.

[DavidAPease]

Can't do that with the 230SL goose neck mirror.

Sorry, Rodd, I have to disagree.  As I said in my earlier post, both Tony and I have done that on our 230SLs, and we're both happy with it.  As I also said, the convex lenses make a big difference.

         -David

[dirkbalter]

Sorry, Rodd, I have to disagree.  As I said in my earlier post, both Tony and I have done that on our 230SLs, and we're both happy with it.  As I also said, the convex lenses make a big difference.

         -David

David,
where did you buy the lenses? I am considering these as well?

[rwmastel]

David,

Maybe it's more about seating position?  I don't know, but Naj clearly felt it important to move his back.
https://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/naj/200552124024_MirLoc03.JPG

[DavidAPease]

Hi, Dirk,

This is what I bought 2 of from Authentic Classics; however, they are currently out of stock:

   https://www.authenticclassics.com/Convex-Mirror-Glass-for-Mercedes-190SL-230SL-250SL-p/auth-008946.htm

I see this seller on eBay who seems to have a stock of them for a little more money:

   https://www.ebay.com/itm/143907604803

            -David

[DavidAPease]

Rodd,

That's an interesting thought.  I drive with my seat back against the parcel shelf, so far back.

If I were in a position to take some photos I would, but I can't for at least several days. 

          -David

[rwmastel]

It must be partially seat position related.  Maybe physique/size also?  What do you think of that pic of Naj's car.  He must have really wanted to move it!  Some clearly want it further back than the support plate allows, so I guess it just comes down to the individual.  Just do it right the first time!!