Pagoda SL Group
W113 Pagoda SL Group => General Discussion => Topic started by: JPMOSE on February 12, 2006, 12:40:40
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I thought I would start an interesting thread (hopefully not repeating a prior one). This will be a list of Pagoda idiosyncrasies and/or unique features (or flaws) that make our cars more interesting and special. :mrgreen:
The only "rule" that I suggest: If a discussion of any listed item is desired....start a new thread on that particular subject. This way it will not get off course.
OK...so let me start with a few:
1) The engine won't shut off if the brake reservoir is low or empty (at least on late 250SL and 280SL).
2) The trunk light only works when the light switch is on Park or Headlight.
3) The tail light assembly has a clear window that helps illuminate the trunk when the tail light or clearance light is on.
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
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JP, my trunk light works without having the parking lights or headlights on.
1969 280sl 5 spd
Gainesville, Fl.
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<<1) The engine won't shut off if the brake reservoir is low or empty (at least on late 250SL and 280SL).>>
If there was ever a idiosyn on brake fluid monitoring, it was the circuitry fault of low res fluid on sensed fluid circuits having the possibility of an ignition shunt circuit that would be caused with both fluid low/door open condition...
Surprising they overlooked this simple circuit fault, but they did...
Takes an in series diode to cure the problem........
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JP, my trunk light works just fine without having any lights switched on, but it would be logical to energize the circuit only when the lights are needed.
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The steering wheel is slightly offset (to ease ingress and egress).
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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Regarding the trunk light, I guess this applied to earlier Pagodas:
http://index.php?topic=314,light
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
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I like the way the trunk closes if you open the soft top compartment lid ............thats cool !
An idiosyncracie is the fact that they never swopped over the parking brake for Right Hand Drive cars making it very awkward to operate the brake in traffic !
Regards,
Ben in Ireland.
'64 230SL 4sp.
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But Ben..you're not supposed to use it in traffic...it's a "parking brake"....I guess it does make it harder to get to the girl when "parking" though :D
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quote:
But Ben..you're not supposed to use it in traffic...it's a "parking brake"....I guess it does make it harder to get to the girl when "parking" though
........yeah true, but in our version of the rules of the road you are supposed to apply it ANYTIME you come to a stop !
Yeah I know............but still back in the 60's these were expensive cars and I would have been somewhat annoyed upon realising that they had made abeatiful car but saved a few quid by keeping that lever where it is on LHD cars !
I only use mine for parking so it's not an issue.........just an idiosyncrasy !
Regards,
Ben in Ireland.
'64 230SL 4sp.
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quote:
Originally posted by A Dalton
<<1) The engine won't shut off if the brake reservoir is low or empty (at least on late 250SL and 280SL).>>
If there was ever a idiosyn on brake fluid monitoring, it was the circuitry fault of low res fluid on sensed fluid circuits having the possibility of an ignition shunt circuit that would be caused with both fluid low/door open condition...
Surprising they overlooked this simple circuit fault, but they did...
Takes an in series diode to cure the problem........
A crazy low brake fluid warning device??
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I like how the map light turns on automatically when you open the glovebox and illuminates anything on the lap of the passenger. Very clever.
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One feature I love is the responsive steering & very tight turning radius.
It's great when I get lost on winding mountain roads.
I am surprised I have never heard any 113 owners mention
the tight turn radius!
Happy motoring!
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Other particulars:
- the heavy nose dive when braking hard
- on automatics, the first time you drive one you think the top gear is missing (very high revs and it starts in 2nd)
- the relatively low position of the fuel cap
- the screeeeeching sound that will eminate from the tach (sooner or later)
- the way the gauge dials will fog up on the inside over the years
- the heavy 'click' from the original clock from time to time (pun intended)
- the trouble light outlet on the firewall ("is that where they plug the diagnostic computer into?")
there has to be more!?
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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On the subject of light:
The "fibre-optic" light in the blower switch that illuminates to indicate "on" (when lights are on). And the transmission of light through the original plastic, colored heater and air controls.
Seems like everyone comments on how dim all of the dash lighting in, but I prefer to think of it as "subtle".
Best,
g
'64 230sl, fully sorted out...ooops, spoke too soon
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quote:
One feature I love is the responsive steering & very tight turning radius.
It's great when I get lost on winding mountain roads.
I am surprised I have never heard any 113 owners mention
the tight turn radius!
.........yeah thats true. Folk are always amazed when I swing into a "cul de sac" rather quickly, spin around and drive off without having to do a three point turn !
Regards,
Ben in Ireland.
'64 230SL 4sp.
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I thought of two more (although they may not be exclusive to Pagodas) items.
1) The small indent on the sheet metal, located on the inner side of headlight housing. This is often eliminated when a car is repainted.
2) The cloth strap to prevent the hood opening too far (isn't this Pagoda unique?).
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
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The overall solid feel to the car....................
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Ok. Here's a couple more:
1. The way the sound of the horn seems to catch folks off-guard. It is not only unique but way different from most honks out there.
2. The way some of us have to use a metric conversion calculator just to figure out what kind of mileage we's a gettin'...
3. The way we get that frozen grin on our face when we take a winter drive with the top down... (just did it -- still smilin'! 8) )
James
63 230SL
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Just thought I'd revive an old thread of mine for fun!
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
1987 560SL
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Head light switch.
Ever try and turn the lights on while driving?
Dan Caron's
SL Barn
benzbarn@ebtech.net
slbarn.mbz.org
1 877 661 6061
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quote:
Originally posted by JPMOSE
1) The engine won't shut off if the brake reservoir is low or empty (at least on late 250SL and 280SL).
This type of problem was not unique to the pagoda sl's. Some AMC and Chrysler products made in the 70's would remain running (in sync with the flashers) if the turn signals were on, the brake pedal was held down and the 4way flashers were all on at the same time.
66 230sl
113-042-10-014715
904/396 blue, Ivory Tex
condition: not-as-rusty-as-before-bucket
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quote:
Originally posted by al_lieffring
This type of problem was not unique to the pagoda sl's. Some AMC and Chrysler products made in the 70's would remain running (in sync with the flashers) if the turn signals were on, the brake pedal was held down and the 4way flashers were all on at the same time.
So it looks like there was some cooperation between Daimler-Benz and Chrysler long before the merger?!
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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quote:
So it looks like there was some cooperation between Daimler-Benz and Chrysler long before the merger?!
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
'Round these parts it is referred to as a "takeover". The correct pronunciation in German of DaimlerChrysler is "DAIMLER".
Michael Salemi
1969 280SL
Signal Red w/Black Leather
Restored
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How about hte most obvious "signature" feature of our beloved steeds: The lovely idiosyncratic "Pagoda Hardtop!" This feature both increases outward visiblilty and aerodynamic drag. Ir reduces interior airflow and wind noise at speed. It was initially derided as ungainly and now is hailed as the most elegant attribute of any sports car of the era. How more gloriously idiosyncratic can any aspect of a W113 possibly be than the hardtop itself? (Unless, of course, one considers the "California Coupe," a nominally closed car intended for use in the nearly year-round perfect climate of southern California!)
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
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Mike...it's funny how the top was overlooked in this thread. Yet, it is the most obvious feature that is distinctive (hence the name "Pagoda")!
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
1987 560SL
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Cees mentioned the automatic starting in 2nd gear; this is quite peculiar in my opinion, but you can't talk about that without talking about the extremely low 1st gear; were the designers thinking everyone with an automatic was going to tow a caravan in the Alps?
I have never even come remotely close to using the 1st gear, practically speaking--it is all but useless. The only time I have used it is to verify that it is there and works!
Michael Salemi
1969 280SL
Signal Red w/Black Leather
Restored
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What a great and informative thread for new owners - from the "where is 4th gear?" question to the "what is that screeching noise from behind the tach?" question, I'm eating this up.
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The window cranks turn the opposite direction of most other cars with hand cranked windows.
66 230sl
113-042-10-014715
904/396 blue, Ivory Tex
condition: not-as-rusty-as-before-bucket
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The tight turn radius.
quote:
Originally posted by jaxxonia
One feature I love is the responsive steering & very tight turning radius.
It's great when I get lost on winding mountain roads.
I am surprised I have never heard any 113 owners mention
the tight turn radius!
Happy motoring!
Nick350
r107 SL red
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Not to let the cat out of the bag, but I love the third seat convenience.
When using the 280SL as an everyday driver I had this big bulky pull out chassis radio-remember those? I always lifted the seat bottom and put the radio into the compartment and put the seat back down. Presto a neat hiding place for the radio rather than carry it around with me.
Now I have a bench seat, but do have a 3rd seat in my parts collection.
Walter
1967 220SL-diesel
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The unique cable and switch for starting only in park/neutral and powering the reverse lights. I don't think any other Mercedes of the time used this configuration.
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
1987 560SL
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The way I have to give the dash a little tap to get the left light behind the heater levers to come on at night.
Maybe that's just mine.
Oh well.... And, having to move the clock forward a few mintes....
Bill Simaz
'66 230sl
Back on the Road
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I have never seen another car with a bleeder screw to eliminate air from the cooling system. I do not believe it is on all of our cars. On mine it is on top of the thermostat.
Ted 1969 280SL
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Unique headlight system & headlight switch the controls parking lights for the right and left side in dark areas.
Bob Geco
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The delicate window wipers that operate in a "clapping hands" pattern.
Douglas Kim
New York
USA
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The badly positioned alarm swich behind the steering wheel as if the designers have thought that a pagoda driver never will need the swich.
Gerard Wuisman
1970 280sl
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Okay, now that we're on the subject of less-than-ideal details..... what about that annoying screw that sits above the ventilation levers? It's screwed into the leather (or Tex) and, to my eye, has always stuck out like a sore thumb.
Douglas Kim
New York
USA
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Douglas,
can you post a picture please? I don't remember it, but since I am redoing the interior perhaps I'll eliminate that screw if it is possible.
Thanks!
Alfred
1966 blue 230SL automatic
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Here's the best shot I could find:
Download Attachment: (http://images/icon_paperclip.gif) dash1.jpg (http://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/douglas/2007116131445_dash1.jpg)
53.18 KB
It's the little bugger above the ventilation levers. (It's almost as if the upward arrow was designed to point it out!)
Douglas Kim
New York
USA
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That screw can be painted the color of the dash covering. But yeah, it does bugger me too.
Another thing that bugs me is the glovebox lid. It is nearly impossible to get it aligned right with the rest of the dash. Too many things to adjust to make it all flow seamlessly. And how they seem to loose the tightness after a while. Then there are the two small forks and spring that seem to want to pop out when they want.
Walter
1967 220SL-diesel-crooked glovebox door.
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Well, I just had to take a drive to see what the heck you guys were talking about...
Mine has a most likely incorrect but stainless screw. I dont really see it unless I bend down. It could also be that the 230 with its more squared-off dash covering hides it a little more than the more puffy rounded ones on 280s...
James
63 230SL
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Aah .. that screw. Thanks for the picture, Douglas.
I wonder whether it is necessary.
Alfred
1966 blue 230SL automatic
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Never even noticed there was a screw! :mrgreen:
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
1987 560SL
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Never saw that screw on my 280 either!
It seems like every day there is something new to discover about this little car, already for years and years ...
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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OK since we're pointing out the little things that we "think" could have been better designed, how about the gas tank/filler neck setup. I don't know if I've ever completely filled my tank, cause she's a little too heavy to pick up and burp. Certainly can't get an attendant to patiently slow fill her, so I almost always fill it myself and with such a little tank (early style) you need every drop you can squeeze in there to make it to the next gas station :D
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Alfred,
I put new leather on my dash pieces about two years ago. The molded upper dash piece that this little screw goes through fits so tight that the screw isn't necessary. I didn't like the looks of the screw either so I never put it back in and nothing rattles. There are obviously other dash screws, but I suppose because of position this one bothered me about as much as the forward window pillar screws. Unfortunately, they had to be in place so I just don't look at them!
Tim Dunagan
1971 280 SL
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I also love the way the soft top box lid closes the boot/trunk if you lift it when the boot/trunk is open !
Regards,
Ben in Ireland.
'64 230SL 4sp.
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I was reminded of one just this evening...
How about the way the driver's door seems like its about 8 feet long as you open it in a parking space with a car parked right next door...It just keeps opening and opening and you are sure its going to bang that car!
James
63 230SL
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Just learned something interesting. And please pardon my ignorance, no insult intended.
The ignition key for the right hand drive cars is on the left side of the steering column. Thought they were the same all over, on the right side.
Also the hood/bonnet release cable is on the left side too. So you basically have to operate both doors to get out/in from the drivers seat and then open the passengers to open the hood/bonnet. Strange!
How do you Right sided drivers deal with that?
Walter
1967 220SL-diesel
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I wonder why the '6' on the odometer looks like it was made with a different font than the rest of the numbers. It's skinnier than the rest of the numbers. But only the '6' ??
Bill Simaz
'66 230sl
Back on the Road
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quote:
Originally posted by bsimaz
I wonder why the '6' on the odometer looks like it was made with a different font than the rest of the numbers. It's skinnier than the rest of the numbers. But only the '6' ??
I've not openeded an odometer, but here's my theory:
There is a small notch beside the "6". When the "6" is in the back, the "0" is in the front. It's at this point that the notch rolls around the back and grabs the mechanisim and turns the next number over.
Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both tops
1994 E420
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MB never shifted the hand brake to the RHS of the transmission tunnel on RHD cars.
It is a very long reach to operate the hand brake.
It was one reason I gravitated to an auto.
Walter,
I open the bonnet from the inside by leaning across the console or by reaching down through the LHS window.
Bob Smith (Brisbane,Australia)
RHD,1967 early 250 SL, auto
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This is fun to read through. I always wondered why I seem to start moving the window crank in the "wrong" direction.
I also love the "switch" for the high beams, maybe not that unique, but I've never seen another one like it.
Amanda
1966 230SL
Manual
Red/Tan
Los Angeles
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Don't forget the way your points get fried within minutes if you happen to leave the key turned to the right when the engine is off.
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I find it amazing how you can go to the garage to spend a few hundred quid and it costs you thousands...that always make me laugh.
Nick350
r107 SL red
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I may not be old enough but I think the way the spare tire is stowed in the trunk, with its cover and the button top storage compartment is quite unique.
What about the heavy action required to flip forward the seat backs in order to access the parcel shelf behind the front buckets?
The turn signal stalk that does not stay in a locked position on right turns and certainly does not automatically return to its neutral spot after the return of the steering wheel spin. A very expensive part that does not last long.
Aluminum hood, trunk lid and doors but not the removable hardtop that weighs in just a tad beyond what 2 young men can lift comfortably.
Oh there must be more to these wonderful handbuilt machines !!
Sam
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I love the primitive connecting bushings on the tranny--just look at all the postings and threads on their failure...but another reason to appreciate these cars. It's remarkably easy to get the broken tranny in gear and get it home with baling wire and twine!
Trice
1968 280SL US, signal red/bl leather, auto, kinder seat
Sarasota FL; Alsace France; Switzerland
You only need 2 tools in life: WD40 to make things go, and duct tape to make them stop.
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baling wire and twine?...I keep a spare gearbox in the boot /trunk.
quote:
Originally posted by France
I love the primitive connecting bushings on the tranny--just look at all the postings and threads on their failure...but another reason to appreciate these cars. It's remarkably easy to get the broken tranny in gear and get it home with baling wire and twine!
Trice
1968 280SL US, signal red/bl leather, auto, kinder seat
Sarasota FL; Alsace France; Switzerland
You only need 2 tools in life: WD40 to make things go, and duct tape to make them stop.
Nick350
r107 SL red
w113 SL white
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I will have to chime in and add that on my '66 there FOUR keys required if you want to lock and unlock everything. (gas cap, glove box, doors, and ignition). Also noteworthy is the fact that of the TWELVE '63-'67 paint color choices FIVE of them are in the White/Biege color family. A little on the boring side - - . Regards, Larry in CA
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quote:
Just learned something interesting. And please pardon my ignorance, no insult intended.
The ignition key for the right hand drive cars is on the left side of the steering column. Thought they were the same all over, on the right side.
Also the hood/bonnet release cable is on the left side too. So you basically have to operate both doors to get out/in from the drivers seat and then open the passengers to open the hood/bonnet. Strange!
How do you Right sided drivers deal with that?
Walter
1967 220SL-diesel
......yeah some of that can be a pain, though IMO the worst one is that the soft top release lever is still on the left side. It's actually possibly easier to open this in a RHD car by leaning back with your left hand !
However on my particular car the lever is a little sticky, as is the soft top cover, so I end up getting out, walking around, pulling the lever, setting the soft top over the pins at the front, pressing the lever back, slamming the soft top cover, then the soft top rear latch. Then I walk back around,get in and sort out the front pins !
I wondered if, when new, it was possible to open the compartment, pull out the soft top and set it up............all from the drivers seat??
Hardly !
Regards,
Ben in Ireland.
'64 230SL 4sp.
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quote:
Originally posted by lurtch
I will have to chime in and add that on my '66 there FOUR keys required if you want to lock and unlock everything. (gas cap, glove box, doors, and ignition).
If my '66 with all original keys can be used as a guide, the door key also fits the gas cap lock.
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
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Hi There
Heres a minor issue ... Cleaning the rear window with a sponge or sham leather ,part of it tends to get caught up in the side of the glass & hard to remove !
Kemal 280 sl manual
quote:
Originally posted by JPMOSE
I thought I would start an interesting thread (hopefully not repeating a prior one). If you think it is silly then move on! :evil:
This will be a list of Pagoda idiosyncrasies and/or unique features (or flaws) that make our cars more interesting and special. :mrgreen:
The only "rule" that I suggest: If a discussion of any listed item is desired....start a new thread on that particular subject. This way it will not get off course.
OK...so let me start with a few:
1) The engine won't shut off if the brake reservoir is low or empty (at least on late 250SL and 280SL).
2) The trunk light only works when the light switch is on Park or Headlight.
3) The tail light assembly has a clear window that helps illuminate the trunk when the tail light or clearance light is on.
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
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I think that there were originally two options....1, to have one key fits all locks and 2. a 'Valet" set that opened everything apart from the glove box, I think. I'm also under the impression that this lock conversion kit is still available. Cool eh?
quote:
Originally posted by Mike Hughes
quote:
Originally posted by lurtch
I will have to chime in and add that on my '66 there FOUR keys required if you want to lock and unlock everything. (gas cap, glove box, doors, and ignition).
If my '66 with all original keys can be used as a guide, the door key also fits the gas cap lock.
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
paulr
lovely 1970 280 SL
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The later cars had one key to do it all (and maybe the valet option) but Mike is correct that the earliest cars originally had three...
However, like Lurtch, I have 4! I believe my gas cap was changed out -- thus the fourth key. In my case, the gas cap key and the door key are very different sizes so I doubt I can rekey cap to get back to three... whos on first?
James
63 230SL
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I have four keys for a very early 280 SL: ignition; doors; trunk and glove box; and gas cap. No way of knowing if the gas cap is a replacement. It's sure a bit different locking up and unlocking unlike modern cars where you press a button once or twice.
Rod Hersberger
Santa Barbara
'68 280 SL, red, tan, 4sp, two tops
'01 Jag S Type brg
'07 Cayman S Carmona red, sand beige
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quote:
Originally posted by rhersberger
I have four keys for a very early 280 SL: ignition; doors; trunk and glove box; and gas cap. No way of knowing if the gas cap is a replacement. It's sure a bit different locking up and unlocking unlike modern cars where you press a button once or twice.
Rod Hersberger
Santa Barbara
'68 280 SL, red, tan, 4sp, two tops
'01 Jag S Type brg
'07 Cayman S Carmona red, sand beige
As I was walkikng toward my SL the other day in the Publix parking lot I reached into my pocket looking for a remote entry button.
Modern cars have more wires in the door harness than our SL's have in the dash. I kinda like that level of simplicity, No plans for installing keyless entry in my Pagoda.
Al
66 230sl
113-042-10-014715
904/396 blue, Ivory Tex
condition: not-as-rusty-as-before-bucket
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I like the way you have to push the trunk shut rather than slamming it.
1970 AC 428 coupe
1970 Fiat 850 Bertone
1970 Fiat 130 Coupe
1964 Porsche 356c
1966 Ford Mustang
1974 Lotus Europa
1988 Maserati Biturbo
1973 Maserati Bora
1983 TVR Tasmin
1979 BMW M-1
1973 Mercedes 3.5 280 se c
1955 Jaguar XK140 FHC
1968 Jaguar E type XKE
1970 Mercedes 280 SL
1954 Mercedes 300 SL
1989 ferrari 400i
1974 Ferrari 246 GTS
All perfect and used as often as possible. Currently having 1958 Aston DBS (301) and another 300 SL restored.
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Bu©©er me, are you sure you have enough cars? What are you a garage?
quote:
Originally posted by ami
I like the way you have to push the trunk shut rather than slamming it.
1970 AC 428 coupe
1970 Fiat 850 Bertone
1970 Fiat 130 Coupe
1964 Porsche 356c
1966 Ford Mustang
1974 Lotus Europa
1988 Maserati Biturbo
1973 Maserati Bora
1983 TVR Tasmin
1979 BMW M-1
1973 Mercedes 3.5 280 se c
1955 Jaguar XK140 FHC
1968 Jaguar E type XKE
1970 Mercedes 280 SL
1954 Mercedes 300 SL
1989 ferrari 400i
1974 Ferrari 246 GTS
All perfect and used as often as possible. Currently having 1958 Aston DBS (301) and another 300 SL restored.
[:0]
Nick350
r107 SL red
w113 SL white
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I believe that the door and gas cap key should be one in the same.
quote:
Originally posted by rhersberger
I have four keys for a very early 280 SL: ignition; doors; trunk and glove box; and gas cap. No way of knowing if the gas cap is a replacement. It's sure a bit different locking up and unlocking unlike modern cars where you press a button once or twice.
Rod Hersberger
Santa Barbara
'68 280 SL, red, tan, 4sp, two tops
'01 Jag S Type brg
'07 Cayman S Carmona red, sand beige
Kevin Caputo
Boca Raton, FL
1967 230 SL Automatic
670 Light Ivory
113 Bronze/Brown MB Tex
2007 Lava Gray Audi Q7
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Well, I had to dig up this thread as I was reminded of one today (which, by the way, wasn't very easy since I couldn't seem to spell idiosyncrasies the right way...)
Anyway, the Pagoda and I headed to the Health Club for a little workout this afternoon. As is my custom since I hooked it up, I listened to my Ipod Shuffle on the way there. Then wanting to take the Ipod inside with me, I unhooked it... and dropped the little rascal between the seats :oops: . And then -- I remembered Idiosyncrasy Number 87 -- Getting anything out from under our seats!!
I first tried to fish it out with an extra fan belt I keep in the trunk. That only pushed it further into the Abyss. So then I headed back to trunk and grabbed the lug wrench. Finally flicked it out. Sadly, it took me longer to rescue the bloody thing than it did to run out of gas on the treadmill!
James
63 230SL
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Yes, that reminds me of the old Playboy magazine that slipped under the passenger seat. You can just see a portion of it: Passengers sometimes comment on it but for the time being, I feel it's a good place for it and not worth the trouble of fishing it out.
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and another thing...
You have to be a contortionist or a carpal tunnel candidate to turn on the headlights. I sometimes resort to sticking my hand through the steering wheel to get lights on. So when did the "pull-for-on" feature disappear from most cars' light switches?
g
'64 230sl, fully sorted out...ooops, spoke too soon
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He who dies with the most toys, wins
Bu©©er me, are you sure you have enough cars? What are you a garage?
quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by ami
I like the way you have to push the trunk shut rather than slamming it.
1970 AC 428 coupe
1970 Fiat 850 Bertone
1970 Fiat 130 Coupe
1964 Porsche 356c
1966 Ford Mustang
1974 Lotus Europa
1988 Maserati Biturbo
1973 Maserati Bora
1983 TVR Tasmin
1979 BMW M-1
1973 Mercedes 3.5 280 se c
1955 Jaguar XK140 FHC
1968 Jaguar E type XKE
1970 Mercedes 280 SL
1954 Mercedes 300 SL
1989 ferrari 400i
1974 Ferrari 246 GTS
All perfect and used as often as possible. Currently having 1958 Aston DBS (301) and another 300 SL restored.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bas
1964 230 SL
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After forty years- every Pagoda is idiosyncratic. Even if MB built two which were identical(which I doubt), we tinkerers, mechanics, neophytes, saturday sophisticates, etc. have modified the CSV, relays, ignitions, FI, sound systems, steering wheels, horns, etc, into beasts rivaling NASCAR wheels. And all on pretty small budgets by comparison.
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Headlight switches on MB cars were changed to rotary when they lost a couple of engineers off the road in the Alps in the early fiftys.Seems one of the passengers pushed the lights off while trying to find the cigar lighter.This according to an archived MB memo.
Seems smoking is hazardous after all...Fred
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I enjoy the way the outside mirrors "funnel" air into the interior of the car; adds just a little extra cooling to the interior while enjoying a leasure drive,
Bruce; 268Blaugrun(green) 1970 280SL; IL
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Most of you guys wont know about this, but if you have a freshly polished Pagoda, and it gets exposed to a torrential downpour :evil: which leaves a lot of water in lovely bubbles all over the car, and then you drive it, a stream of water comes off the front of the car right onto the front screen in your line of vision !! :D
Regards,
Ben in Ireland.
'64 230SL 4sp.
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never noticed this until you pointed it out Bruce: checked it today and sure enough, a nice stream of cool air comes in via the mirrors!
quote:
Originally posted by tuultyme
I enjoy the way the outside mirrors "funnel" air into the interior of the car; adds just a little extra cooling to the interior while enjoying a leasure drive,
Bruce; 268Blaugrun(green) 1970 280SL; IL
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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Not sure whether this was mentioned already, but ... just noticed today that the half-empty mark on the fuel gauge does not say "1/2" but "2/4". never noticed this on other cars, but maybe that's my lack of perception?
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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When I came to the US, my first job was at Allen Bradley in Milwaukee as a special machine designer. It was my job to design things that couldn't be purchased. So I made drawings of things. One a drawing I dimensioned a distance as 10/16th. My supervisor at the time, Gerald Lohf, took great delight in pointing out that it should say 5/8th
'69 280SL,Signal Red,Automatic,retired engineer, West-Seattle,WA (http://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/theengineer/20051219121123_Drehstern.gif)
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Here's one that is sort of true for other cars but especially for my Pagoda:
The way using the washer fluid and wipers makes more of mess than its worth. First off, half of it runs right off the windshield and leaves blue drips, puddles and streaks down the side of the car. Second, it shoots out like some high-powered water pistol and practically gets the car behind me too! (well almost)
Its just much more efficient to clean it by hand.
James
63 230SL
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I cant find much wrong with our babies however once I read all the messages ....
How very true you all are .... and so funny to read .
Here's one from me ; Does anyone else find it awkward getting / climbing in to the seating position , what with the size of the steering wheel digging in to your thigh ?
Kemal
280 SL Manual 69
quote:
Originally posted by J. Huber
Here's one that is sort of true for other cars but especially for my Pagoda:
The way using the washer fluid and wipers makes more of mess than its worth. First off, half of it runs right off the windshield and leaves blue drips, puddles and streaks down the side of the car. Second, it shoots out like some high-powered water pistol and practically gets the car behind me too! (well almost)
Its just much more efficient to clean it by hand.
James
63 230SL
:D
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quote:
Originally posted by cees klumper
Not sure whether this was mentioned already, but ... just noticed today that the half-empty mark on the fuel gauge does not say "1/2" but "2/4". never noticed this on other cars, but maybe that's my lack of perception?
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
I think it's a German thing. The tach on my 1979 BMW 320i did not read "RPM" but rather, "1/min x 1000" Like the bumper sticker says, "Eschew Obfuscation".
Michael Salemi
1969 280SL
Signal Red 568G w/Black Leather (Restored)
President, International Stars Section
Mercedes-Benz Club of America
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Gifts category- We all need BIGGER budgets- There should be a federal subsidy for our adiction- druggies get one, why not us?
quote:
Originally posted by glennard
After forty years- every Pagoda is idiosyncratic. Even if MB built two which were identical(which I doubt), we tinkerers, mechanics, neophytes, saturday sophisticates, etc. have modified the CSV, relays, ignitions, FI, sound systems, steering wheels, horns, etc, into beasts rivaling NASCAR wheels. And all on pretty small budgets by comparison.
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quote:
Originally posted by kemal shah
Does anyone else find it awkward getting / climbing in to the seating position , what with the size of the steering wheel digging in to your thigh ?
No, but I do whack my knee sometimes on the underside of the projecting windscreen frame when getting out of my SL! Ouch!
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
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quote:
Originally posted by Mike Hughes
quote:
Originally posted by kemal shah
Does anyone else find it awkward getting / climbing in to the seating position , what with the size of the steering wheel digging in to your thigh ?
No, but I do whack my knee sometimes on the underside of the projecting windscreen frame when getting out of my SL! Ouch!
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
I've done that more times than I care to remember.
Here's my contribution for an idiosyncrasy—the kickdown switch on an automatic can be a crazy Jeckyl & Hyde experience at certain speeds, particularly on the highway. It can be too severe, even on a properly sorted-out car.
Douglas Kim
New York
USA
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Time to revive my old thread for 2008! I can't think of anything else to add...but I keep thinking there has to be something?
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
1987 560SL
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quote:
Originally posted by JPMOSE
Time to revive my old thread for 2008! I can't think of anything else to add...but I keep thinking there has to be something?
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
1987 560SL
Here is one that I remember from when I drove my Pagoda as a daily driver.
When driving a Pagoda in the rain at highway speeds (I'll bet most of you have never done that) the drops on the side window run up instead of down because of the air flow from the windshield.
Al Lieffring
66 230SL
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quote:
Originally posted by al_lieffring
Here is one that I remember from when I drove my Pagoda as a daily driver.
When driving a Pagoda in the rain at highway speeds (I'll bet most of you have never done that) the drops on the side window run up instead of down because of the air flow from the windshield.
Of course I've done that. With the sidemirrors you actually get interesting swirl patterns with the rain drops...
Peter
1970 280SL. Also known as 'admin@sl113.org' and organiser of the Technical Manual (http://www.sl113.org/wiki/pmwiki.php).
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May not be a flaw but it is annoying when you don't give the soft top frame that last hard push and the entire top gets stuck in the horseshoe compartment!!!
And with a manual tranny and typical rear end, have to shift out of first too quickly for my taste...
And a problem not with the car but with people who describe the transmission as "4 Speed"; don't both manual and automatic trannies have 4 speeds? Is it only me or are others confused by "4 Speed" transmssion?
Richard M, NYC
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quote:
Originally posted by 280SL71
And a problem not with the car but with people who describe the transmission as "4 Speed"; don't both manual and automatic trannies have 4 speeds? Is it only me or are others confused by "4 Speed" transmssion?
Richard M, NYC
here in south carolina, my mechanic calls my manual a straight transmission...
john
64 230sl
89 190e 2.6
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Quite a few refer to a manual transmission as a 'standard'.[:0]
1969 280sl 5 spd
Gainesville, Fl.
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Has any groundups been tortured riding in the Kinder jump seat side ways. Who invented this was not thinking of a full size person.
Bob Geco
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Let me beat this up a little more:
In some listings or descriptions a 113 car might be described as a "4 speed".
If you saw just this phrase and no more, would you know that the tranny was manual or automatic or could it be either?
Richard M
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quote:
Originally posted by 280SL71
Let me beat this up a little more:
In some listings or descriptions a 113 car might be described as a "4 speed".
If you saw just this phrase and no more, would you know that the tranny was manual or automatic or could it be either?
Richard M
Good point, Richard. I think when people say this they generally mean it's a manual.
Douglas Kim
New York
USA
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quote:
Originally posted by Douglas
Good point, Richard. I think when people say this they generally mean it's a manual.
True, and I believe it's true because most people don't care how many gears are in an auto transmission. It's automatic, after all!
Rodd
Pagoda Technical Manual
please contibute: http://www.sl113.org/wiki/pmwiki.php
1966 230SL
2006 C230 Sport Sedan
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I just thought of a very current and major idiosyncrasy of the Pagoda. It's the cost of possessing a Pagoda! Have you noticed shops and restorations sources stating "it will cost you more JUST because it is an SL!" I discovered the truth in this statement when I inquired about the re-chroming cost of my rear bumper. They asked me immediately "what type of car is this off of?" I stated it shouldn't make a difference if they provide the same quality of work across the board. I then told them for grins, "It's off a Pinto!" They immediately stated it appears to be a Mercedes bumper....It turned out that they have a fixed price for each auto manufacturer. Guess how Mercedes pans out!
Of particular interest to me was the statement...."60's Mercedes SL's are becoming quite collectable in the past few years".
I guess all services rendered will be based somewhat on the perceived escalation value and the willingness to spend of the typical upscale Pagoda owner!
Best Regards,
J. P. Mose
1968 250SL
1987 560SL
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Exactly what I found too J.P.
I was looking for a headliner material for the fintail wagon I restored a few years back. I waltzed into several upholstery shops in search for the lining material that I can cut it to fit the wagon. They always asked me the same thing, what kind of a car is it from? So I tried, that I have two cars, one a Mercedes and the other a VW Bulli van. They said oh the VW, no problem, so and so price, but Hmm the Mercedes, that's much more.
I said its the same material and quantity.
So you can guess what I did.
Yep, bought them (2 sedan ones) from Tom Hanson, at a much cheaper price than the shops gave me.
But had to sew the two sedan ones together.
So it's not just you, it's me too.
Guess they(shops) all think MB owners have deep pockets loaded with money ready to burn.
Not true at all. Owning MB's on a students income is not much, thus elicts creativity.
But now, all the wiser.
Walter, now wiser
1967 220SL diesel
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Well...it's been another year! Can anyone think of some new Pagoda Idiosyncrasies?
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I guess our cars are no longer unique! I read the following from Motor Trend, January 2009; "...and the lower front and rear fascias and the rocker panels are now black instead of body-color, part of the effort to make the color look smaller." This is describing the new 2010 Mustang.
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Just the nut behind the wheel - and each one of those IS unique! ;^)
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Sorry - I couldn't resist- but my pagoda has 2 nuts behind the wheel. Mike is there something you need to tell us?
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Not in polite company!
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Just read through seven pages of idiosyncrasies and can't believe that no one mentioned that on the automatics the "Park" position is at the bottom of the gate and not at the top as it is in most cars. One more for MERCEDES.
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Just read through seven pages of idiosyncrasies and can't believe that no one mentioned that on the automatics the "Park" position is at the bottom of the gate and not at the top as it is in most cars. One more for MERCEDES.
This has bitten me in the A$$ a coulpe of times jumping from Pagoda to SEC. Fortunately not while driving just when putting it in to park.
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Personally, I don't consider the reversed quadrant arrangement on our Pagodas to be idiosyncratic at all! Rather, I think that it is a genuinely useful and practical feature that adds to my enjoyment of the car: One can manually downshift the autobox out of fourth into third with the same motion one would use with a manual gearshift lever. Likewise, the shift from third to fourth is a familiar "snick" of the gear lever.
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I've never driven an automatic pagoda but I've always wondered if I would ever get confused and shift into the wrong gears.
Personally, I don't consider the reversed quadrant arrangement on our Pagodas to be idiosyncratic at all! Rather, I think that it is a genuinely useful and practical feature that adds to my enjoyment of the car: One can manually downshift the autobox out of fourth into third with the same motion one would use with a manual gearshift lever. Likewise, the shift from third to fourth is a familiar "snick" of the gear lever.
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No, no confusion at all.... it just seems perfectly normal when driving. One just accepts it as part of the control layout and forgets about it. That's probably why nobody thought to mention it, even though this topic has been open for two years now!
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Maybe its been mentioned but here are a few more:
-when I put gas in the tank I always have to rotate the gas nozzle 180 degrees so that I can still stand up as I am filling up. Or else, I
would be kneeling on the floor pumping gas.
-when I turn on the fan I have to reach over to the right side of the car turn that knob that seems to rotate forever
-the incredible amount of leg room and head room compared to other cars of the same size
-how my adjustable seat eventually ends up touching the back bench...the back rest never stays upright
-how you cant get your door windows adjusted to seal properly with the softop AND the hardtop
-how much money one spends to get that clock working right...and it never does
-how incredibly beautiful that clock mechanism looks...someone spent alot time on a clock that can't keep time
-how many cutts and scrapes I end up everytime I try to take a dash instrument out
-how you have to get that glove box in an open or closed position to take it out so that the spring doesn't scrape the side
-how unique that little glove box reading light is...its cute and girly
-finally, how I think of my car as a young woman and name it such...you don't think the same way of an american muscle car or porsche
abe
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Good to know.
No, no confusion at all.... it just seems perfectly normal when driving. One just accepts it as part of the control layout and forgets about it. That's probably why nobody thought to mention it, even though this topic has been open for two years now!
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(This MUST have already been mentioned, but I didn't see it)
The way the fuel gauge needle hangs at 4/4 for up to 90 miles, then begins to creep down to 2/4, then picks up quite a bit of speed on the way to empty.
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Door window tracking -(Might be a repeat) (I) like the way the window regulator keeps the forward glass edge closed and the rear edge open as it moves-and the resultant air flow.
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(I) like the way the window regulator keeps the forward glass edge closed and the rear edge open as it moves-and the resultant air flow.
Glenn,
If I understand you correctly, your window is out of alignment. It's supposed to be completely flush all the way around. You'll need to open up the door panel and align the glass.
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I thought I'd bring this back to life after 3 years! Maybe there's some new ones not thought of yet.... ???
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Great thread.. I noticed comments from J.P. Mose:
"... just thought of a very current and major idiosyncrasy of the Pagoda. It's the cost of possessing a Pagoda! Have you noticed shops and restorations sources stating "it will cost you more JUST because it is an SL!" I discovered the truth in this statement when I inquired about the re-chroming cost of my rear bumper. They asked me immediately "what type of car is this off of?" I stated it shouldn't make a difference if they provide the same quality of work across the board. I then told them for grins, "It's off a Pinto!" They immediately stated it appears to be a Mercedes bumper....It turned out that they have a fixed price for each auto manufacturer. Guess how Mercedes pans out! I guess all services rendered will be based somewhat on the perceived escalation value and the willingness to spend of the typical upscale Pagoda owner!"
As a low scale pagoda Owner I have been noticing this more and more when go to the shop to order parts I swear that they have two prices. I found a shop in an out of the way location and when they asked for the type of car I have I replied a Rusty old 280. I looked at the receipt the other day and it said my name and "Rusty 280".
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Thanks for bringing this thread back to life. It was fun to see all the comments and I have to agree with them all. I would like to add the uniqueness of the chromed vents on the back of each seat and the little green dot on the side of the steering wheel hub. My car has a manual 4 spd transmission and I never had a complaint until I drove a car with a five speed then a 6 speed. When ever I drive the car now I am always reaching for that elusive "5 th gear":-)
Still enjoying the ride after 43+ years
John
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Oh my god right?!
Also, I have to say, the soft top is kind of a pain to secure in front :/
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What about your Pagoda being your Mistress and you never told your significant other about your love affair? ;D
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4BSygup1XI4
Right … now back to the topic … great thread let's keep it going :)
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That's a nice collection, I love my DBS, but I prefer my sl
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Let's not forget the wide gutter where we can put our delicate tools for high tech repairs
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Basil,
Speaking of "forgetting" ...
Let's never ever forget to leave any of the tools behind and then slam the hood down ... just ask Dan (Benz Dr.) he will describe the end result :)