I use the term "113" here because I don't know the specific models that these parts belong on...I noticed them in several cars but they might all have been 280 SL's...the replies will set us straight as to which models have these items...regret this failing on my part but I don't have one of each model in the garage at this time
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Finding parts for 113’s can be difficult without part numbers. MB parts departments and resellers have spent hours looking for some part that I suddenly decide I must have. So here’s a little information to save some time (and for one part, possibly save some $$$).
Rubber PlugsSome late? 113’s should have a rubber plug in the three holes on each side of the engine compartment, inside fender wall, just below the line of spot welds. [this may be for later cars only so don't panic if the holes are not there.] The MB parts list calls it an “Expansion Plug” with six required per car. Since there are a total of six holes on along the sides, it appears that the same holes on the top inside of the grill may not require plugs. The part number is A113 987 00 44, about 70 cents each. Pete Lesler ("W113SL" on this Forum) also has these plugs available and Pete’s are somewhat nicer in finish although unless it’s Sherlock Holmes, the typical engine compartment “inspector” won’t notice the difference. Photo shows one plug near a shiny brown fender of a late 280 SL.
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Rubber BumpersAll? 113’s should have three 2 inch long rubber bumpers on the weld seam at the top rear of the engine compartment. Each bumper is positioned where one of the hood reinforcements hits the top of the seam when the hood is closed; about 1/3 from one side, the center, and 1/3 in from the other side. The trick to ordering these “bumpers” (not sure of the official part name) is that they do not appear on 113 parts lists; must search for 190 SL parts. Regret that I do not have a part number but mine were found under 190 SL parts. The photo shows two of the three in place, one is in the shadow.
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Locking Gas Cap113’s have an “official” MB locking gas cap, part number A 000 471 47 30. There is another cap with number A 000 471 20 30. Both caps are virtually identical but one is about half the cost of the other. Now that I have your attention, here are the details.
The keys to the “official” 113 cap (47 30) have black plastic tops similar to original 280 SL? keys. The keys to the “other” cap (20 30) are all metal with a rounded rectangular shape. This is the major difference in the two caps, certainly not enough to justify a List Price for the “official” cap of $165, while the ”other” cap lists for about $111. With typical discounts, the cost of the “official” would be about $130, the “other” about $85. Both caps fit exactly, have the same bright chrome finish with MB star and two keys.
If you order a locking gas cap for a "W113" car, most MB dealers will supply the more expensive "official" cap since that is what is listed on the MB parts database (except Tom Hanson, Caliber Motors who knows about the "other" cap). When you order a cap, be sure to give the part number of the cap you prefer. And since key design is the major difference, I believe the less expensive cap can be used on any W113 car.
I recently bought the “other" cap and am most pleased with not only how it looks but how fat my wallet is.
Caution: be sure to turn any locking gas cap about half way around until you feel it hit the stop. Sad tales of lost caps that seemed tight but were not. (Photo not available)
Cockpit CoverI suspect our California friends know about this but some of us East Coasters are a little slow about some things. I am pleased with a recent purchase of a Cockpit Cover for the 113; covers the windshield and entire interior. It's prevented from “walking away” by three canvas straps that fit into the groove in the trunk seal. When the trunk is closed on the three straps, the cover is not easily removed by a jealous passerby.
Cover protects against sun, light rain, bird droppings and similar catastrophes; made of the same material as the full car cover. Held in place by Velcro straps around the mirror and door handle, wipers hold the cover to the windshield; light gray printed with the MB Star and “Mercedes Benz” on one side. Might have to ask for the cover as an R107 part, it’s not listed or sold for 113 cars but it fits 113's perfectly. About $50 from MB, Part MB Q-6-60-0053. Believe they are made for MB by California Car Cover. Photo shows the cover on an R107.
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Sorry if I went on a bit about this, hope it's useful. Perhaps others can add more information and more items.
Richard M
