Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => General Discussion => Topic started by: Joe on May 14, 2003, 21:23:40

Title: rubber rejuvenation
Post by: Joe on May 14, 2003, 21:23:40

My trunk mats are sort of brittle, and I'd like to restore their flexibility. Can anyone recommend a product to do this?
Joe

Title: Re: rubber rejuvenation
Post by: CarlG on May 15, 2003, 08:45:02

The best product I know of for rubber upkeep is 303.  You will find it in boat stores.  It should be used on all your rubber to keep it in shape, although I don't know if it will restore brittle mats, but give it a try.

1967 230sl (stick)

Title: Re: rubber rejuvenation
Post by: Cees Klumper on May 16, 2003, 16:17:00

AFAIK, the trunk mat is in one piece. You may be better off getting a new one, rather than trying to rejuvinate the old one.

Tip - oftentimes there is moisture underneath this mat. Check it from time to time, because this is a rust-prone area ...

Title: Re: rubber rejuvenation
Post by: Tom on May 16, 2003, 20:54:14

Joe,

I second the recommendation on 303-it is good stuff-no silicone and great UV protection.

If your mats are brittle, however, I am not aware of a product that will renew them so that they are flexible.  My car has a 2 piece mat-one very large mat and one small mat under the spare tire area.

Best,

Tom

Title: Re: rubber rejuvenation
Post by: Joe on May 24, 2003, 13:31:47

I was in the Texas hill country this week, and stopped in a marine shop. They never heard of 303. I'll have to check another place.
I saw two 113s: a nice light blue one with a young guy out on a beautiful day with his woman with the top down (the car!) and an absolutely gorgeous red 280sl that was parked in front of a shop.
Joe

Title: Re: rubber rejuvenation
Post by: W14 on May 24, 2003, 14:13:41

Joe, check out the RV Stores as well.

Will W14
1965 230SL 4spd
Victoria,BC

Title: Re: rubber rejuvenation
Post by: n/a on May 25, 2003, 07:36:45

Joe,
Check their website at: www.303-protectant.com. If I remember correctly they list their retailers.
I found it at a place that sells RV's. They had quite a few 303 products in their retail shop. The prodduct that you are looking for is call Aerospace Protectant. I also pick up a product that protects the soft top.
It is fairly expensive (~$19), but I used it on all the rubber including tires and found that they stay black through several washings. I probably only apply it to the tires once per month. The tires now look black, but not shiny, whic I prefer.

Regards,
Stan