Pagoda SL Group
W113 Pagoda SL Group => General Discussion => Topic started by: lreppond on June 27, 2021, 19:49:11
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Although I joined several years ago, it’s only been recently that I’ve actually started enjoying my car. Here’s a short intro. My name is Len Reppond. This is my third SL. My first was a birthday present in 1969. I traded it in for a ‘73 r107 which I kept for nearly 20 yrs. After I sold it, I purchased a series of Lexus automobiles. The 280 I have now was purchased by my dad in January/February of 1971 from Rossi Motors in San Rafael (now RAB Mercedes). He has been the only owner of the car until he gave it to me after giving up his drivers license. The car is essentially unchanged since new. It has 67k miles, original paint and original interior. It’s been garaged since new and for a fifty year old car it’s in great shape. When dad gave it to me, it remained in his garage for several years so it hadn’t been driven in more than six years. I had intended on bringing down to the Bay Area but I’m a procrastinator and then Covid hit. Recently I sent a covered transport truck to dads place, loaded the car up and transported it directly to a shop nearby that specializes in vintage Mercedes. I had the fuel tank drained and inspected, replaced the brakes, steering, tires, mounts, radiator, oil cooler, muffler, had the FIP rebuilt, replaced a frozen clutch and added new bushings everywhere and all new hoses with correct clamps and on and on. I got to actually drive the car recently and it’s finally back at my home. I must say driving a four speed manual is so much fun! The car is nimble, quick and responsive and turns heads wherever I go! I couldn’t be happier. Some interior things need attention. The GP stereo was removed and sent to Becker. The carpets need replacing and I’m undecided what to do with the seat belts. The heater levers need replacement and the wood trim is out and at Madera for refinishing.
There have been a number of members who have helped me with advice and guidance. You all know who you are and I greatly appreciate each and every one of you.
Here’s some pix of the car after it’s first wash job since getting it to my place! My dad turns 101 in August and my intention is to drive it up to his place for him to see. I hope he’ll be impressed!
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My dad turns 101 in August and my intention is to drive it up to his place for him to see. I hope he’ll be impressed!
Your dad will be impressed.
Your story reminds me of a few other father/son experiences with their W113. One was recently covered in the MBUSA Star Magazine and another on YouTube where a detail crew pulls a W113 out from being buried in a garage for years then presented to the father after being resurrected.
https://youtu.be/UyTrkAqnkFI
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The 280 I have now was purchased by my dad in January/February of 1971 from Rossi Motors in San Rafael (now RAB Mercedes). He has been the only owner of the car until he gave it to me after giving up his drivers license. The car is essentially unchanged since new. It has 67k miles, original paint and original interior. It’s been garaged since new and for a fifty year old car it’s in great shape. When dad gave it to me, it remained in his garage for several years so it hadn’t been driven in more than six years.
hello Len, that's a beautiful 280SL and I'm sure you already know how rare it is to have a 50+ year old, all original, one-owner SL. Your dad obviously has good taste in automobiles and he'll certainly be impressed. I'm sorry he had to give up his driver's license but I'm sure he'll enjoy going for a drive with you in the left seat.
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A beauty! Good for you.
jz
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Your car looks fantastic, Len. Thanks for the story and for the pictures. I agree nothing like a spirited drive with the four speed stick!
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Hi Len, great story and lovely car. Enjoy
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Very Nice story and specimen, Len!
Mike
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Great story and a beautiful looking Pagoda as well. So nice to keep the car in the family and I wish your Dad a Happy Birthday #101. Talk about milestones!
John
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Len,
Could we see under the hood? It is very rare to see a car with that few miles on it. I would love to see if there are any logos left on the blue ignition coil? Even glue marks would help.