Pagoda SL Group
W113 Pagoda SL Group => General Discussion => Topic started by: Cees Klumper on July 17, 2003, 13:26:47
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In order to give new members an easy opportunity to introduce themselves (if they feel so inclined) here's a place to do so. Tell us whatever you consider interesting ! :)
Please don't use this forum for discussions, please stick to new member introductions. Discussions can be started here:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?board=2.0
If you want to add yourself to our Pagoda Frapper map, you can do so on our this page:
http://www.sl113.org/services.html
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New member new owner, 1971 280 sl dark red. Was parked next to this sites founder at this past weekends MBCA NY "show" The site and Richard Madison are a tremendous resource. I was infected with the pagoda bug after seeing a 280 at the Greenwich concours several years ago. Took me all this time to find the right car. Pics will be appended as soon as my antique digital camera can be linked to my much newer computer.
Also daily drive a 2002 carrera c4s and converse with that group regularly. Very different personalities between porschephiles vs mercedesophiles
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Hello All,
Since this is a new club we are all new members. I think it would be good is all of us introduced ourselves. I am 55 years old and married with 4 children and 3 grandchildren. My three daughters are married and my son is still studying in Ohio. I live near Athens, GA for over 2 years now. I have had my Pogoda for a little more than a year. It is not yet running well, but with the help of some much advice from this site, I am sure it soon will run well.
I am an engineer by education and am director of Engineering for North America for a large Animal Phamaceutical company.
Daryl
'64 230 SL
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I just purchased a 1968 280sl Red with matching hard top, and convertible option. Love the car. Kind of bought it for my wife because it had an automatic. I also have a 1969 MGB in pristine shape. What a difference to drive the two cars. They both have their place in style and ride. My wife is content to just have it. I am more content to work on it and drive it.
I made one mistake though taking it home. I did not do a complete check of everything before I started to drive it. Two things I found after driving it for about 90 miles. I started to hear a little wind which became a little louder. I checked the differential oil to find it only had a quart or less of oil in it. But the rear end is really tight, hardly no free play. Not sure the whining sound is the differential itself, but may be a bearing amplifying itself through the casing. If anyone has ideas on the fix for this let me know. This was the second time this happened, because my MGB rear end was bone dry when I brought it home. Had to put new shims in it.
The second item I found was the vacuum hose for the distributor was unhooked. This one was a hard one to find because it was under the air intake. I don't know if this could of done much damage to the engine in the 100 miles or so I drove before I discovered it. It just seemed like the engine was running rough.
The third thing I noticed was between 60-70 their is a distinct vibration, and then at 80 it smoothes out again. Don't know if it is engine harmonics on a worn engine (112,000 miles) or it is the drive shaft system.
I have major air-conditioning work to do on the hoses. Anyone know where to get the best replacement hose deals. And advise on how to charge it up.
Finding the vacuum hose was the best thing. It really smooth out the excelleration.
Not sure how this engine is suppose to idle, but it is quite rough at idle, but smooths out as soon as I accelerate or cruise.
My personals. I am a Industrial/Mechanical engineer working in Sales and Marketing. Just turned 53. Have a nice wife of 30 years. One son 21 studying Art Education, and my daughter 20 is studying Fashion Merchandising and Business in New York.
Back to the car. You know I have not seen a good front hood in thirty years. Todays cars are so curved for aerodynamics you don't see the hood in fromt of you. It just looks beautiful to see that long in front of you.
Mercedes did a great job using regular shocks on suspension. The ride is as good today, or better than my other cars, and I don't have to deal with struts.
I was used to getting looks from people in the MGB. Even had a guy follow me for ten miles last week just to take a closer look.
But the smiles you get when you drive the 280sl around is awesome. I don't know if they are just looking at the car, or trying to figure out if I am a movie star, politician, or just wealthy. Of course I am none of these. Just an average guy that enjoys the best of automobiles.
SDK
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Hello, My name is John and I have just joined. I have purchased a 1971 280 sl with 38,000 original miles. I am a auctioneer here in the state of Maine.
john locke
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My name is Rodd Masteller. I live in Powell, Ohio, USA. I am 36 years old, married, no kids, and work in the IT industry supporting and managing software at a steel processing company.
Regarding this group, I am the current Vice-President, a Board Member, and a founding member of this group. I also compile, edit, and publish the group's magazine Pagoda World with lots of help from other group members. (Thanks guys!)
In August 2000 I bought a 230SL which is #18381, built in Sept. 1966. It's 124 Arabian Gray with 158 Gray-White hard top & hub caps. The car has been thoroughly cleaned since this photo, so the color is not quite accurate. Soft top is black, a cheap and torn aftermarket example. Interior is 219 Natural Leather. It was originally delivered in Italy to Carlo Riva, the owner of the Riva boat company. It was imported to the USA in 1976. Total miles are unknown since I have no records from Italy. I drive it about 3,000 miles per year. Nothing is really broken on it. I've been replacing worn parts as time and money allows.
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Rodd
1966 230SL Euro
1994 E420
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We are Lewis and Judy Eig, living in northern NJ, just a few miles north of the George Washington Bridge to New York City....so close to the big city, but it feels like we are in the country. Judy's a financial consultant, Lewis is an engineer for a small electronics manufacturer.
As an avid Saab addict, we had toyed with getting another classic car, and I had to find something that was a convertible. We had a Triumph TR-6 for a while, but it just wasn't refined enough...so, we finally determined the ideal car would be a 113...having gawked at many over the years.
We bought a very early 1964 car, had some neat features, but after a year of ownership, we found we really wanted a nicer car. We looked into fixing up our '64, but decided to upgrade. Early this year we found a car that had a fantastic recent paint job, great history, having belonged to the family of Donald Leap, the current president of the MBCA, all new interior, and great mechanicals.
and, here we are.
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'66 230 sl 113042-10-016238
67 saab sonett II #43 of 258
99 saab 9-5
00 saab 9-3 viggen conv
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Hi! My name is Eugene Kolankowsky, and I have just recently joined this forum! I am currently attending Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Me and my father are restoring his 230sl that he had bought new back in 1964. My dad is quite knowledgeable in cars, me, not so much. But I am learning very quickly, and enjoying working on the car. This is a great bonding experience for me and my dad, and the car is coming along very nicely!
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My name is Gerhard, I became a member of the W113 Pagoda SL Group in July 2003. In 1980 I saw a lot of these cars in St. Tropez (South of France) for a vacation. Fell in love with this cardesign instantly. Never had the possibility to aquire one until June 2003. Now I am the proud( :D ) owner of a 230SL.
I work parttime as a ITIL implementor with an insurance company and run my own consultancy business.
The car I own needs work which I will start this fall, as I started my career in the mid 70's as a car mechanic it should not be a problem. In those days I worked on cars older than the '65 230SL.
Gerhard
1965 230SL
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Thanks for posting your introductions! They are good reading.
I just looked at the forums member list and sorted it by country. Out of 300 people registered to use the forums, 66 have not identified a Country in their profile. If you haven't updated your profile, simply sign on to the forums and click on "Profile" in the menu at the upper right corner of the page. Enter any content that you feel comfortable sharing. It makes it easier for us all to provide assistance when we know what part of the world you live in. It also reiterates the International aspect of our group.
Thanks!
Rodd
1966 230SL Euro
1994 E420
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Bonjour a tous!!!
Buying a Pagoda was a dream come true, owning an antique car and driving something different, powerfull, convertible and so enjoyable: a MB SL pagoda!!
I am 31, from Paris but working for a French Bank here in New York. was infected by the antique car 31 years ago....and it took me 31 years to afford it...
Have always been into antique cars, enjoying the cars of some of my (much..) older friends in France (MB 600, Delage D8, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Pagoda, 280 SE 3.5 convertible, more Pagoda...!!
Thank God my parking is on my way back home...as I do stop to look at the car almost every day...(Is it a serious condition , Doctor??)
My (first) pagoda is an original silver (180G) 280 sl from 1971 with all original interior. I am the 4th owner of the car.
Looking forward to meeting as many SL owners in the coming events and share our common passion...
Fabrice
Silver 1971 280 SL
New York City
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My name is Dana DuBois, and reside near Dallas, TX.
I have a 1970 280sl which was purchased 3 months ago as I've wanted one of these cars for years. MY father owns a 1969 280sl which he's owned for twenty years (and I've driven hundreds of times) but he was unwilling to part with the car so I decided to find another.
The car is in excellent condition though I did replace the heater control levers within the first 2 weeks of owning the car. This site was a good source of info while performing the replacement. I know I saved much $ compared to my father that had them replaced by his mechanic.
I look for forward to getting my father involved in the site.
Thanks for the invaluable information.
Dana
1970 280sl Ivory/4 speed
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Hi. My name is Mike Hund and I reside in the U.S. in central PA, near Harrisburg. I have a 1967 230 SL that I bought about one year ago on e-bay from a seller in FL. It is signal red. I could now write a book on how NOT to buy a Pagoda as I think that I made every possible mistake. It has been in the shop since I bought it. A couple of weeks ago, I gave up on the engine and sent the whole engine to Metric in CA for a complete rebuild. This, despite about $6000 worth of receipts that came with the car showing engine overhaul work completed less than one year before I bought it. I have gained a wealth of experience by reading this web site and other information on the internet. Unfortunately, much of my learning came too late to do me a lot of good. The one good thing about my car is that it looks pretty good, is fairly original and has no real (visible) sign of rust. I hope to have it on the road by fall. I appreciate the information available on this website.
Best regards,
Mike Hund
1967 230 SL, Signal Red
Michael L. Hund
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Hi Mike,
Welcome! I also bought a signal red SL from Florida on Ebay. Mine is a 1969 280. Sounds like I got lucky though, I've had my problems but nothing that severe.
I live in Annapolis Md. I know there are a couple of members in the 4 hour range; Washington, Philadelphia, N.J. Maybe when you get on the road we can figure out a reason to get together.
Chuck Bartlett
1969 Signal Red 4 Speed
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Hello owners:
I just purchased a 1967 250sl Green from the Armour (as in meat) family, they are pretty well known socialites in Chicago where I lived for five years. Car has been in Chicago for at least the last 10 years and was stored in the winter, so I am hoping for minimal rust problems. I bought the car pretty much unseen and not checked out so I may be in a whole lot of trouble but the price was right. Can I be diagnosed with some type of disorder for undertaking this journey?
Car does run and supposedly is original 60k miles, I am going to try to track down some receipts once I receive the car. Hope that I can salvage a nice weekend ride, no need for a concours edition after reading the cost involved.
My background: I am 41 with a wife and a one year old boy named Astin. Live in South Orange County where the weather is perfect 300 days of the year. I am actively involved with the Aston Martin Owners Club and have been working with architects and car designers, designing showrooms for a number of major manufacturers in the US and Europe. I manage a design studio in Southern California, where we create branded spaces and interesting outreach programs.
I have owned a few MBZ sedans and currently have an 95' E Class which my wife drives. I like the cars for the drive, technology and dependability.
Look forward to getting the car in the next week. This forum has been great in putting together a long list of things to look at, once I receive the car. Hope to see you on the roads less travelled.
SMP
1967 250sl Orange Cty, CA
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Hi, there. I bought a sight-unseen 1968 280 signal red automatic on eBay, and it was a real find. I am submitting an article to the newsletter about buying it. I live in a tiny village in France, Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the German Alps, the wine country in California, and Sarasota FL. The 280 came from OK and resides in FL. I look forward to restoring her to concours (not far to go, the seller knew not what he had!) but my first task is to find new key blanks, which I think may still be available in Germany. We went to Speyer this past weekend and saw the 280 that had 1.2 million kms on her--original owners are now in their 80s. It was really fun!
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I just bought a 1965 230SL 1 week ago. As a previous owner of a Sunbeam Alpine Mk IV in Singapore, a Sunbeam Alpine Mk V & MGB GT in the UK, this is my first non-British car. The higher quality of engineering is very noticeable.
Although I have not yet had the chance to explore the whole forum site it is clearly better that the text-based mail list I had been subscribing to for the Alpine.
Great forum and I hope to learn a lot!
Tim
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I guess it is my time to jump into this thread. I purchased a 1967 250SL in April and have had a ton of fun with the darn thing. I did have to get some work done on it (new alternator, fuel pump, transistor ignition, fuel tank relined etc.) but now it is running like a freight train (a very good thing). I had a 107 for 12 years, and had always wanted a 113.
I am in NE Ohio, USA, and have a fabulous mechanic to keep all those little fine tuned things that need to be fine tuned, in proper alignment with the planets.
I am single, and work for as a Six Sigma black belt for an international chemical company based out of Cleveland. I have been a MB owner and club participant since 1986, with a 99 SLK, and 2001 E320 4 Matic ( and a new model Mini Cooper S) in the (over stuffed) garage.
I have learned a great deal from this club, and hope to learn more and participate further in the future.
Jonny B.
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Hello.
I've owned my 1968 280sl for about 8yrs. It's red exterior, with tan leather interior, and a 4sp. It's a daily driver on mostly a freeway commute. It's also a California car, so has almost no rust :-)
The car was burning oil when I got it, and the engine was of uncertain ancestry, but it ran (with some problems) until I blew a head gasket in late 2001.
I dug up a '71 280SE engine w/injection and did an engine swap early this year, and finally got it running well about 2 months ago (went through the sticky MFI piston problem, linkage adjustment, fuel injector cleanup, engine cooling problem due to too much retard and fan-shroud missing, etc). The new engine runs GREAT, so I have a bit of time to rebuild the old one. Since then I've been slowly fixing all the little problems that it accrued over the years. The next major fix is to rebuild the soft-top frame and re-cover with new canvas.
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Hello fellow members, and administration,
Under the recommendations of the technical director of the M.B.C.A. I have decided to join my self , and a 1966 euro 250se to your web site . With two extra doors and a lot more metal surrounding all the same basic components I know you can hep me, but I hope I am not the unwanted boring crasher at the sundeck party. This car middle metalic gray with red mb tex is a 4speed on the floor model , all original and a little worn but very nice. It's running very well and I put 2,700 miles on it these 14 months. it had 66,000 miles on it when purchased. I want to get the fuel injection set up right, but I need to read more on it and get pictures, linkage specifications so I can ask better questions. thanks Richard and Mr Cees Klumper, for your emails.
from ''alex250se''
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I thought that I should post up. I just flew from Chicago to Atlanta and bought another 113 (my wife had a blue 1971 280SL when we wed) a 1969 280SL four speed, papyrus white with blue MB Tex. It is the strongest running 113 I have driven, I drove almost non stop through the mountain's and the car did not burn a drop of oil! The only option's a left outside mirror and a radio delete plate ( I keep it in glove box, there is a Europa Becker in dash) I just sold my 23000 mile A.A.C.A. first place show winner to a large Chicago collector. I am very busy right now but I will post some picture's soon. I hope to restore this 113 to a respectable level, however I am thinking of not turning it into a show car because I love to drive it so much, I dont want the worry of show paint! I do most of my own work, but leave the auto body work for someone who does it for a living. I think this site is the best thing going for a 113 owner. Can anyone steer me towards a parts catalog I need some trim and engine part's to start my restoration, thanks
Ernie Burchall surffing@comcast.net 847-295-2749
First Place Show Winner 350SL This SummerI love low mile car's.
1969 280 4spd
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Hello, my name is Paul, i joined this site because it looked so interesting. I don't have an sl yet but am seriously looking for one. I already saw a lot of cars but many are in bad condition. I'm sure i will find the "one" some day. Greetings to all of you.
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A quick intro. as a new member of the Forum. I live in Cognac, France where I am retired. We own a MB E300TD for long (fast)European trips, the wife has a series 4 Golf and I have an 1969 MGC GT for social rallies and a 1968 Austin Moke which is used daily to collect the baguettes.
The MG is strong and a great touring car but is a coupe and with recent temperatures in the 100F (unfortunately during a couple of social rallies), I like the idea of the choice of hard top with or without A/C or a soft top for in between.
Other interests are golf and oenology (sp?). Did you know there are 350 million litres of Cognac ageing at any one time and that evaporation is about 2 percent. That's the equivalent of 17,000 litres a day - no wonder an evening walk sees me coming home with a grin on my face.
As soon as I find my dream (a 280SL), I'll be sure to let you know.
George Simpson
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Hello Group,
Sorry to interrupt this enjoyable discussion thread with "business", but I have two friendly request of forum users. In the menu in the top right corner of this screen, you can click on "profile" and enter information about yourself. This is all voluntary, nothing is required.
1. I would like to see more people simply include their nation of residence in their profile. Currently, 77 of 325 (23.7%) members of the forum do not designate this. It would be good to include this for several reasons, two of which are:
- It helps people answer your questions with regards to local laws, local parts or service suppliers, shipping questions, local events, and other issues.
- It helps those who operate the W113 Pagoda SL Group to get a better feel for the demographics. We can better provide local services (social get togethers, car meets, driving events, parts swaps, tech sessions, etc.) if we know where the members are.
2. Use a signature. Often times people will ask a question and not include basic information, as in do you have a 230, 250, or 280 SL? Is it a manual transmission? Don't hesitate to describe your vehicle in your signature, it will be posted every time and you won't have to remember to include any of the basic info.
I hope everyone is enjoying the web site, we're glad you chose to belong to the W113 Pagoda SL Group.
Thanks,
Rodd
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both tops
1994 E420
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Hello everybody, My name is Timo Ala-Heikkila 36 years old and I am living in Finland. I bought 230 Sl -66 from New York 1995. Now car is fully restorated except interior which is under construction. I found this web site only week ago so I am new member.
Kind regads
Timo
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Hello everyone. Apparently I'm the newest member to this fine group. My name is John, married, one child (who is 30 years old) and planning for the next one with my beautiful new wife of five years (who has the patience of an angel). I'm in the real estate development business in Los Cabos, Mexico where I'm in charge of building up scale resort destinations for your wonderful use and enjoyment. (Sorry, couldn't help putting in the commercial). I'm in the process of purchasing the car that I fell in love with as a kid and can finally afford. I look forward to being a part of what is obviously a fine group of people from around the world. Thank you for the welcome!
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Hi all,
Let me introduce myself. I'm a 36 yo I.T. professional based in Melbourne Australia and the proud owner of a silver '68 280SL Auto. I also have a Porsche 911 and a 1973 Alfa Romeo GTV (my first car..which I just can't seem to part with despite serious rust). I must say I was a little concerned about swapping the 280 for the 911 as my regular transport but now I've no regrets. The 280 is more comfortable and relaxing around town despite being 12 years older.
PaulS
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Hello everybody !
Sorry this message is a little too long, but...well:
I’m Pierre ,47, married with a finnish woman, and we are parents of 2 nice girls. I teach german, which is connected to the fact I love german cars and especially mercedes. If you’ve got the patience to read, you’ll understand better…
We are living in the south of France, in a ski resort, Font-Romeu, 20 kilometers away from the spanish border,50 kms from Andorra, in the Pyrenees between Toulouse and Barcelona.
I brought up in a mercedes surrounding as my father loved these cars: 1957 he imported himself his 1st DB,(Mercedes-France did not exist yet) It was a brand new 180 Diesel. He drove it fast through the chaotic spanish roads (no highways at the time) and through France. He was a mercedes fan, and drove only mercedes from 1957 till 1991 when he died!
Later, in 1963, he bought a used 220 S ponton (modell 1955, I think).
At that time, the Pagoda appeared, but it was a dream car we couln’t afford, and as I had 3 sisters and a brother; the big 220 sedan was a much better family car!
I was about 7 or 8 and I told myself that I would possibly buy a pagoda someday, when they will be cheaper…. I knew by instinct that this car was a born as a classic, like any other SL.
All my childhood was bound to mercedes : trips to Germany and to spain, from 1965, in a 190 DC, then in a 220 D.
1971, my family was invited to test the new 350 sl and I remember how the mercedes seller drove us, my sister, my brother and I, at 170 km:h on a little french road near Perpignan. It was fantastic, but I couldn’t forget the Pagoda which looked so good, a little more elegant than the new 350 sl.
Some years after getting my driving-licence, my father wanted to buy me a car, but instead of a new Citroen 2 cv ,one like my brother had got, I said I would prefer an old mercedes benz; and I imported an old 200 diesel from Germany which I drove 6 years, then I changed for… another 200 Diesel!..
Later I had moved to the moutains and mercedes cars were really bad on the snow. That’s why we bought after 1988 several VW and 3 years ago an Audi a6 avant -97.
I own also a –54 renault 4 cv since 1985 and a 74 citroen 2 cv4.
My dream of a Pagoda stayed alive and got finally true last february:
an older man had restored a brown 230 sl 1964, interior: cognac, goodlooking (at first sight!), He had done a lot of work on the car body , brakes, etc…
Only the front grill was wrongly installed and made the car front look rather ugly. The motor sounded bad… But I had loved all mercedes for such a long time, no pagoda could be ugly to my eyes, I was blind , I bought a car which did not run well and which stopped 50 kilometers later: No fuel …! …but I didn’t know, as the dash tank meter showed half full (stuck up, of course!)…
The Mercedes garage in Perpignan took the car, kept it a month, tuned it, then the engine ran much better. At the end of june only, I had a new garage at home for the pagoda and I brought it home to the mountains, the first long trip though I had owned that pagoda for several months already.
Then came 45 beautiful summer days finally with that car.
On a sunny day, the engine couldn’t start anymore and now the Pagoda is in the hands of a local mechanic who works very slowly…. I must wait again for that car!
Pierre
Brown metallic 230 sl 1964 man 4 spd 250 motor
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Welcome Pierre! A very nice story indeed. My first Mercedes was a 1982 300D. I got it in 1990 and to this day it is still one of my most favorite cars. Then came a 1990 2.6 190, then finally the 280 SL in 1999. That same year I got my current C180 to move the family around.
Pierre will be in the club's 40th anniversary Poster with the following picture:
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Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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Hi,
Names Malcolm, I live near Aberdeen in Scotland. I have been given a 1965 230SL by my sister in law, slight problem, the car is in New Jersey 3500miles away!! Car is left hand drive, but the speedo is in Kilometers we think that the car was probably brought into the US years ago as a personal import
Car is a bit of a wreck but is 99% all there, lots of rust especially in the box sections just infront of the rear suspension and the interior is pretty badly damaged by the elements. Nearly all of the chrome is there except for some side strips on the RHS door.
However the boot (trunk) is dry and the car has not sagged in the middle suggesting that the structure is still sound (ish). Hard top appears ok except for alittle rust at the bottom of the rear frame.
Any help or pointers to how to get it over to my neck of the woods appreciated, and to suppliers of parts etc especially in the UK unless there are suppliers who will ship from overseas.
I restore cars as a hobby, my missus is glad I am in my shed, not down the pub, so any tips on how to restore the car would be appreciated.
Cheers
Malc
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Live in London
Always loved SLs and this summer my wife saw a red 230SL with the top down and she fell in love
Since then she's been on a mission - and I like keeping her happy. She was after a '67 as it's her birth year but....
Today's (18th Oct 2003) "impulse" purchase was a metallic light blue 280SL first registered on 1st January 1970
Auto, power Steering, Hard and soft tops, nice exterior, re-done interior, rear jump seat. Right hand Drive, of course. And as a "mod con", a new radio, with a 10cd changer and amp in the boot (trunk). It won't win any concours events but that's not why we bought it. Not that we have yet, technically!
Jan 1970 blue 280SL...mmmm
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Hi,
My name is Larry Evans and I live in the small town of Comox on vancouver Island,B.C. Canada. I was browsing the net the other day looking for a source for a 280SL owners manual when I came upon this website and forum. I signed up immediately.
My story goes as follows: In 1969 I accepted a teaching assignment with the Canadian Forces in Germany and shortly after arriving there I went looking for a car. I was single, had money in my jeans and a Canadian dollar that bought almost 4 DM. I entered a Mercedes showroom where a 1968 280SL was displayed. I DID NOT BUY THIS CAR but opted for some 'practical' nondescript Opel.
I returned to Canada 3 years later and vowed I would one day own a 280 and I made this clear to family and friends. Twenty years ago I was transferred from a school and a staff member,whose husband was a Mercedes mechanic, gave me the 280SL name plate as a 'first start' on my dream car. It has been displayed in my shop ever since. Each year the Victoria Opera Society has a lottery where the prize is a 230SL or a 280SL.I always buy $100 worth-the only lottery tickets I ever buy.
There is ONE 280SL in our town and I got word to the owner that, should he wish to sell, I was interested. In May of this year I bought it!!! An immaculate 1969 German(Euro) model, standard trans, white/ Pearl with red upholstery. It has been a long wait but I finally got my car. I'm looking forward to communicating with like-minded enthusiasts on this forum.
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Hello from Los Angeles, Ca. 8)
I've owned my 1968 280SL for about 1 1/2 years. I regularly take it out for weekend drives and it alternates with my 68 Camaro convertible as my daily driver. The beauty of L.A. is the weather. Perfect convertible weather almost year-round. One of the things I love about the car is the handling. When I don't have enough time for Pacific Coast Highway or Angeles Crest Mountains or the Ojai dessert roads, Mulholland Drive is just minutes away. I take it to the top and just "spank it". Amazing road holding ability!!!And I know a little about cars, for the last 4+ years I was the sales manager for Beverly Hills BMW. I would MUCH rather own a well sorted out classic 280SL than a new Z4. And I'm not kidding! I had the good fortune of meeting a few restorers and they introduced me to this great mechanic. He was the service shop forman at Beverly Hills Mercedes for many years and now he has his own little place. He knows these cars inside and out. He keeps the car ready to rock! And, at 6'5" tall, I find the 280sl amazingly roomy!!! I've had many, many cars in the past 30 years or so...some hot-rods, some new, some classics, and this car is amongst the best I have ever owned. Do I sound like a fan??? :D I was lucky to find this car in such great condition. Thats another benefit of southern California cars, no rust and people from this area tend to take pretty good care of their high-line and classic cars. I've done a few things to spruce it up a bit here and there, and I make sure its maintained. You can view my cars on my webpage if you like.
Wow...that's a long introduction! Sorry about that! I just get carried away sometimes! :oops:
Steve W.
1968 280SL
www.stevewaddington.com/camaro
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Howdy All
My name is Tony and I purchased a 1965 230SL (automatic) today. A friend of mine brought this forum to my attention and I have been reading it all evening. What a tremendous resource you have here. Hopefully as I gain knowledge and experience, I too can contribute. Cheers!
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Just joined the forum and am having my 71 silver/burgandy restored by Bud's Benz in Atlanta. Mechanicals should be finished in the Spring of 04 then back for paint and interior in the Winter of 04. I've loved the car for years and found the color combintion I had been looking for.
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From New User "Jans"
My name is Jan and I am living in the Netherlands.
I own a sl113 pagode from 1970. The colour is grey.
We restore the pagode completely
The engine, interior, painting,etc etc etc.
We think we finish the car this spring.
We are already almost 2,5 year working on it, but he is NEW when the job is done.
I send some pictures on the forum.
Hope to have a lot of fun on this nice club.
many greetings from Jan
j. schuil
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Hello everyone, I am an owner of a 1967 250 SL. The car was restored in Stuttgart by my father (I just handed him tools and "sponged" knowledge as he gave it). I was too young to truely appreciate the mechanics and beauty of this car. The red rocket is now under my wing; I have an uphill battle since the car sat for over 4 years with fuel in it !!! I am sure I will be asking for advice and info along the way. So far I have replaced the tank and fuel pump (plus battery , plugs etc.), it still will not start. I am moving up the fuel delivery system now...Cheers !!!
I spend half my day in the Salt and the other half trying to get rid of it.
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hi all,
my name is alan and i just purchased a 70 280sl automatic. Silver w/ red interior. the car has been cosmetically redone exterior & interior. the engine is okay and transmission and power steering needs some work.
as a teen, i told myself i only wanted 2 dream cars. i bought my first one last year, a porsche 996 carrera, and 2 weeks ago, bought my second dream car.
i live in southern california, 10 miles east of Los Angeles. i hope to give this to my 2 year old boy when he turns 18. my mrs. does not care much for my car passions. she thinks my porsche is too rough to drive and my pagoda is too old. hopefully she will get around that soon.
anywho, i like this club and the information on this board is very useful. i would like to meet members in the Pasedena area to compare and share car stories and resources.
:)
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Hi all!
My name is Lennart Johansson, and I live in Gothenburg, Sweden working in the IT business. When I was 40 in 1992 I was able to realize a long time dream. There was a aconomic recession in the country and more Pagodas than ever were for sale at down to half the previous year's (inflated) prices. I checked out 10 cars and ended up with the second best (the best was still too expensive for me) a 1968 280SL Silver metallic (180) with black leather and 4-speed manual, and most options (thankfully no AC or anti-smog equipment many Americans have to struggle with).
It was brought to Gothenburg by a German in 1973, and I have met the first Swedish owner who recognized his old car at a classic car meeting som years after I had bought it. Unfortunately there has been other owners in between, and the front fenders have been replaced by someone who could done better work and resprayed it in the original colour with a bit too much clear lacquer than it should be, but the shine is still magnificent 20 years after! Some chrome is replaced, and the rest is pretty ok. The interior is completely original with some wear, but I feel a restoration is completely unnecessary, and would kill the soul of the car.
Mechanically it is near perfect, I leave almost all work to a pair of ex-Mercedes mechanics running their own. A stainless steel exhaust system that is somewhat louder than the original adds to the driving pleasure.
/Lennart
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Hi:
My name is Howard Kramer and I recently join the group. I live in Bronxville, NY which is a couple of miles north of NYC. I have a 71 280SL which I purchase in 1990. I bought the car from the original owner in Southern California (Newport Beach) which is where I am origninally from. I have been in NY for 12 years and had the car sent out 2 years ago. My car is metallic Blue with Parchment leather interior, automatic, power steering, a/c etc.. The car is completely original. In the past I owned a 68 9llT (targa) with zip out window and a 73 911s Targa. I currently have a Range Rover 4.6 and a Lexus LX470.
I have decided to dedicate the next year to doing some cosmetic upgrades to the (Interior) and am most interested in refinishing the engine with a complete paint and polish detail. (I am not sure what I will be getting myself into or how I am going to get their but I am sure the forum will help me) I would like to thank Doug Kim even though we have't as yet met for his indirect introduction to Wolfgang in NJ. My car will be delivered to Wolfgang on the 23rd for a complete inspection and to have any work that it may require done as I haven't driven the car in a year.
So for me this is the beginning of a new era of enjoyment from the 280SL.
I look forward over the year participating in the forum and sharing my findings and meeting other members in the area.
Douglas give me a shout some time, I would love to get together.
Howard Kramer
71 280SL
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Howard,
Welcome! Your car sounds like a wonderful example. I'm sure I speak for many owners reading this when I say I'd love to see it. Care to share some digital pix with the group?
It would also be terrific to get more NYC-area Pagoda owners together once the weather warms up a bit. (Not exactly Newport Beach weather here in the Empire State right now.)
And just ot give credit where it's due, I should add that one of the first people who recommended Wolfgang's shop to me was Klaus Drexl, an active participant in this group and a former M-B employee.
Another excellent resource not too far from the City is Hans of H&R Fuel Injection in Bohemia, NY. He's an extremely knowledgeable fuel injection specialist and a real pleasure to deal with. (And as luck would have it, Hans knows Wolfgang quite well.)
Douglas Kim
New York, NY
280 SL #018260
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Hello everyone,
My name is Jim Cox. I live in San Diego CA and joined the group a couple of months ago shortly after I purchased a '64 230sl. The site has been very helpful as I endeavor to learn all a can about these beautiful cars. My previous experiences owning collector cars were exclusively British, MGs to be precise. At various times I owned a 67 MGB, 59 MGA, 61 MGA and even a 54 MG TF. I always admired the Pagodas and I finally decided to jump in feet first. The 64 is a RHD european version (first US registration in 67) pale ivory with leather bamboo interior. She is by no means a show car but she's still a beautiful lady with a nice patina. I'm in the process of going though the various mechnical systems and cosmetics , which for me is half the fun of owning a collector car. Just last night I managed to repair my VDO clock and was rewarded with a great deal of satisfaction in the process. It is a pleasure reading your posts and I look forward to sharing our challenges and victories in the future. Respectfully, Jim Cox
Dooh! I meant to say LHD (my military right), 4-speed manual with no air conditioning (hey, it's San Diego).
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Ok, It's my turn. Many of you in the USA already know me. I've been with the MB dealer organization for 31 years. My family has been in the automotive business since 1904. I hear so many horror stories about "dealers" ripping people off all the time, and just wanted to do something to preserve the integrity of this industry. I have a passion for Mercedes Benz automobiles. I believe them to be the finest mass-produced car ever. I judge them at many local shows. I also offer legitimate deals on parts because, let's face it, these cars are expensive. If I can help out my fellow enthusiasts keep their cost of ownwership down, then we both benefit. I can also offer some technical advice too, but many others on this site are better at that than I am. Collectively, we can all benefit by one another, and that's what life should be all about. Thanks to all of those who have contacted me, and I look forward to corresponding with all of you.
tom hanson in CA
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Everyone,
Please welcome Wayne, the 500th person to subscribe to our Group's discussion forum! Wayne's ID = wayneg2 and he is from Raleigh, NC, USA.
Welcome!!!
Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both tops
1994 E420
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It's time for me to introduce myself and my recently acquired 230SL to the group. As it happens, the Washington Times did an article last Friday featuring my car and how it came into my life:
http://www.washingtontimes.com/autoweekend/20040310-115646-6782r.htm
The car is Havana Brown (408) with Light Beige (181) hard top, Brown (437) soft top, and Cream (121) MB Tex, p/steering & automatic, WSW tires and Blaupunkt AM/FM mono. Except for tires, paint, carpet and convertible top, all of which were redone about 14 years ago more for appearance sake than because there was any real wear and tear, it is a remarkably untouched original car.
I am no stranger to Marque Clubs, having owned a string of M.G.s since I was in high school. This is my first Mercedes (unless you count my mom's '73 280 sedan), and shares garage space with 7 M.G.s ranging from 1934 to 1967, an XJ6 Jaguar and a Merkur. I've been dabbling with M.G.s for over 30 years and am a past president and longest continuously active member of the M.G. Car Club Washington DC Centre, as well as being a member of the New England M.G."T" Register, the North American MMM Register, North American MGB Register, International Merkur Owner's Network, and a founding member of the North American MGA Register. Somehow I never got around to joining the Jaguar Club!
Home base for the Hughes automotive museum is a house and two garages in Alexandria, Virginia. My wife, Lucia, and I also keep a couple of cars garaged up at our log cabin in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia, rotating them around as the seasons and maintenance schedules dictate. I look forward to taking the Pagoda up to the mountains this summer.
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
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That is a great story Mike - congratulations with you getting this car after all of these years. By the way, Tom Sargeant, one of the founding members of this site and of the Group, I believe lives close-by. He is organizing a get-together this summer.
I owned two Triumph Spitfires when I was 20 years old (now 23 years ago!) and that got me onto the classic car track for life...
Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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Hi Mike..
It was a wonderful piece in the Washington Times. It seems to be a common story with Pagoda owners. I first saw the Pagoda in 1965 and lusted after it from that time on. For almost 40 years I would tell my wife that the only car I ever realy wanted was the Pagoda... now I have mine and love it too.
Last week we drove through the Napa Valley wine country in spectacular Calif. weather.... even my wife agees the Pagoda made it special.
Dick
1970 280SL blue gray
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Hi everyone,
My name is Christoph Brockschmidt. I live in Thousand Oaks CA, work as a car designer for Volkswagen and joined this group a couple of weeks ago after being back from a pretty extended business trip and an as long break from working on my car.
I got my 1969 280Sl about two years and a half ago. It is black on black with California black plates and if the guy who sold it to me didn’t lie, it’s been owned by one family for it’s entire life. It was just the color combo I was looking for and I got too exited to see the little flaws the car had.
There was this wailing sound from the driveshaft and the speedometer’s hand was bouncing up and down and there was that cute little tick tick tick from the engine – I bought it anyway. I drove it in this condition for some time until the mechanical noise annoyed me so much that I first pulled the 4-speed manual tranny and replaced every bearing and syncro. I also put in a new driveshaft bearing. This way I got rid of some of the noise and bouncing but I still wasn’t really happy.
So I pulled the engine and had that rebuilt by Metric Motors. They have done a great job. It looked like new and it still does: I could not put it back in yet because of the earlier mentioned business trip. Now I would like to paint the engine bay and get all bits and pieces cad plated or powder coated and if, after this six month break, I will be able to find out what goes where is still up in the air. But I am optimistic to have her back on the road for summer. This was my little Pagoda story and I hope I can share some of my experiences with others in this group in the future.
Thanks a lot to Cees Klumper, to Tom Hanson and all the others for their helpfulness.
Christoph
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HI, Christoph,
You'll learn a lot from the group here.
Several years ago, I read a magazine article about the man who designed the new Beetle. Forget his name, but when asked what cars he owns personally, one he mentioned was a 230 SL. He said it has a timeless design, or something like that.
Welcome.
Joe
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WOW!! I'm sure glad I found this site. Hello Everyone, my name is Vince Guinta from Hoboken NJ, across the river from New York. I am a professional firefighter. Enough of the boring stuff.
You can find me in my real home (my garage) most of the time I am not on duty.I started this love affair with autos about 33 yrs ago. Been through all phases of it. Restored a 73 450SL from a burn out, & a whole bunch of other cars, including kit cars (don't spread it around)
Loving every second of it but now I have my dream car. 1969 280SL w/air. Acquired it while lost in Pennsylvania on a back road. Saw it sticking out of a used car lot way in the back.
Needless to say I did a 360 & went in. Of course the place was closed, so I put a note on the car with my info on it.Put it on the office door, the post outside the place, then went back & put it on all the cars out front. & Guess what!!! They Called!! 2 weeks later I had it.
Started to get into it when Sept 11 came about. Kept pretty busy, but things have settled down now.
So here I am with a million questions to ask & knowing I'll find the right answers from you guys. Glad to be a part of it. Oh!! Not too good with this computer stuff, hate sitting on my butt, I'll get better.
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Hello All,
My name is Greg from Sunny Tampa Florida and I recently joined your terrific group. It is groups like this that make our hobbie all the more enjoyable. Here is my story.
My first experience with the W 113 was in 1980 at the ripe old age of 15. My father found a 1965 230SL Silver with Blue interior in Hemmings Moter News located in Wisconsin. He and I flew up form South Carolina in December of that year, bought the car, and drove it back. I was fortunate enough to be able to drive the car during most of my college days.
In the early 1990's the cancer that plagues these cars had spread to much and he sold it to a local car dealer having represented the car accuratly and honestly. I was told later that the dealer loaded it up with filler, painted it, and sold it for a premium. In 1993 my father bought a 1966 230SL but having learned his lesson about the rust, bought a one owner Florida car with 66K miles and not a speck of rust (I'll come back to this one). In 1994 it was my turn.
I was living in Raleigh, NC and found a 1965 230SL advertised locally for sale and was only $ 6,600.00. The car looked great (Cream over Black)and ran good but not having learned from the past I found myself owning the the same type of patched up vehicle that the car dealer had sold to an unsuspecting soul (What's the old saying "If it sounds to good to be true, etc...).
I kept the car for about a year and sold it (described it honestly)I feared my seat would drop through the floor. This time I learned from my mistake and in 1996 found a 1969 280SL, one owner, 61K miles, completly original (except for tires, hoses, etc...) Cream over parchment and without a trace of rust and after hours of listening to the 81 year old owner and all of the stories about the car, bought it and now finally had what I was looking for or at least I thought.
This was a California model with only the hard top and the small rear seat and while I knew this when I bought it I decided after a year or so to sell it as driving it with the top off and no provisions for rain did not appeal to me. This takes me back to my father's second car.
In 2001 I was itching for another W 113 and my father was in the mood to sell so after some heavy negotiating we agreed to a price and I now have a very nice, rust free 230SL that is very original and has the soft top for those days that I might get caught in a rain shower.
I also have a 1962 190 SL and it seems the majority of my friends like the looks of the 190 SL better but not me, I think they are both great works of art but the Pagoda is and will always be my favorite.
Thanks for putting up with my long story and I look forward to participating in the group. Also, if there is anyone in the Tampa area and would like to compare notes, let me know.
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posted on behalf of Willy Rams
Hi Guys and Dolls out there,
Altough I am a member since over a year, just started to read these profiles now, and I tought there should at least be one Belgian in here.
So, I am 57, retired Electrical Engineer and worked for Westinghouse Nuclear most of my professional life, and participated in the construction, testing and commisioning of 4 of the 7 Belgian NPP's ( visited a few US Nukies too).
At first, I had a 1963 MGB and a 1965 Daimler MK II. On a business trip to Pittsburgh some 8 years ago, John Rooney, who passed away in the mean time, took me on a trip in his Green 280 SL. Back home I found everything wrong with my MGB and finally bought a partially restored (bodywork / upholstery) 1967 230 SL, who originated in Hollywood (no famous previous owners). I also sold the MK II, and replaced it with a 220 SEb (W111 - nicknamed Heckflosse). Both cars give me a lot of pleasure, and keep me busy. The Heckie is in better mechanical shape than the Paggie. So, I need to spend some money on the 230 SL this Summer, before I can drive it up to Cees in Amsterdam.
Cheers to all of the Paggie Lovers of this Site,
Willy, 230 SL 1967 Auto - 220 SEb 1965 Auto
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Hello fellow enthusiasts.
My love affair began about 20 years ago. When I first laid eyes on her I new I had to have her. I wanted her. I wanted to rub my hands all over her curvacious body. I wanted to get in her and have my way with her. ( she would later be descrbed as a screamer :D ) Alas it wasn't in the cards.
Although I knew in my heart that some day I would hook up with one of these pretty ladies. Her vision never left my mind. It was 8 years after that I decided the time was right. I looked at every ad I could find. Many of the listings were just too far away. I wanted to meet her personally. I didn't want a stranger checking out my lady . Then one day there she was.
She was a German beauty spent the beginning of her life in Italy. She was with a US Captain . He brought her here to the US. She had ZF5 box beautiful but not perfect. When I took her away from her 4th (I was her 5th but not last). I couldn't provide for her. She needed more than I was able to provide. We became victims of the early 90's economy. We decided to split up. I told myself she would not be my last!
A few weeks ago I saw her. She was on the auction block. Her 7th was giving her up. :( She looked great! She was radiant! Good luck #8!!
Eleven long lonely years went by. Finally the time was right. I knew I wanted a long lasting relationship. No initial high maintenance. I wanted a beauty queen that had been around the block once. A beautiful girl who wasn't afraid of the outdoors. (never in bad weather) Then she stays indoors. I got her!
Born 1969. Spent time in her birth place a few years. Later imigrated to the US. Here she had a complete make over with extras! Thanks Gernold!! What a knockout! She has a 5spd box similar to her younger sister. Her features include A/C, full leather, euro lights, Becker EuropaII,aluminum wheels w/ hub caps, modern seatbelts, early style tail lamps, coco mats, hard & soft tops. We get along perfectly! I ask and she delivers!
Life is great! Especially in a Pagoda!!!
1969 280sl 5 spd 1999 ML320 Gainesville,Fl.
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Dear Fellow Owners,
Just a quick introduction. I have owned our triple green 69 since purchasing it at a Kump auction in August, 1972. I purchased the car for my mom, with dad's money, as the official car nut in the family.
It has served us well, first as a daily driver for my mom, then as a special event car brought out occasionally. My father helped start the St. Patrick's Day Parade here in Denver (second largest in the US), and being green, the car was in the parade for 16 years as the place of honor the Irish beauty queen would wave to the crowds.
My father past on 14 years ago, and the car passed to me.
I rarely drove the car for years, but began using it as a summer car about seven years ago. It was rear-ended, not to badly, in 98, but I thought that would be the time to freshen the old gal up.
Engine in 98. Body was redone in 99-2001. 30 years of use and the toll of entropy were attempted to be reversed. Originally a green metallic, now repainted in the Mercedes mica-flake green available in 99, which is a close match.
Now, after 33 years as her second owner and caretaker, I am the gray-haired driver of the vehicle.
The interior is the last part that needs to be brought up to the present, and have been struggling with the dearth of green interior parts availble. Mercedes told my dad years ago that there were only three triple green pagodas brought in to the US. Might be so, as this is the only one I have ever heard of.
My son and I showed the car at a show this weekend, and while driving there, we came up behind a cream 63 230 headed the same way. My son remarked that was the first time he had ever seen another pagoda on the road! We talked with the couple in the other car at the first light, and when we found they weren't on the way to the show, invited them to join us, which they did later. They also then joined the club. Of the hundreds of cars at the show, and the score of Mercedes, there were only 2 of the pagodas on display.
The 190sl next to me at the show mentioned there was a pagoda club, and I should belong. Realizing that this is a beauty worth preserving, and with my son pledging to take over the family vehicle when the time comes, I thought perhaps, now in the fourth decade of ownership, I would join you folks.
There are a few questions I might pose before long so as to best finish the restoration, but I just wanted to say hello, and let you know you have a new/old member in your midst.
Peri
69 triple green pagoda
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quote:
Originally posted by cees klumper
In order to give new members an easy opportunity to introduce themselves (if they feel so inclined) here's a place to do so. Tell us whatever you consider interesting ! :)
OK,
time has come for me to say hi. I am Juergen from Limburg,Germany (small place near Frankfurt). I bought a 1964 230sl in Texas in February and shipped it back to Germany. It's a beautiful signal red with a white hard top and black leather interior. The car spent the first 20 years of its life in Leyden, Holland, before it was brought over to Houston. It was never converted to American specs so I had absolutely no trouble getting German collector plates the first time I drove up to the TUEV people (German state inspection).
The lady I bought the car from hardly drove it anymore so a few things had to be replaced, seals, bearings, the usual. I have just completed a brake line and hose replacement (along with a brake booster - from what I have been reading, a lot of you folks have met with this fate too...). It feels good to be safe about the brakes because this engine sure likes to rock'n'roll!!! However, cruising at 90 km/h feels even better.
I have been reading the stuff in this forum for half a year now. What a great source of information it is. Thanks to Cees Klumper and Joachim Ahlert for providing me with valuable information on shipping etc.
To all the others: If you are half as happy driving your sl as I am driving mine, you are darn lucky people.
Juergen
64 230SL #2933, 4sp
93 Citroen XM station wagon
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Hi fellow devotees,
I live on the most easterly point of Australia and have been restoring a '64 230 SL over the past seven years in a labour of love.
I saw my first 113 climbing towards me up the Audley hill in Royal National Park in 1968, and transfixed watched it hug the ground into the distance, and never forgot it. White with navy blue roof.
Many years later I am now working on my own 113. It had rust in all the usual places, but was complete ,with a reconditioned motor and inj. pump.I couldn't afford a good example at the time I decided I needed to own one, so three years before purchase I decided I needed to get the skills to repair one myself, and ended up at tech college at night learning panelbeating and spray painting and loved it.
Thanks to that training I have made all the floor panels, wing repairs, battery cradle, fuel pump shield,etc etc. The car has given me countless hours of pleasure and satisfaction and I look forward to driving it.
All other parts are new or reconditioned and await bodywork and paint to be finished.
It will be Dark Blue, Grey MB Tex, dark blue soft top , white roof.
A re-build restoration means everything is dismantled so I hope I can be a usefull contributor to this wonderful pool of knowledge that this and other like forums provide. It has been a huge help with my project.
Roll on 113's.
Mike Heagney.
' 64 230 SL Auto RHD (in BITS)
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Hello All
My name is Dan Dittmar I live in San Clemente CA. I just bought a 1969 280 SL 4 speed manual transmision with a "street" street restoration. The more I drive the car the more in love with it I am. These forums are a great place to exchange information and I am looking forward to learning from all of you.
Dan
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Hello, I´m Thomas.
My car is a 66` 230 Sl Autom., two tone 670 ivory body with 040 black top and hub-caps and black MB-Tex interior. First orig.
engine. (124k Km`s).
It is my 3rd Pagoda. My 1st Pagoda was a 904 dark-blue beauty, but the base was too bad. As I did not want to strip it for a full restoration, I drove it for a couple of years and sold it to a car-
dealer.
My 2nd one was a 576 dark red 280 SL in perfect showroom condition.
I also sold it after 2 years, because this car was too good to drive. I`m not someone, who use the car only for Club-Events. I want to drive it... whenever I got time :-)
Finally the present one was the one that made me happy, because it represents an unrestored condition comparable to a good
ten year old used Mercedes.
I replaced only the softtop into a new "Sonnenland" dark grey coloured one. I also installed (orig.) headrests
and modern style aut. seatbelts.
Have a nice weekend,
Tom
www.pagode.info
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Hi, my name is Joe.
I have a 1971 280SL. It is a matching numbers original Southern California beauty, 904 dark blue with parchment leather interior. I have learned a lot from the messages and replies on this site. I look forward to some fun pagoda events down the road!
Thank you.
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Hi,
Another Belgian story, a little similar story to Cees. Not a good mechanic myself, but love open cars, soccer (football in Europe) and golf. It all started in 1987 with a Lancia Beta Spider of 1981. Fantastic engine with double carburator. Very rusty in 1992, very expensive and hard to get parts, so decided to sell, and bought an MGB 1979. Still have it, but is for sale now. Technically OK, but as I want to make longer trips in summer holidays I wanted a bigger engine and somehow more reliable. So here I am, owner of a 1966 Pagode (on purpose the same birthyear!) since last week. We will grow old together....
Starting to learn the ropes.... Cees, would love to get in touch, you seem to know a lot about it. Have already questions on headrests, taillights and son on (see forum).
Kind regards
Marnix
1966 230SL
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Hi, my name is Craig.
I'm a pleased and happy owner of a beautiful silver/black 1970 280SL. Douglas in NY was nice enough to agree to part with his car, and his sharp 280SL fit my interests perfectly! It's a Euro model, 4-speed, leather, and it's in wonderful condition. 72K miles, original (but for a repaint in '86), and it has the 5-pc. factory luggage set.
My love for 280SL's begin in high school when a family friend asked me to help him prepare his Mercedes 280SL, 300SL roadster, and '56 300SC Roadster for concours. They were all gorgeous cars. (The 300SC is now in a museum in Germany) And then he let me drive the 280SL to the show!! I was smitten, so it's a dream come true to drive and enjoy the 3000 rpm purr of my own 280SL.
I showed the car at Seattle section gathering this summer on a beautiful sunny day, and it attracted much interest and many favorable comments. It was just a blast to be there and enjoy the wonderful cars and people. :D
I have begun a list of questions, so I'm looking forward to more discussions in your great forum!
Craig in Bellevue, WA
Silver '70 280SL Euro 4sp
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Craig,
It's great to see your name in this forum. I think you'll find the level of expertise here to far exceed any Mercedes Club event. Yes, there are a few club members who know something about our cars, but they're spread all over the country, so one of the only places you can actually reach these diehard enthusiasts is right here.
I'm delighted to hear that you're enjoying #018260. I'm proud to say I owned it for 9 years and am pleased that it's in good hands.
A few weeks after parting with the silver SL, I purchased yet another 280 SL. Look for more details & pix of this car in a future posting.
In any event, I look forward to your questions, anecdotes, and participation in this forum. You're in good company here.
Douglas Kim
New York, NY
280 SL #016220
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I've been a Pagoda owner and an MBCA member since 1986 when I bought my first 66 230 SL. My Dad is a Benz lover and in 1982 when I was about to go to college he gave me his 67 250 SE that he had completetly worn out as a daily driver. I spent so many hours underneath the car at Henry Janzen's Mercedes shop in Fort Worth, Texas that Henry offered me a job. I saw my first Pagoda come into the shop on July 7th 1982 and in comparison to every other car that we worked on, (and we saw them all)the pagoda was the one that I vowed I would have some day.
My good friend and teacher, Henry, has since passed away. I now own two 66 230 SL's and a 69 280 SE. My first SL is a U.S. 4 speed and my second, a euro automatic. I have only had time to preserve the 4 speed so that I can continue to drive it when I have time away from corporate travel hell. It has almost exactly 100K miles but has never never failed to respond to a charged battery and new fuel when I need some "road therapy". All I've had time to do to the euro at this point is dismantle and prepare it for some interesting retro-fitting experiments that I am currently designing.
I intend to work on, drive and generally enjoy all of my cars for as long as I am able.
Mikey
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Hello, everyone! I am glad to have met a fine group of people that share my interest in Pagodas. I was asked to provide some backgrouund on myself and my interest in the SL's, so here it goes, for whatever it's worth:
On a personal level, I am Guatemalan born and raised. Went to university in the US (Cornell, Northwestern), where I trained as an anginner and got my MBA. Have spent my entire carreer in Latin American banking, working stints in Caracas, Santiago, Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Guatemala, New York, Miami and, since two years ago, Panama. I am the CEO of a regional bank call Bladex, listed in the New York Stock exchane (BLX), owned mostly by American and European stockholers(www.blx.com.)I am 51 years old, feel 100, divorced and remarried, have two sons,the eldest of which attends the US Naval Academy, and the youngest lives with my ex in Miami, spending lots of money chasing girls.
My interest in Pagodas got started when I was 15 or so. A friend's father had one. They were quite rare in Latin America (mine is the only one in Panama), so I could never find one. Along the way, found some solace in a 1974 BMW 2001 Tii, which I had rebuild in the late 80's. Had to sell it (huge mistake) when I moved to the US, as it had no emission controls...
When I eventually moved to Miami, I decided to give my Pagoda dream a try again. Got to the Internet and found one in NY, a few miles from where I had just moved from! 1971, blue. Nearly flawless. I used the car in Miami as my day car. Any problems I had, a local shop took care of (I am reasonably good at programming and doing Photoshop, but am totally inept when it comes to working on engines). Brough it to Panama, and it started giving me trouble. Long story short: have had the local MB shop rebuild just about the entire engine (injection pump included), and am still having trouble! Cold (non)starts, specifically. I read your literature on the subject, and will start by looking into the CSV this weekend --- if I can find the darn thing! From what I have seen so far, it's apparent to me already that the car needs lots of adjustments. Will have to learn, I guess.
So that's it. Sorry about the verbosity. Look forward to making friends.
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Hey Jaime,
Welcome to the greatest and friendliest bunch of people on the internet. This group is attitude free and always informative, helpful, supportive, opinionated (and why not?) but we always welcome everyones input.
When I joined the original Yahoo site, I didn't own a car but I read every post made by the members and I learned quickly. Eventually I felt confident enough to buy a car.
You should also be aware of the other internet site that has a lot of the same list members as here.
It, too, has a very good knowledge base which you can browse. http://pagoda113.com/
What ever you need to know about, be it correct screw size or how to adjust the air/fuel mixture, someone will have discussed it or someone will benefit from the discussion of it, so please feel free to 'Search' this web site for your enquiry first and if you don't find a discussion topic suitable please post a new one.
Bob (Brisbane,Australia)
RHD,1967 early 250 SL, auto
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Here's an introduction I received yesterday from a member in Uruguay, Mr. Guillermo Deal, and he was kind enough to give me permission to post it here. His car will be in the 40th anniversary poster:
"Please find here below a brief history of my car.
Uruguay is a small country located in South America between Brazil and Argentina. Montevideo is the capital and Punta del Este, where its plates are registered, is a summer resort. Its plate number ends in 230 like the model (B-543 - 230).
There are not too many SL's in my country so I know all of them. It is not easy to obtain one since owners do not want to sell their cars.
I know my car since it was imported to Uruguay in November 1966. The first owner was the father of a classmate, so when I was 11 years old I always saw the car parked in front of my school. Later on October 15, 1974 the car was sold to Mr. Peter Buschner who kept the car until September 5, 1996.
Mr. Buschner sold the car to Mr. Carlos Martinez Penino who sold the car to me last year on November 15. Fortunately I know all previous owners and I can say that I followed the car during all its life.
When I bought the car it came with all its original manuals (Mercedes Benz Type 230 SL catalog B, Service Booklet, Service Instructions, Service Afrika-Amerika-Asien-Australien, Becker autoradio manual, Becker Warranty Ticket, Richard Hirschmann certification, Mercedes Benz Amerika Stations Service Map, Sales and Service Organization for Bosch Products Aboard, etc.)
I am a member of the Montevideo Classic Car Club, and I own some other classic cars (Porsche 911 S 1976, Jeep M38 1953, Volkswagen Beetle 1954 and Ford Model A Roadster 1931) but this Mercedes is really the car I like most.
This 230 SL has both tops, its original green colour and black leather interior and its original Becker Mexico radio. Wheels are not original, they belong to a later model. Its odometer indicates 54.000 Kilometers and according with information I have the car has a total 154.000 kilometers, approx 96.000 Miles. Despite that the car is in very good condition, it is 38 years old and I just started a total and professional restoration.
I have 3 friends who also owns SL's, one of them is also a 230 SL but from 1965, the other one is a 280 SL from 1968 ( California model ) and the last one a 280 SL from 1969 with a 5 ZF Gear box. All these cars were restored."
Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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There are some wonderful old cars in Uruguay, particularly around Montevideo, Punta del Este and Periopolis. I hope I am spelling these right! My wife is from Chile and works at the Organization of American States and knows a number of Uruguayans, both there and here. We have visited friends in Montivideo and the coastal area. It is great to see all the old cars kept up and used the way they do in Uruguay. The climate also is very kind to cars there which helps!
Welcome to the group.
- 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, my name is Home Gabbay and just joined your group and happy to have the same interest with all. I am in love with all classic m/Benz and have 3 as mentioned in my profile. But the best of them all is my 1968 280SL.
I am the 2nd owner. Bought the car about 23 years ago from an American general who had the car orderd for his wife and brought the car with him after his sevice for the US army was finished.The car is silver with navy blue leather and navy soft top all original with 145,000 miles. I, must have put 100,000 miles on it myself.
The car is all original and had the car fully restored about 18 years back and just this last Octobe had it all repainted once again, considering changing the carpet & the wood trim as well since there is some sun damage. It can be a show car but I, like my cars to drive and more I, drive them better they get!
This is my 2nd SL. My 1ST was a 1965 250SL green/tan. Also got the car from the 1st owner, which cost me us $5500. I 1980 after the full restoration on the 1st day, had the car totaled in a car accedent, which broke my heart.
There is a long history how I, have the love for this cars since I, was 15 years old and now at 48 is the only crazy passion other then the wife+kids and the job to pay for these toys.
Best Regds, Home
Homayoun Gabbay
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Welcome to the Group Homayoun! You probably own your SL longer than almost all of us. If you get a chance, maybe you can post some pictures for us in the Photo Gallery section.
There are many fellow-Pagodeans in the New York metropolitan area; most likely there will be another event like the West Point meet organized by Richard Madison this year.
Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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Hi my name is Matthew Kois and I would like to tell you alittle about myself and my car.
For as long as I can remember back to in my life as a kid, I always remebered the summer time. It was my favorite time of the year, not becuase of camp or sports or NO SCHOOL, because of the Mercedes that stayed in the garge all summer long! A 1965 230 SL Navy Blue with saddle interior and of course the white invory steering wheel!
I loved that car and had the best times with my father in it. Well when I was about 14 my parents decided brookyln was not the place to raise my sister and I. So we moved out to Long Island but because of a need for money for this move dad had to sell his 230sl. I told my dad the day it sold, I will have one of my own and I'll drive you around.
Since then I've been a car nut really getting into the corvettes. So I always looked through the papers and online since I got my license but nothing. So over the years I've had my share of cars imports, vettes etc but other things have also changed over the years, my fathers health. We just can do the thing we used to anymore (he's always in pain and no doctor know whats wrong with him) But last month as I was driving in up state new york in the middle, then out of the corner of my eye I see the grille, I just had to look. So I turned around and pulled in.
A 67 250 SL Light blue with saddle and the hard top on. I got chills, this was the car that I had to have. I went in the store to find the owner. A 86 year old women, she told me it was her husband car, he bought it NEW! I asked "is it for sale" she said NO. I then started to walk away when I hear a little voice said wait! She asked me why would a young man like me want a car like that. So I told my story.... And now that 67 250 sl is in my garge.
And when my dad say it for the first time we almost cried and said "I'm proud of you" It meant a lot! So winter is here and it's time to start stripping this car because it has to be navy blue, no other color will do! Thank you for reading my story about my soon to be 67 250sl navy blue w/saddle. Who's the youngest owner on this site anyways ? I'm only 22 years old and I'mm a 100% car NUT!
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quote:
Originally posted by hands_aus
Hey Jaime,
Welcome to the greatest and friendliest bunch of people on the internet. This group is attitude free and always informative, helpful, supportive, opinionated (and why not?) but we always welcome everyones input.
When I joined the original Yahoo site, I didn't own a car but I read every post made by the members and I learned quickly. Eventually I felt confident enough to buy a car.
You should also be aware of the other internet site that has a lot of the same list members as here.
It, too, has a very good knowledge base which you can browse. http://pagoda113.com/
What ever you need to know about, be it correct screw size or how to adjust the air/fuel mixture, someone will have discussed it or someone will benefit from the discussion of it, so please feel free to 'Search' this web site for your enquiry first and if you don't find a discussion topic suitable please post a new one.
Bob (Brisbane,Australia)
RHD,1967 early 250 SL, auto
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Hello All,
My name is Jason and I am a proud new owner of a 64 euro 230sl, 4 speed. I had been looking off and on for one for about 6 months and came accross one that is thought looked great. Just the right color exterior and interior, car was in great shape with no rust, really clean.
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I will be lurking looking for a 280SL. The purchase is contengent on the sale of my 1958 Jaguar XK150 Roadster. Asking $106,000 US. Will trade for a nice 280SL and $50,000 US. Also own 02 C32 and 03 ML350. Been driving MB for over 20 years and love them. Hope tp be an owner of a 280SL soon! Anyone interested in the Jaguar email me! thanks
LjH :)
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LjH,
Always admired that model/year. What is the condition of the car you are looking to trade? I am not an expert on that model/year but I have not seen any clear the market at that level.
Best,
Tom
1971 280sl Tunis Beige Metallic (restored & enhanced)
1971 280sl Tobacco Brown (low mileage stock)
1970 280sl Deep Red (Project Car)
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I am willing to trade for a solid W133 driver and $50,000 US. I understand 280SL's are not bringing that much however I really want one. The XK150S is a stunning car and after the restoration I found I did not enjoy driving it.
Let me know if you have additional questions
Ljhquote:
Originally posted by Tom
LjH,
Always admired that model/year. What is the condition of the car you are looking to trade? I am not an expert on that model/year but I have not seen any clear the market at that level.
Best,
Tom
1971 280sl Tunis Beige Metallic (restored & enhanced)
1971 280sl Tobacco Brown (low mileage stock)
1970 280sl Deep Red (Project Car)
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LjH,
A fully restored XK150S is quite a nice automobile. I understand the pricing better now-thanks
1971 280sl Tunis Beige Metallic (restored & enhanced)
1971 280sl Tobacco Brown (low mileage stock)
1970 280sl Deep Red (Project Car)
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Fellow 113 Lovers,
I'm brand new to this forum, but not new to 113's. I owned a 1969 "California Coupe" for a number of years and was a member of MBCA during that time. I moved back to my native Texas from Santa Barbara, Ca. in 1995 and found the MB, sans A/C, wasn't very practical in the hot Texas summers, so I got a second car for everyday use. After a couple of years of having one of our three cars (of course not the 113) parked outside of our two car garage, I allowed my wife to use my MB as a trade in on a 300 SL. Every time thereafter that I saw a 113 on the road, I had regrets for having sacrificed mine.
Recently, the nostalgia due to fond thoughts of 113's finally got to me, I bit the bullet and bought a 1971 280 SL. Once I've made better acquaintenance with my new love, I'll describe her better (Is it OK here to refer to one's 113 as a feminine entity?) For now all I'll say is the she's white.
Personally, I'm a mechanical engineer by education and practice. I retired early, last Summer, in order to build a major addition on our home which by odd coincidence is much more classic car friendly. The new addition will also have space for my two other serious hobbys. One is motorcycles, I have three, and the other is high quality air rifles, I have more than a hundred. Those two hobbys have been with me for most of my life. The other hobby that consumed me was flying. I owned an airplane for over twenty years and flew coast to coast in the USA, and Canada to Costa Rica and many places in between. I sold the airplane almost two years ago as I wasn't flying enough to feel comfortable, especially in instrument conditions. I miss having that "magic carpet", but think my new, to me, 113 might be a fine substitute. Instead of heading to Oskosh, Wisconsin for the annual airshow there, I look forward to attending MB events.
The above is more than you probably want to know about me so I'll confine my future comments to 113's. I'm a veteran of airgun and motorcycle forums and know brevity is usually appreciated.
I'm glad to be aboard your group.
chasm
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So she is a sexy, single, white, 34 year old German girl with a removable top? Please post some photos at your first convenience!
Welcome to the Group, Chasm. You have found a great bunch of Pagoda lovers.
Ed Cave
Atlanta, GA
1964 356C
1971 280SL
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Ed,
Thanks for the response. As often happens, I've discovered that my new 33 year old, white, German girlfriend, may not be all she seems. On checking out her data sheet, it seems like she might be hiding some of her checkered past. She may not be as virginal as I had hoped. Oh well, neither am I.
I'm willing to forgive and forget, if she is. If she looks good on the surface, I'll be happy to show her around. And to heck with those who want to disparage her past history.
chasm
P.S. She is a 703 delivery code, "American Virgin Islands".
Talk about false advertising!. cm
chasm
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Thanks for the opportunities guys. I am brand new to the W113 (although I've read about them for a while).
Just bought a 65 230sl here in Hong Kong last weekend. Not too many of them around here but fortunately found one decent one. Will need a lot of work but it's an honest car.
Took half an hour to reverse the thing out of the seller's yard (not used to no power steering and the clutch). Drove all the way back with the hand brake on but it was a fun experience. Also had to really rush home because we (a friend also went along) couldn't figure out how to turn on the lights! (My wife figured it out later).
Anyway, I will be seeking a lot of advice from you experts since I don't know any Pagoda owners here in HK. Won't be easy restoring it since there are some few of them here so I will need all the advice I can get. Thanks for this great website.
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Hello all I too am new to the forum just purchasing a restoration project car. 67 250sl with no engine. If my wife doesn't divorce me it will be a miracle. I will need much help as I am a back yard mechanic with ltd. knowledge of the sl. All advice is welcome. I need immediatley if anyone has access is some sort of wiring schematic color coding the wires since the person who disassembled the car didn't label any thing. Thanks D
darryl
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Hello all,
I am Alain from Geneva, Switzerland. I am new to this forum and relatively new to W113s, as I bought my car about one year ago.
I love old cars and motorcycles. My last vintage car was a Triumph TR 250 but I wanted more confort for my old 43 years old bones.
I have found a '68 280 SL in very good original condition, with 122.000 documented kilometers on the clock. I am the fourth owner. The body color is light blue metallic 906, the interior is navy blue leather. It has power steering, 4 speed gearchange, a Becker Europa radio. I have had 3 points inertia seatbelts and a righthand side rearview mirror recently installed.
I am very happy with it as it runs well but needs new suspension bushings. I must treat the leather which is a bit dry whith some patina.
I use the services of a independant mechanic who knows well old MBs. He told me the car is in very good condition, even in non visible places.
It will be nice to have technical chats here, as you guys in this forum seems to know your subject.
I attach a picture of my car shooted during a run last summer. Best regards. Alain.
Download Attachment: (http://images/icon_paperclip.gif) Copie2 280 SL.jpg (http://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/rentsch1961/200519123437_Copie2%20280%20SL.jpg)
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alain
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I bought my car from Stahl Motor Company in Monterey, California December of 1971. It had 29,000 miles on it then; now has 146,000. Very near original. Anything worked on has been done to original finishes, etc. We have been members of MBCA since 9/73. The car has won a few shows over the years. I have done almost everything the car needed. I'm a Marine Engineer. I spent 23 years at sea, 15 as Chief Engineer on US flag steam and diesel merchant ships.
Vince Canepa
1967 250SL
113.043-10-001543
568H Signal Red
116 Caviar MB-Tex
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Greetings, Gentlemen.
My name is Jim Hunter, from Ottawa Canada. I am a new member of the forum as of yesterday, and a new MB owner as well, having bought my 1970 280SL "California" model at the end of November as a 65th birthday present to myself. I have wanted an SL ever since they were new. My 280SL is the dark green colour, and is in absolutely immaculate condition with 89K km. I hope to install a convertible top on it eventually, and will probably have a lot of questions once I start the installation in earnest.
My other hobby is the restoration of vintage motorcycles, British and European. Current machines are: 1950 Sunbeam S7 Deluxe, 1954 Ariel Huntmaster 650, 1956 Ariel HT5, 1957 Ariel Square Four, 1959 BSA Catalina Gold Star, and a 1967 BMW R-60. My modern bike is a 2001 Honda ST1100. I am currently restoring a 1934 Ariel Red Hunter 500 and a 1956 Ariel Square Four for friends of mine. Incidentally, if anyone has similar machines or questions, please feel free to contact me.
After 47 years of motorcycling, I bought the Benz because I needed a change. This car has always been the car of my dreams. I won't take delivery of the car until April, as the dealer offered free storage in his showroom until April, when I will bring it home. I only got to put about 20 miles on it before it went into storage, and the wait until April is killing me. I don't have any photos yet, but will post one later this spring.
As far as my professional background, I retired from the Royal Canadian Airforce as a Chief Warrant Officer after 31 years, and on retirement; went with General Electric Aircraft Engines as a Field Service Rep for a further 12 years until I retired in 1999.
I have been lurking on this group for a couple of months now, and have noticed how friendly and helpful the members seem to be. That's my kind of group, and thats why I decided to join.
Best Regards,
Jim Hunter, Ottawa Canada
quote:
Originally posted by cees klumper
In order to give new members an easy opportunity to introduce themselves (if they feel so inclined) here's a place to do so. Tell us whatever you consider interesting ! :)
JLHunter
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quote:
Originally posted by Jim
I have been lurking on this group for a couple of months now, and have noticed how friendly and helpful the members seem to be. That's my kind of group, and thats why I decided to join.
I completely agree with you. Welcome to the Group!
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
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My name is Kevin and am in Boca Raton, FL. After owning a '73 280 C in the '80s and a couple of 190 E's in the 90's, I decided to go for a 113 due to the classic appearence and availability of (some) well-cared for used vehicles and parts. My Light Ivory (670) '67 230 SL arrived on 1/10 from Napa CA where it had been very well maintained. The car has 132k on the chassis but only 14k since a complete engine rebuild. I am working out some interior (113 Brown) cosmetic issues now and will post photos when presentable. Hope to not over-burden you with newbie questions.
Now can anyone float a loan so I can buy some sunvisors?
KevinC - Boca Raton FL (74 and rainy today, but 82 and sunny earlier this week!)
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Greetings to all
My name is Ion Mitchell and I live in Twickenham, England (a suburb of London). I moved here from Los Angeles in 1988 with the intention of staying for only three years. 17 years later I'm still here, having married to a Scot and acquired dual nationality. The only problem is that I left my original girlfriend, my brown-eyed 280SL, in Los Angeles in a dusty warehouse, thinking I wouldn't be gone for very long. After a while I missed having her around. I was her second owner and worked hard to have her restored.
So last November I decided to bite the bullet and have the car shipped to London. There were some minor modifications to conform to UK regulations, but she is now a legitimate resident of Britain. It's great to have her back in my driveway, but she does look a bit rough after multiple mechanics worked on her to keep her ticking over (its a long story). So I had decided to try and repair her as best I can
That's when I discovered this excellent forum. After lurking a few days and searching for some missing bits (sun visors, gas/petrol caps, touchup paint, steering bushings,etc) I decided to join in. There's no time to waste. It may be dark now at 4.00 in the afternoon but spring is around the corner and this car has to be ready.
Cheers
Ion Mitchell
Twickenham, England
1971 280SL automatic
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Warm greetings.
I recently joind the group after having bought my 68 280sl as a 40th christmas gift to myself. I've always wanted a vintage/classic car and I am in the process ofrestgoring a w108 and a karmann ghia.
The 280 sl is in excellent condition. All original; Frigiking, becker europa, hirschman automaitc antenna, power steering, automatic tranny, carpets and has 119ooo original kilometers. Mine is a euro version brought in the US so was changed to a US version. The beauty of it is that I have the euro hot cam.
Other hobbies include collecting art and breeding parrots.
I look forward to interacting with all of you in tihs forum.
Warm regards,
Joelj
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hey, my name is Jose Villareal and I live just south of San Antonio Texas. Just purchased a 1966 230 sl with hardtop and softtop. I am attempting to finish a project someone abandoned. The engine is already out along with the trans and diff. Car is in the process of being back halved and a narrowed 8.8 with disc brakes and 4.30 gears are going in. Engine going in is a zz5 crate motor with 430 hp. Let see what happens.
I know there are alot of people not thrilled with this as they are pretty hard to find cars.
Have lots of parts for sale.
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Hello,
I'm in austin texas. Last month I shipped my fathers 230 sl from honolulu hawaii to austin. I eventually plan to fully restore the car.
I have two other mercedes, a 78 300d and an 98 c 230.
I'm looking forward to participating in the forum. However, I will probably be asking more questions than answering.
thanks
matt
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Howdy!
Former owner of an Aquablau (917, what a color!) '72 280sel4.5, RIP :evil: ... I am convinced that the mid–sixties to early 70's (i.e up to and including 1972) Benzes are the best cars ever made.
Anyway, I hope to acquire a 250sl or 280sl in the next year or so and wanted to get started doing my research. Looking forward to learning much and posting a few stupid questions. TIA for any help that may/will be forthcoming! Any links etc. toward "How to Buy a 113" websites would be greatly appreciated!
GOES211
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quote:
Originally posted by GOES211
Howdy!
...Looking forward to learning much and posting a few stupid questions...
The only stupid question is the one you don't ask!
Welcome aboard!
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
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Hello,
Finally , I am now an OWNER of a Pagoda.
It is a 1967 250sl with a 5 spd ZF transmission.
The car drives well but does need some work.
I hope this is the beginning of a life long hobby.
Thank you everybody for your help
Arjun
67 250sl 5-sp Manual
New York
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Arjun,
Let's see some pix of that new baby.
Douglas Kim
New York, NY
280 SL #016220
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Douglas,
I tried, but i guess the file size is too big.
I do not know how to work around it.
It is an Ivory with Blue MBtex and it is the Italian version.
Since the picture (not shown) I have had the car changed to alloy wheels.. It drives fine. Now to make the list of things to do
Arjun
1967 250sl 5-spd
New York
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Here's Arjun's "new" 250 SL:
Download Attachment: (http://images/icon_paperclip.gif) wht250.jpg (http://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/douglas/2005324184425_wht250.jpg)
64.37 KB
Douglas Kim
New York, NY
280 SL #016220
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Hi - new to sl113.org, but was on the yahoo group before; I see a lot of familiar names here. I've had my 250SL for ~6 years now, and have been having a great time with it. I recently acquired a new diversion (a 560SEC) which has kept me away from the roadster for a while/during the rainy season here.
But I'm back in the saddle again, and was happy to find this forum, as the yahoo one was not as easy to use/navigate. I've learned a lot in the past from the other forum, and am hoping that I can contribute a little bit too. Nothing big to talk about yet except a bit of carpet work, but I'll post some pics soon. In the meantime, here's my favourite shot of my '67:
(http://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/rico_vancouver/2005327235540_sepia.jpg)
Cheers,
Rich
'67 250SL
'87 560SEC Euro Spec
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Hello All. Yes, I finally did it. I decided that there was entirely too much cash in my retirement account, and I needed to liberate some of those dollars and buy a Pagoda. Wanted one since the 60's, and I have found a pristine example from a retired couple here in Arizona. They bought it in 1972. It has the original welds on the fenders, original virgin metal on all four corners, original wood, original MB Tex Red interior, all original chrome, clock that works, radio that works, that under-dash A/C from new that works very well, books, records, Dealer Guide, aluminum plate, (born 02/28/1968) tool kit, even the spare is a Firestone Phoenix with the red stripe, never been on the ground. The only thing non-original is that it seems to have been painted by a drunk Navy Sea-Bee, with 15 gallons of Grey Hull Paint. (Well not that bad, but it did get "painted" instead of "re-finished".) This error is gonna be costly I am sure. Even all the original rubber seals are in good shape. Still has original (but fragile) soft top. The car was stored extreemely well, and since it's rumplestilskin like emergence into the new world, it has had excellent care. The only thing my mechanic could find wrong was rear seals. Oh well, my Harley & my dog mark thier spot also.
The mechanic was amazed at the original condition of this survivor, and so was I. The car had alot of sentimental value to the former family. I didnt pay anywhere near what E-Bay E-Diots are paying for rust bucket 113's. This W113 has zero rust.
Will post a few pics soon. I am excited about my new hobby.
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AZ_68_250_NoRust:
Please do post the pictures! We are always looking to see photos of cars that have a good provenance. Also, take some photos of the less than usual spots, wheel wells, rocker panels, engine shots, etc.
And yes, Welcome to the group!
Jonny B
1967 250SL Auto
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Hello all
I finally did it - about six months ago - purchased a 1966 230 SL auto
Horizon blue with a mid blue hard top
I have wanted one from when I was around 15 years old (now 31!) and finally bought one after searching for a few months for the right one.
The body and interior are in very good condition and also mechanically very sound. Since I got it I got the cylinder head rebuilt - which I knew I had to do before I bought it.
I wanted to upload some pictures but was unable to due to their size.
Speak soon
Mubeen
Melbourne, Australia
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Ok, please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Bas and I live in the Netherlands. After looking for a decently priced and good Pagoda for 2 years, I recently bought this '64 230 in..... my home town. Altough not completely original (engine from a 280, resprayed in non-original colour, interior partly of 280) it looks neat and runs well. Well, I learned a lot from you guys already by reading this forum over the last couple of weeks, and I hope to meet some of you in person some day (Cees, don't let go of that idea to have a meeting in the Netherlands sometime soon, and thank's again for the poster!)
Bas
Download Attachment: (http://images/icon_paperclip.gif) pagode.JPG (http://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/bas/200562415465_pagode.JPG)
28.55 KB
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Hi all,
I live here is beautiful (not so sunny) Seattle, WA. USA. I bought my white 64 230 sl last year as a birthday present for myself. I initially logged in to see if I could find 113 enthusiasts local to this area, but have had fun seeing owners and their cars from all over the world.
The posted information I've read through so far have been very helpful as I'm relatively new to owning the car. Restoration/maintenance and parts aquisition information is of interest.
-Vicki D
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Hi Vicki. Glad you found us! I love your car. It allows me to see what my white/blue combo would resemble with white wheels and covers. (mine has blue ones)... What color is your hardtop?
James
63 230SL
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quote:
Originally posted by J. Huber
Hi Vicki. Glad you found us! I love your car. It allows me to see what my white/blue combo would resemble with white wheels and covers. (mine has blue ones)... What color is your hardtop?
James
63 230SL
Vicki: It has a white hard top that matches the body color --it's all white in the winter (sorry, I don't have a photo of the car with the hard top on). The only anomaly is a new/replacement steering wheel, which is black (I want to switch it out for a white one). The interior is a light blue.
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Hi, my name is Terence Dittman, and I just bought a 1970 280sl from Vermont. I live in Quebec, Canada, about an hours drive northeast of Montreal. I am an avid car collector . I have a 1969 300 SEL 6.3, currently undergoing a very slow restoration, and two Innocenti DeTomaso's, although one is for parts. I have been a Mercedes fan ever since I can remember, and I owned a 1962 220SEL when I was 16, and I loved it. I inherited my love for cars from my father, who is a british car nut (I think he has 7 now). I work in the cellular phone industry. I welcome any member who is travelling in this region to stop by, my house is small but always open to fellow Pagoda owners. I am inexperienced mechanically, although I am not afraid to try. Hope to see you all at the shows, Terence
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With Cees and Peter's help I have at last registered myself onto your site, after many month's occasional look-ins to see what's happening here. My home base is Leicester in lovely England, and my car's there too. I work for an international hotel company based in Brussels and travel back and forth each week, sometimes several times.
Our car is a 1967 250SL auto, 050 white with a red tex interior, affectionately known as "Cherry-Pie" - red on the inside and white, just like Mum's pastry, on the outside ( ;) )! We've had her for nearly 3 years (after a 6 year on-and-off search) and regard it as a privilege to look after something lovely for the time-being, hoping to keep her well for whoever has her next.
I drive the car as much as I can, some for business, some for leisure - she's often a bit of an adventure and always a lot of fun ! It also seems to do her a lot of good : everything stays in running order, and if it doesn't, I find out about it pretty soon ! I show her too - people seem to like the car ... :)
I bring you greetings from the Mercedes-Benz Club in the UK - I know that a few here belong there too, including Naj. There, for what it's worth, I am the "Pagoda Register Captain" : all this means is I'm a point of contact and reference for any W113 queries and newbies, I've got a bit of a library of resources, I keep myself vaguely updated on issues arising, and I try to help and point people in the right directions. What it emphatically does NOT mean is that I know any more than anyone else on these things - quite the opposite infact !!
So : Hello all you Pagodas and Pagodettes - nice to be here ! Hope I can bring as much to the party here as you all seem to do, contribute as much and be of some small help ... :oops:
Richard -
W113 250SL '67
W123 280TE '85
W210 230E Estate '97
ex
W123 280TE '84
W123 230CE '82
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Hello, just purchased a 1968 280 SL and it just rolled into the driveway yesterday, so I'm both excited and disappointed. Excited in that I've wanted one of these all my life and finally got myself into a position where I could afford one, and disappointed in that, even though the car was represented as being "fully restored", it obviously needs a lot of work. So if anyone knows of a good source for parts, such as the interior pull for the hood latch, replacement seat belts, and other such stuff, let me know.
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Our 250SL was purchased new by my father in 1967. It was his pride and joy. With his passing the car is now mine. As it turns out my 24 year old daughter is engaged to a young man whose father runs an indep. MBZ repair shop in Ontario, California We just got the car back after a nose to tail mechanical refurbishing. I now have to get the trunk floor replaced (the only rust on the car) and eventually repainted to the stock blue color. I work for the state of California but in my spare time I am a professional wine judge and am the new director of the Pacfici Rim Intl. Wine Competition run by the National Orange Show (San Bernardino) My wife and I live in San Diego. (Any suggestions on places to do the trunk floor work are greatly appreciated)
Bob Foster, San Diego
67 250SL, automatic, field air, both tops, blue and blue, bought new by my father in Northern California
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My name is Leo, almost pensioned Insurance-brooker, born in Maastricht (The Netherlands), the town where Regan and Clinton did buy bonbons. (no joke: they actualy did :D ). At the age of 23, just starting working life after my study, I encountered a brandnew 250SL, driven by a well known directors-wife. I did not fall in love with the wife but with the car and made myself a promise ever to own such a car. But cruel as life is: career, wife, kids, house and so on did just allow me to drive Mercedes, but not the desired SL. I had to wait until 1996, where someone up-there took me to a place where a 250SL was stored, waiting for restauration. Believe it ore not: it was the 250SL from ages ago, driven by Mrs X and afterwards driven by her son in law untill it ended in a box, waiting for me [:p]. I did buy it (yes...to expensive...but what's the price of a dream ?). I got the original delivery-bill from the family, the history and even the factory-data on micro-fiche from Mercedes in Stuttgart. It took me three years to make a brandnew car out of it. To end this weird story: My wife and I live now in a street, just a 5 minuts walk away from the house where the 250SL found his first home :) . At last: I had a to busy life to use the car frequently, but that's changing now. Don't worry: my SL dream was already forfilled a bit, years ago, because I also kept my 450SL (R107) and for daily use my 500SL (R129).
I hope I did not bother you with this story ! (btw: Leike is slang-Dutch for Leo; Lb is Limburg; the state where I live) :oops:
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Hi, first post.
Always lusted after a 230SL. I have been living in Orlando, FL for 7 years now. Four years ago my wife's parents moved in with us.
My father-in-law and me are now looking for a car to spend some afternoon’s together fixing/maintaining... User j51q in this forum (Jimq in the Rennlist forums) pointed me to this website. Thank you Jim!!
So at the moment I am reading and familiarizing myself with what is like owning one of these babies… and from the looks of it, it is even more expensive than maintaining my ’91 Porsche…
There is one for sale close by for around US$13K and Jimq is also selling his (but has not given me a number… …maybe when he gets back from his trip).
Anyway, just wanted to say hi.
Back to reading the FAQ and posts on typical problems.
:)
Drive safe!
Wachuko
'87 Porsche 951
'91 Porsche 964 Cabriolet
'04 VW R32
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Hello,
I'm new to the list and wanted to say thank you much for the good help available here. I gave my newly-acquired 71 280SL to a Mercedes "expert" here in Western Washington to do an oil change, and to deal with heavy pinging on any kind of acceleration. Well, he left out the upper filter element seal (the "garden hose" seal) and the car still pings badly. Time to do it myself. The list educated me about the often missing seals for the oil filter and also how the distributor advance system works. I purchased the filter seals from my Mercedes dealer and my distributor is on its way to Dan Caron for overhaul. Couldn't have done it without you folks. I've attached a scan of the wiring schematic for the 062-type distributor retard relay box (for my car) that helped to analyse my ignition problems. Any corrections are welcomed.
Thanks,
Will N. Stevenson
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Hello
Finally cracked the computer code and become an active member.
I am a fairly recent Mercedes convert and having had the good fortune to buy and enjoy a mint "run out" 1989 107 420SL last year, took the plunge earlier this year and bought a 1969 280SL. My 280 was originally sold into the USA and then imported to the UK by a pagoda collector (he had 5!) in 2004. I have learned the hard way that it pays to have a pre-purchase inspection by an expert - although maybe the mud & snow tires should have given me a hint that not all Californian cars spend their lives cruising the promenade. But you know what it's like when you have made up your mind to buy something and, other in that most vivid dream just before you wake up, has any one of you ever had the barn door opened and been invited to make first choice from 5 pagodas.
Anyway, my 280 has now been thoroughly sorted mechanically by the maestros Paul and Steff Mazzoni of Merparts in Port Glasgow - they will be well known to MBUK owners club members - and I have greatly enjoyed driving the car throughout the summer. It is so much sharper than the 107 and because you sit much lower in the 113 is a much more comfortable roadster. And we are talking Scottish summer here so wind chill is a serious issue.
This website is fantastic. My sincere thanks to everyone who takes the time to contribute their knowledge. I have learned so much about my car and have been inspired to continue with the restoration of my car. This winter's project is to restore the interior and I will be back for advice. Although I will try hard not to ask what we in Scotland call "daft laddie" questions - please be patient with me.
Kind regards
Andrew
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new member here - Just bought a 1970 280 sl in beautiful condition. Have wanted one for a while and finally took the plunge. Looking forward to learning a lot from the experts in this group. Can anyone recommend a mechanic in the NY/CT area for service and repairs. Thanks!
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AGT - Paul Mazzoni, isn't he the chap who specialises in 16-valve 190's and advises on tech stuff in the UK club? Anyway welcome to all new members who joined lately. You've definitely come to the right place for "all things Pagoda".
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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Cees
Yes this is the same guy. Mechanically, my Pagoda was in a pretty sorry state and Merparts gave it a thorough overhaul. Paul and Stefano have a real passion for all interesting Mercedes motor cars and I am very pleased with the way that my Pagoda now drives, steers, rides and stops.
Now that the car drives properly the difficult decision is whether to continue with my "investment" and restore the body and interior. In retrospect, I should have bought a better car with a history as this way round seems the expensive way to do it - although I am saving one of these wonderful cars for the good of all mankind.
Regards
Andrew
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Press on Andrew - although there are widely varying expense levels you can go to. Example is when I took my car to get a quote for some bodywork and a respray a few years back, the specialized shop with the guys in the white overalls quoted EUR 9,000 (GBP 6,000 I guess) whereas the shop that I actually had doing the (exact same) work, not in the best part of town but with guys who know how to do a job for the least amount of money (because that is all they and their customers can afford) did the job quite to my satisfaction for EUR 900. 10% of the cost for 90-95% of the quality-level. So it pays to shop.
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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hi new owner and member!!!
just purchased my 1967 250sl pagoda from ebay....{i know, i can hear people screaming noooo}
i picked it up from the shipping terminal in the pouring rain, the car was full of water from where the hard top seals have perished.
The car started..only just.. and i drove it back firing on about 3 cylinders..the interior was shot to bits which i knew about!!!These car sellers are very clever people at the wording they use! The car had been owned by the same lady since 1972 and had been serviced well since she owned it.Had everything done including engine rebuild suspension, paint ect.After a clean, dryout and inspection of her i found it to be very genuine, six new plugs she fired up and purrs like a kitten!!!!interior and restoration to come!!!i tried to upload pic but file was too big!! i will try to down size..Looking forward to speasking and hopefully meeting some of you folks!!!
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hi,i am the happy owner of 230 sl,250sl comming next week,i hope from u.s. and 280sl also american model.
the 250sl and 280 sl are bought from the first owners and the 230sl is restored in holland and romania,was bought from new zeeland (europeean model).
next month i hope to send you photos with all of them.
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Welcome Gabriel, you are I believe the first member in Romania. Besides your three cars, are there many other Pagodas in your country?
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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there are anoter 4 in romania
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Hello to everyone on the Pagoda Group. My name is Jim Lambert and I live
in Glasgow, Scotland ...... I am restoring a 64' 230sl which I have
owned since 1987. After many enjoable years of motoring in the car I
decided, in 2000 to give it a 'spruce up', which turned into a full chassis up rebuild (including the outer chassis halves !!! ouch) I am
finally nearing the ready to paint stage and chanced upon your group while browsing for new rubber bits... I have undertaken all of the rebuild in my rather cramped garage, but have managed to source all
of the original panels new over the course of two years,I look forward to contributing to the group and will be looking for advice as I seem
to have forgotten where lots of the boxed bits are supposed to go...
Best wishes ..... Jim Lambert... P.S. My dailt transport in Glasgow is
a 1947 Indian Chief... hence the Indianjim handle..... SEEYA
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Hello,
My name is Richard Sturman.I have owned my 1965 230sl since 1982.Immediately after purchasing it, all the wings came off and both the inner and outer wings were replaced with genuine Mercedes Benz items.It was given a bare metal respray and in the intervening years I have had the engine rebuilt and replaced rubbers and the soft top.I also had a leather interior fitted, and the hardtop completely refurbished.I currently have the radiator out and have just had it reconditioned.I love the car and do not envisage ever selling it.
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New member
Not bought a SL yet, not even looking for one yet, but sometime before 2008 I will have one. 40th Birthday, I would like a 68 280 so that we would both be the same age. I am currently using this site to build up a knowledge of what to look for and what to avoid.
Liam- no chance of a rush buy from this department.
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Greetings! I have only been browsing your website for a week or so and just purchased a '71 280 sl. It is black with a maroon interior, alloy wheels, 2 tops, was on a short auction (3 days) and didn't meet reserve. I flew down to Palm Springs to check it out and wound up buying it! I am sure I will be visiting this site regularly, and hope to meet some local owners soon! I am in Santa Cruz, Ca.
Jim Kohman
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Welcome Jim from another Jim. Good luck on the new acquisition. There are more than a few Pagoda owners in the Northern Ca. region and if we ever get our act together (myself included) -- we should be able to have another nice gathering before too long.
James
63 230SL
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Another newbie here.
I also have been haunting this forum for a week or two. I'm considering a 64 230SL. I am really having trouble accepting some rust issues with this one. A so-so restore was done about 16 years ago. The front passenger floor pan has one rusted through point which should easily be overlooked at this price point of probably $7500 as I know the owner. Hard and soft tops.
Lots of undercoating on the the tops and bottoms of the floor pans makes it very difficult to determine the extent of the rust. I have researched replacement floor panels etc. I do not weld and have no idea of labor cost for pan replacements. Gearbox is sloppy, engine has a very faint knock...piston slap ?
I just cannot decide yet. Someone give me a big push ! Based on the prices SL rust buckets fetch on EBay etc. it seems like a worthy investment. Some links to pics here: Comments ? Please and thank you
Carl
Seattle WA
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl1.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl2.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl3.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl4.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl5.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl6.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl7.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl8.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl9.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl10.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl11.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl12.jpg
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y244/alotawatts/sl13.jpg
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i took a look at the pictures
rust is an expensive problem, add mechanical issues.
for $7,500 plus rust and engine repair
it will be cheaper to spend $20,000 on
a rust free, properly maintained car
believe me, i've been there
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Pix numbered SL3 and SL10 are alarming to me. I'm guessing there's also inner fender rust on that car. Take a look at that photo of the driver-side fender. Looks like there's rust in that lip that runs along with the perimeter of the engine bay. If that's the case, then you can pretty much assume that's the tip of the iceberg.
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hello all
i have learned a great deal from all of you during the last year.
i am the proud owner of two wonderful 1971 280sl's, one black & one silver. the black one i bought over ten years ago from charles bronson in california. it was rust free, fast and had a damaged interior. i spent a lot of money maintaining the car as i drove between several states. when i moved out of nyc, i bought a silver, beautifully maintained, rust free car. attached is a picture of my silver.
fda71mb
1971 280sl black
1971 280sl silver
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Hello,
I am writing as a new member, having just purchased a 1968 250SL from Tigard, OR. It's an all orignal with 133K miles. I purchased it from the second owner, who's owned it for 30 years. All the records since new are included, along with manuals, warranty card, etc. I found it on www.oursl.com (dark green under "250SL"). I flew out to Portland on 12/30 to make sure it lived up to the owners description.
I have owned several vintage cars in the past but sold my last (1956 Lincoln Premiere Coupe) in 2003. I thought I was cured of this hobby but decided a "Pagoda" would make a nice Christmas present from me to me! 50's Lincoln parts are so rare -- Restoring a Pagoda seems like a dream because most parts are available. Finding competent people to work on vintage cars was always a challange to me. I now have Autobenz in Marietta, GA. The owner has a 230SL as well. He has seviced my 300SD and S320 LW for years.
This time around I don't want to go for a 97 point "show boat", but would rather aim for the low 90's and drive the car w/o worry. I got very caught up in the Lincoln club fussyness and it took the fun out of the hobby. People spent more time picking at very minor flaws than enjoying the car! Don't get me wrong...I admire 100 point cars and am very particular about authenticity! However, I find that every point above 95 cost around 10k to achieve!
The 250SL is completely rust free, as it has only been driven in nice weather and always garaged. That was my primary concern, along with authenticity. I spent a lot of time on this site and others to find out what to check for.The original paint is very nice. The chrome is completely pit free (it appears as if it's been redone and it hasn't). Portland's lack of sun and heat has kept all the rubber and interior parts looking new! Now for the bad news! The car has only had 2k miles put on it since 1980! The oil has been changed once a year and been driven on occasion. But the right rear caliper leaks, as does the brake reservoir. It is on the way to my home in Atlanta, GA (East Atlanta Village) in an enclosed trailer. I will spend the winter replacing or rebuilding the calipers, replace the hoses, etc. Everything works except for the clock and radio (Becker). I will replace all fluids and filters, tune up, etc. I really wish I could get an original firewall pad (maybe I will win to lotto!)
I am excited about this car and being an active reader on this website. I will have many questions!!! I am real active on photography websites, as I have a strong interest in vintage cameras. I work for Lockheed Martin in Marietta as a Procurement Agent. I have three dogs (two sister Whippets and a female Sheltie). No wife to nag me. That's about it...thanks for listening.
Regards,
J. P. Mose
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I WANT A PAGODA... I've been bitten by that pesky Pagoda bug, and won't be happy until I am one of you! I really want a 1967 230 SL... obviously, original, restored or in great shape, NO RUST, and of course under $20,000.
I LOVE THIS SITE - GOT ME HOOKED!
John :D
Santa Fe
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Hi, I ahve always been a keen fan of the SL Pagoda series and I am now seriously considering buying a car. My ideal purchse is a car which is mechanically sound whicc I intend to restore in over a 3 to 5 year project. I am planning to start viewing cars now, probaly viewing a 1965 230 sl this weekend.
I would however appreciate some tips in finding the right car. What should I look out for? What should questions should I ask? Where should I look for rust? What are the aspects that cost a lot to repair? What should I listen for when the car runs of should I take it for test drive? If paintwork is bad an need repainting, does it significantly affect the value at the end of a restoration project relative to cars in original paint?
Please let me know your thoughts; it will be much appreciated.
Thanks
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Use the search feature and limit to "car evaluate" and General Discussion, I only got one page of hits, but several of those messages had links to more specific items. There are a lot of good pointers on the site, so this should get you well started.
Good luck.
Jonny B
1967 250SL Auto
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Hi All,
Sorry for the double post (I posted this under General Discussion as well) still getting use to these discussion groups!
I have long been a Pagoda enthusiast but am a neophyte when it comes to any real Pagoda knowledge. I'm just beginning my quest for a car & would greatly appreciate any advice you may have in regards to purchasing on of these cars.
Thanks! :oops:
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Hello, my name is Khalil and I recently purchase a parking garage in Chicago and to my suprise it had a 1968-1970 280SL in very good condition and 99% rust free. It has been there for as long as people can remember (over 10 years with ut being started or driven). Its been covered and indoors, how can I get information on its history? How much would it take to restore the engine? If I sold as is what is its fair market value. Thanks, Khalil
Khalil Shalabi
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Again, as mentioned before the posting was deleted... you may want to identify who owns this car before you figure out it's "fair" market value in order to sell it.
quote:
Originally posted by KhalilShalabi
Hello, my name is Khalil and I recently purchase a parking garage in Chicago and to my suprise it had a 1968-1970 280SL in very good condition and 99% rust free. It has been there for as long as people can remember (over 10 years with ut being started or driven). Its been covered and indoors, how can I get information on its history? How much would it take to restore the engine? If I sold as is what is its fair market value. Thanks, Khalil
Khalil Shalabi
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Go to the police and not the lawyer is the only advice I would give.
Lien is not the right and civil thing to do.
The VIN will track and light up if's it's stolen, find out about it before you try to sell it - the buyer will track it to you.
This isn't about the car, a w113, it's about finding something that clearly is missing from someone. To many, nothing's more satisfying than doing the right thing.
Buyer (and owners) beware.
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Hello Kahlil,
The Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles will be able to help you. You will need to talk to someone about an abandoned vehicle application.
As a person in the business of renting storage space, you have the right to hold but not to own the car until you are compensated for what is due you. You must go through a process to identify the rightful owner of the car before you can take any ownership measures. The Department of Motor vehicles will supply you with the last registered owners name and address when you inform them that you have an abandoned vehicle and that you are in an auto related business. You are required by law to contact the owner by registered mail and resolve any storage charges if possible.
You have a right to hold the car until your compensation for providing storage or related services, are resolved. No formal lean is required by law to be filed. It is automatic as long as the automobile is in your possession.
The Bureau of Motor Vehicles will do a search on the Vin. number to find the rightful owner and make sure the car was not stolen. They will supply you with this information so you can attempt to notify the rightful owner.
It will be your responsibility to make every attempt to notify the owner. The Department of Motor Vehicles will not notify the owner for you it is your responsibility and you must keep proof of your attempts (registered mail etc).
If you do not follow the procedure you can be held responsible for the car if the original owner appears some day.
If the effort to notify the owner proves fruitless you will be able to file for a legal title on the car after a specified waiting period. Some states may require the business owner to make some kind of payment if the cost of the storage service is less than the blue book value of the car. Most often years of storage can amount to more than the value of an automobile in non-running and unknown mechanical condition. The "Abandoned Vehicle" application fee is usually only a few dollars.
The laws are designed to protect the owner and the business person providing a service. I suspect that the laws in different states vary a bit but should be somewhat similar. Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state for all the details. Have the cars Vin. number and any old license plate number ready before calling.
Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio
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All of this reminds me of this news story from a couple weeks back:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/10890430/from/RSS/
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quote:
Originally posted by ja17
Hello Kahlil,
The Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles will be able to help you. You will need to talk to someone about an abandoned vehicle application.
As a person in the business of renting storage space, you have the right to hold but not to own the car until you are compensated for what is due you. You must go through a process to identify the rightful owner of the car before you can take any ownership measures. The Department of Motor vehicles will supply you with the last registered owners name and address when you inform them that you have an abandoned vehicle and that you are in an auto related business. You are required by law to contact the owner by registered mail and resolve any storage charges if possible.
You have a right to hold the car until your compensation for providing storage or related services, are resolved. No formal lean is required by law to be filed. It is automatic as long as the automobile is in your possession.
The Bureau of Motor Vehicles will do a search on the Vin. number to find the rightful owner and make sure the car was not stolen. They will supply you with this information so you can attempt to notify the rightful owner.
It will be your responsibility to make every attempt to notify the owner. The Department of Motor Vehicles will not notify the owner for you it is your responsibility and you must keep proof of your attempts (registered mail etc).
If you do not follow the procedure you can be held responsible for the car if the original owner appears some day.
If the effort to notify the owner proves fruitless you will be able to file for a legal title on the car after a specified waiting period. Some states may require the business owner to make some kind of payment if the cost of the storage service is less than the blue book value of the car. Most often years of storage can amount to more than the value of an automobile in non-running and unknown mechanical condition. The "Abandoned Vehicle" application fee is usually only a few dollars.
The laws are designed to protect the owner and the business person providing a service. I suspect that the laws in different states vary a bit but should be somewhat similar. Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state for all the details. Have the cars Vin. number and any old license plate number ready before calling.
Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio
Khalil Shalabi
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Thanks Joe,
I have a company that's doing that for me. They will give the VIN to the police to make sure the car is not stolen, then find out who the owner is and make every effort to contact them or their estate to give them an oppurtunity to pay the fee, then if they don't respond they will get me the title to it. I have also spoken to a restorer here in Illinois who has experience in restoring it for me when it seems that I will be getting it.
Khalil Shalabi
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I think I’m the newest of the new guys on the site. Just joined a couple of hours ago to get some advice on injectors and already have great info to act on! I have a ’64 230 SL and am in an extended renovation. My dad bought the car when I was 5 and we started the rebuild when I was 16 (had to, seeing that I backed in to the hard top and left two huge gouges from the tail pipes!) I inherited the car about 10 years ago and have had the body and paint totally redone as well as dropped in a new long block. Finally in the home stretch with new carpet going inside and finishing up the some fuel related issues. It’s definitely been a love hate relationship, but only hate when it comes time to pay off the credit card. I figure another ten year of work on it and it’s going to be my retirement car!
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Hi all. I just received today my 1963 230 SL. I have wanted an old car for as long as I can remember and found this one. I am really at a loss between joy and fear...I found this site and started reading and I think you all will be able to help me. Here's what I know so far- the car is white with blue interior. It is all original inside (radio works, clock, etc.) I haven't gotton to take the top off yet to see what shape the soft top is in or what color it is. I do know that the car seems LOUD. It seemed to run ok when I drove it home from the transport company near Los Angeles except I had a terrible time releasing the emergency brake and of all days for it to rain in sunny California it poured--I also found out I sprung many leaks! I am going to take it to a MB repair shop tomorrow to have it checked out and I'll let you know what information I'll need from you. My car has funny looking round headlights on it...what's up with those. The only think I know about the car is that it possibly european and was #244 in production.
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My 1966 230SL Euro was originally owned by a German doctor in Ohio - apparently a grey-market car. It was sold to a man who repainted it around 1988 but then ran into financial trouble. He sold it to my father-in-law and at the time was considered one of the best (unrestored original) 113's in the midwest. Before he died, my father-in-law gave the car to my brother-in-law in 1995, and he drove it only about 25 miles per year. It became a headache for him to store and maintain, so he offered it to me when he recently retired. Of course, knowing the car and its fine condition, I jumped at the chance to buy it.
The SL is white with a black MB-tex interior, with a white hardtop, 4 speed manual, and its original black soft top (with minor rough spots). It has European headlights, 111k KM on the odo (appr. 65k original miles), no headrests or seatbelts. The car looks and sounds great for 40 years old. It has new tires, brakes and steering. The exhaust note with the top down, running through the gears is music to my ears and I can't get enough of it.
I only drive it when the sun is shining and the weather is warm, with the top down preferably. Despite nonworking clock, radio, windshield washer, right directional signal stop, sunvisor, weatherstripping, gascap) the car is in great shape, although I can see a couple of rust spots developing under the paint behind the left rear wheelwell.
I look forward to getting to know many of my fellow SL owners throughout this Group.
Z
66 230SL Euro 4spd
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Welcome Zach and Marti?. You will find lots of good info here. I find your descriptions interesting: Z has a pretty good grasp of his car's history, while DM's seems a little more mysterious. Both are pretty common around here.
DougMarti - I would bet yours has a blue soft-top under there, and I can tell you that at 244 you have one of the earliest specimens among us. As time goes by, you will start to undertand what that means. If its a european model, your speedometer is in Kilometers not miles. So if you look up and are doing 110, its probably a Euro. Good luck.
James
63 230SL
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Hello!
My name's Rhodri Richards (hence the username), and I live in London, UK (well, Kingston upon Thames to be precise, but I doubt many of you from around the world will have heard of that!)
I don't currently have a Pagoda. In fact the closest I've got to one is to test drive a 230SL last weekend, but I'm on the lookout for a 230SL in decent condition. I'm very much in newbie territory when it comes to Mercedes, but have been very active in VW circles for the last 10 years or so. Now is the time to upgrade from a 1964 'Razoredge' Karmann Ghia that I've had for the past 5 years to something a little bit more luxurious! I'll keep the 1964 VW Beetle that I've had for the last 10 years as my regular 5 seater car.
Thanks for making me feel welcome already :)
Rhodri
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My name is Ian Wheatley. I live in Derby, England. Having visited the US on a few occasions and explained to people where I am from, I am aware that most of you have never heard of Derby. So, roughly speaking, it's right in the centre of England and is about as far away from the coast as you can get in the UK (around 90 miles). We are around 35 miles from Birmingham and 15 miles from Nottingham. In the north of the county of Derbyshire, we have the Peak District National Park.
I have owned my 1967 250 SL for 3 years. It is white with white hardtop and red tex interior. It is an automatic and is pre-face lift, i.e. it has the early style door mirrors, door fittings and hub caps. It's very much a summer Sunday car and is used mainly for classic car events, including those held by the Mercedes Benz Club UK.
There are very few Pagodas in my area. At local car events, mine is usually the only one and attracts a great deal of attention. What I like about the Pagoda is the way it appears to be wide and sits low to the ground. I needed new sills on my car and was asked whether I wanted them painting black or in the body colour - white. At first I thought white, but then realised that they are done in black in order to preserve the illusion of the low squat bodywork. So I went for black, glad I did now.
I've joined this club because it is totally dedicated to the Pagoda. The Mercedes Benz Club UK is great but covers the entire range, so there isn't enough Pagoda talk.
Ian
1967 250SL
Derby,England
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quote:
Originally posted by Ian45
My name is Ian Wheatley. I live in Derby, England. Having visited the US on a few occasions and explained to people where I am from, I am aware that most of you have never heard of Derby. So, roughly speaking, it's right in the centre of England and is about as far away from the coast as you can get in the UK (around 90 miles). We are around 35 miles from Birmingham and 15 miles from Nottingham. In the north of the county of Derbyshire, we have the Peak District National Park.
I have owned my 1967 250 SL for 3 years. It is white with white hardtop and red tex interior. It is an automatic and is pre-face lift, i.e. it has the early style door mirrors, door fittings and hub caps. It's very much a summer Sunday car and is used mainly for classic car events, including those held by the Mercedes Benz Club UK.
There are very few Pagodas in my area. At local car events, mine is usually the only one and attracts a great deal of attention. What I like about the Pagoda is the way it appears to be wide and sits low to the ground. I needed new sills on my car and was asked whether I wanted them painting black or in the body colour - white. At first I thought white, but then realised that they are done in black in order to preserve the illusion of the low squat bodywork. So I went for black, glad I did now.
I've joined this club because it is totally dedicated to the Pagoda. The Mercedes Benz Club UK is great but covers the entire range, so there isn't enough Pagoda talk.
Ian
1967 250SL
Derby,England
Hello Ian,
Welcome to the most friendly and generous group of people of the internet car world.
You will find that we rarely if ever discuss anything other than Pagoda cars.
I too find my local MB club short on Pagoda discussions.
The search function of this site will provide you with many responses because most topics have been discussed by the group.
Post your question/s on any topic related to the car, that you do not find an answer for.
Please include your VIN, year, options this will help us respond specifically to your model.
Also there are some databases available on the welcome page that are worth looking through.
Again, welcome
Bob Smith (Brisbane,Australia)
RHD,1967 early 250 SL, auto
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Dear All,
My name is Charlie Grant and I live in Boston, (although I am originally from Australia, hence my log name). I joined this forum as a way of getting better plugged into the W113 community. I have lusted after W113's since I was a small boy but have never owned one. However, I believe that my time has come, and I have been looking for a W113 for about six months. In that time, I have looked seriously at buying a couple of pagoda's, but have not proceeded due to poor inspection results (both had poorly repaired frames). I am currently interested in a 1968 250SL that is for sale in Miami. Does anyone know a good SL mechanic in the Miami area that would do an inspection? Also, in case this one falls through, let me know if you hear of any solid W113's (probably prefer 250SL or 280SL) that come on the market. I appreciate any help. Best wishes.
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Hi Dundee...
Welcome to the group... You'll get a lot of help here in your search for just the right car. There are also several well respected shops in New England area who can help.. such as Gernold Nisius near Portland Maine...which you may already know about.
http://www.sltechw113.com/
Good luck..
Dick M
1970 280SL
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Dear Dick, Thanks for your suggestion about Gernold Nisius. I have heard of him but it is always good to get a reference. I think that I am close to buying a 1969 280 SL and will keep the forum posted.
Best wishes,
Charlie
quote:
Originally posted by Dick M
Hi Dundee...
Welcome to the group... You'll get a lot of help here in your search for just the right car. There are also several well respected shops in New England area who can help.. such as Gernold Nisius near Portland Maine...which you may already know about.
http://www.sltechw113.com/
Good luck..
Dick M
1970 280SL
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Charlie:
Another good source up there in your area is Alex Dearborn http://www.dearbornauto.com/
He usually has a few nice examples available.
Ed Cave
Atlanta, GA
1971 280SL
1973 911S
2004 A4 3.0
2006 GS430
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Hi to all! My name is Alex. Im from the philippines and i just recently purchased a 280SL at fairly good amount. I need help in restoring the car since I got it from a garage who dismantled it 5 years ago and no intentions of putting it back. Im pulling the car out but I need serious technical specs of bolt, nuts parts etc in order to bring it back to life. Please help since this is my 1st retoration project. Thank you and more success to the group.
Restoration discussion here:
http://index.php?topic=5419
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Dear All,
My name is nadav polinski and I live in bangkok, thailand for 15 years, ( I am originally from israel ). I've owned my silver 1964
230 SL for about 2 years. getting better plugged into the W113 community.
i have more classic Mercedes, 450 sel ( 116 )
and 240 d ( 115 )
I hope everyone is enjoying the web site, we're glad you chose to belong to the W113 Pagoda SL Group.
Kind regards
nadav, bangkok, thailand
http://www.thaiclassiccar.com/webboard/index.php?s=2d4d5dcaa7145ee51050602dc122ce66&showforum=2
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Hi everyone....I finally made the plunge and bought my first W113.
Unfortunately it arrived with many more problems than anticipated, but I'll deal with them. At the very least it is completely rust free! Two major concerns....the car was previously retrofitted w/a modern fuel pump...is this acceptable untill I resolve some of the other pressing mechanical issues, and (unbelievable) the under carriage was ripped on each side in transit by the tie downs. Any suggestions on repair...no picture at the moment as the car is at the shop. Thanks in advance
christopher
1970 280sl
1985 300td wagon
199 e320 4matic wagon
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Hello eveybody,
my name is Sergios and I live in Athens, Greece.
I dot not own a pagoda but I am looking for one in order to restore it.
Can anybody make any suggestions as to what car (230, 280), manual or auto, overdrive if any, i should be looking for?
Also, are there any musts that i should look into before buying such a car?
If dashboard parts and original wheel is mising, can they be found??
Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Many thanks,
Sergio
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Sergio,
Welcome! These are good questions. The "New member introduction" forum is mainly for introductions alone. Please start a new thread under "General Discussion" and we'll answer all your questions.
Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both tops
1994 E420
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Hello Everyone- My husband (Bill) and I (Kate) are the proud owners of a gorgeous Siren Red '65 230 SL. About a year ago I mentioned that we needed to spice up our lives a bit and maybe consider buying a red convertible. I told him we didn't need anything fancy, maybe something with a little rust. Well, last February he showed up with this beautiful 230 SL, and he pointed out the tiny rust spot on it, (we'll get that fixed). We have three kids and finally for the first time last night were able to take the car out together (usually it's just one of us and one of the kids). We look forward to meeting you and appreciate this great forum! Thanks for having us!! kate and bill
USA
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HI all
I just bought a 1965 220S, I've had these before, and I'll be asking a few questions of the 230SL owners about various part availability, like rear brake components, kingpin restoration and the like. There are some upgrades I'd like to make as well but I won't get into that yet. I have the official paper service book that I bought many years ago, Passenger cars from 1959. The car's original engine overheated and blew the headgasket and a 230S engine was installed. It has a bottom end knock so I'll be cleaning up the 220S engine, fixing the head gasket and doing an inspection. I'm taking automotive classes at Northern Virginia Community College and they want me to teach the introductory course. I just finished the Brake class and will take the Electrical class. Maybe I can get some engine time as well, honing etc. If you'd car to take a look at it, check it out here:
http://www.mercedesshop.com/shopforum/showthread.php?t=158770
Thanks
1965 220S, 1989 300SE, 2020 Ford Crown Vic Police Interceprot
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Hello All. This spring i bought my first SL. Late 71 280 SL 268 dark green w/ congnac leather - dark brown top. Traded a Porsche to Bob Hatch (Hatch & Sons). Last SL they restored. Interior and top redone by Gernold Nisius (SL Tech) beautifully. 62k miles. Car is currently in upstate NY, occasionally driven down to Manhattan (home) and will spend winters in Miami. Great car, terrific drive. I'm a little slow - just now learning what you have all known for much longer.
Steven
71 280SL
60 356B Roadster
73 911E/RS 2.9 Twin Plug
73 911T/3.6 Varioram
97 993 Turbo S
97 Defender 90
04 RangeRover
05 997 Carrera S
05 Mini Cooper S Werks Convertible
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I'm looking forward to sharing stories and specifics about the Pagodas. I have a 1969 280 4 speed which I bought as the third owner in 1999. I drive it every day in Dallas; rain, shine, wind, airport...what good is a car if you don't drive it?
As a kid, I saw these cars and never lost sight of them. My first car was a 1953 Chevy Belair which I reconditioned. I guess I got the bug.
I'm looking forward to hearing about events around Dallas, but I also expect to drive to northern New Mexico and various adjacent states routinely. Please keep me posted for what's up in your neighborhood. If I get crazy, I'd like to drive up to Maine in September/October to see the foliage...nothing like that with the top down!
I can share thoughts and ideas about most of the car's systems and what I've experienced. When I finish, I will have been from one end to the other, with and without mechanics. The only un-solicited recommendation I have is to find a Mercedez mechanic who worked on these in their youth...you will come out ahead in the long run but you will also enjoy knowlegeable solutions that can't be learned without years of campfire storytelling...and don't forget to keep good notes!
I also look forward to seeing pictures, pictures, pictures.
I wish you smooth shifting!
KBailey
69 280SL Cream
Black Interior
Dallas
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Hi I am a new member today. I have owned my 280SL since 1979 but I have not driven it only. I usually had 2 cars, and saved it for fun.I met an guy from the UK and ened up there so for about 8 years the car wasn't driven. BAD I had a fuel line burst so I didn't fix the car until I found a mechanic who would come to the house which I did now I have fixed the fuel line, tune-up, fuel filter, complete brakes job but the right rear line is not working well....it did for a week or so the mechanic said it was not bleeding properly. now it is leaking, burning, smoking & smelling....I need help any suggestions Thanks
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Hey ya'll
I bought my first 230sl (euro) in 1974 for $1,500 I bondo-ed up the holes in the fenders, painted it black and drove it to high school. It was a fun car to drive and would blow the doors off 289 mustangs.
I sold it about a year later and found a rust free 66 (usa) in a salvage yard in Texas.
My father and I opened up a Benz repair shop in Kansas City and I specialized in 113 repairs and restorations. At that time the entire front clip (fenders, grill pannel, headlight buckets and cowl all welded together) was still available from Benz for about $500. the rear clip was also about the same price. But that was 30+ years ago, I havn't worked on Benzes for over 20 years now. But I still have the Blue 66 230sl that I dragged home from Texas.
My son has pulled the cover off and has cleared the corner of the garage out so "we" can work on it and he can drive it.
I havn't driven this car since I got married 25 years ago and It has deteriorated and now is in very poor condition. I paritaly disassenbled it over the years, thinking someday I would do a ground up rebuild, but now there isn'n enough left to warrant that kind of rebuild.
I live near Athens Georgia and no longer have any connection with any one that I had worked on Benzes with.
Any help in finding parst suppliers in tha Atlanta area would be appreciated.
Thanx
Al Lieffring
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quote:
Originally posted by al_lieffring
I live near Athens Georgia and no longer have any connection with any one that I had worked on Benzes with.
Any help in finding parst suppliers in tha Atlanta area would be appreciated.
Thanx
Al Lieffring
Al:
Other than the MB dealers, Buds Benz, is the only real supplier of Pagoda parts here in Atlanta. http://www.budsbenz.com/ They tend to be pretty expensive compared to others, depending on the part. They also do restoration, etc. There are many others domestically and around the world. Use the SEARCH feature on this site to find links to many others.
Ed Cave
Atlanta, GA
1971 280SL
1973 911S
2004 A4 3.0
2006 GS430
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Where is the diving board for us newbies to get properly into a reply stream? Seems like we're spanked for being interested and our first thing is we're looking for assistance... Maybe we need an internal link.... :?
KBailey
69 280SL Cream
Black Interior
Dallas
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You just need to register (see right hand side of page) and you are good to go! That's why the note says "you must be registered in order to post a reply"!
quote:
Originally posted by kbailey
Where is the diving board for us newbies to get properly into a reply stream? Seems like we're spanked for being interested and our first thing is we're looking for assistance... Maybe we need an internal link.... :?
KBailey
69 280SL Cream
Black Interior
Dallas
Kevin Caputo
Boca Raton, FL
1967 230 SL Automatic
670 Light Ivory
113 Bronze/Brown MB Tex
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Hello all, my name is Steve and I just purchased a 1966 230sl 4 speed with 61,000 documented miles white with blue wheel covers, blue hard and soft tops and blue interior. The car is in wonderful condition not much to do but keep it in great shape and enjoy driving it. A data card was included and everything, options, colors, numbers all match the card. I know the cars' history from the first buyer to present, and have most receipts for services, many in German. The car was a Euoropean spec car sold to a woman in Germany new and was shipped to the US in 1977. At that time MB switched out the headlamp assemblies and replaced them with US spec lights, and the speedometer was switched to mph from kph, and these items were also included with the car. The car came with all original documentation, manuals etc, that I am still looking to translate. One interesting item that came with the car is a ski rack adaptor for use with the hardtop, it needs some replating, but is complete and could probably still be used today. I look forward to reading and getting information about these cars from the membership.
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WOW. What A find! Make sure to post photos when you can. Welcome aboard! ;)
quote:
Originally posted by skamieniecki
Hello all, my name is Steve and I just purchased a 1966 230sl 4 speed with 61,000 documented miles white with blue wheel covers, blue hard and soft tops and blue interior. The car is in wonderful condition not much to do but keep it in great shape and enjoy driving it. A data card was included and everything, options, colors, numbers all match the card. I know the cars' history from the first buyer to present, and have most receipts for services, many in German. The car was a Euoropean spec car sold to a woman in Germany new and was shipped to the US in 1977. At that time MB switched out the headlamp assemblies and replaced them with US spec lights, and the speedometer was switched to mph from kph, and these items were also included with the car. The car came with all original documentation, manuals etc, that I am still looking to translate. One interesting item that came with the car is a ski rack adaptor for use with the hardtop, it needs some replating, but is complete and could probably still be used today. I look forward to reading and getting information about these cars from the membership.
Kevin Caputo
Boca Raton, FL
1967 230 SL Automatic
670 Light Ivory
113 Bronze/Brown MB Tex
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quote:
Originally posted by skamieniecki
One interesting item that came with the car is a ski rack adaptor for use with the hardtop, it needs some replating, but is complete and could probably still be used today.
Steve,
Welcome! Sounds like a remarkable find. If I'm not mistaken, the cross bars of the ski rack are chromed, but the actual clips are not. Here's an example from the SL Tech website:
http://sltechw113.com/rare_280.htm
(Moderator: If this reply is inappropriate, please feel free to delete it.)
Douglas Kim
New York
USA
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quote:
Originally posted by KevinC
WOW. What A find! Make sure to post photos when you can. Welcome aboard! ;)
quote:
Originally posted by skamieniecki
Hello all, my name is Steve and I just purchased a 1966 230sl 4 speed with 61,000 documented miles white with blue wheel covers, blue hard and soft tops and blue interior. The car is in wonderful condition not much to do but keep it in great shape and enjoy driving it. A data card was included and everything, options, colors, numbers all match the card. I know the cars' history from the first buyer to present, and have most receipts for services, many in German. The car was a Euoropean spec car sold to a woman in Germany new and was shipped to the US in 1977. At that time MB switched out the headlamp assemblies and replaced them with US spec lights, and the speedometer was switched to mph from kph, and these items were also included with the car. The car came with all original documentation, manuals etc, that I am still looking to translate. One interesting item that came with the car is a ski rack adaptor for use with the hardtop, it needs some replating, but is complete and could probably still be used today. I look forward to reading and getting information about these cars from the membership.
Kevin Caputo
Boca Raton, FL
1967 230 SL Automatic
670 Light Ivory
113 Bronze/Brown MB Tex
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You are correct the bars are chrome plated and there are eight rubber blocks that attach to the bars to hold the skis.
quote:
Originally posted by Douglas
quote:
Originally posted by skamieniecki
One interesting item that came with the car is a ski rack adaptor for use with the hardtop, it needs some replating, but is complete and could probably still be used today.
Steve,
Welcome! Sounds like a remarkable find. If I'm not mistaken, the cross bars of the ski rack are chromed, but the actual clips are not. Here's an example from the SL Tech website:
http://sltechw113.com/rare_280.htm
(Moderator: If this reply is inappropriate, please feel free to delete it.)
Douglas Kim
New York
USA
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Hi
I just bought an 1970 280 SL withe with green interior. the car is an US version. sold in January 1970 by Bill Ussery motors in Florida, the car had one female ovner until 1989 when it was sold to Sweden and given a full body restoration. im now the tird owner of the car and looking forward to make it ewen better mechanicaly. 8)
Anders K
Sandefjord
Norway
280 sl 1970 us modell
Withe with green interior
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A lot of newbies around at the moment
which is great!!! welcome.
And get yer names down on the Frappt map (home page has a linky....) ;)
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Hello, after a few problems,let me introduce my car to all of you. It is a 280sl auto 11/69
Number: 1130 44 12 014260. Maybe someone knows something about its history. I Bought it in Sevilla, but comes from the US a few years ago.
Thanks
Luis
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280sl ´70, 190sl ´58, 600sl´05
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Luis,
Welcome to the group. I would suspect that due to the euro headlights and the "automatic" designation on the rear deck lid, it was not a US car to begin with. Try searching "data card" or "datacard" on this site to try to find out more about how your car began its life.
Congratulations!
Kevin
quote:
Originally posted by luisSLmadrid
Hello, after a few problems,let me introduce my car to all of you. It is a 280sl auto 11/69
Number: 1130 44 12 014260. Maybe someone knows something about its history. I Bought it in Sevilla, but comes from the US a few years ago.
Thanks
Luis
Download Attachment: (http://images/icon_paperclip.gif) IMG_16640k.jpg (http://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/luisslmadrid/2006910141234_IMG_16640k.jpg)
55.38 KB
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53.26 KB
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280sl ´70, 190sl ´58, 600sl´05
Kevin Caputo
Boca Raton, FL
1967 230 SL Automatic
670 Light Ivory
113 Bronze/Brown MB Tex
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Hi All,
About a month ago while heading to the beach with the family I drove past a 230sl. It peaked my interest enough that while heading home I took a detour to take a longer look. After doing an inspection from a independent MB mechanic(Paul @ Star Service) and having Alex @ Dearborn Automobile (http://www.dearbornauto.com/index.shtml) drive it, I sought the opinion of this group (http://index.php?topic=5773) . Well after lots of consideration I decided to pass on purchasing the vehicle - the toughest thing was telling the owner. A really nice guy that reminded me a lot of my father. Anyway, after feeling a bit down by not buying that vehicle, I came across that was listed on eBay - I know what all of you are thinking. Anyway, I lost the auction but the winning bidder failed to close the deal and the owner called me. We talked for 3-4 days and he started emailing pictures of the records - turns out all the owners of the car were meticulous record keepers - all the way back to new! I'm sure, I'll never know if a record was omitted, but this binder + the original service book provided a real glimpse into the past of the car.
Well I took a risk(1 way ticket) and flew down to meet the seller. Everything he described in his original ad was accurate and the car looked great and ran great. I'd say the biggest issue with the car was that the only thing this last owner did, except for wash it, was to change the oil. Thankfully he only had it for 2 years. The immediate concern was that he brakes were pretty well shot - I didn't realize this until I had consumated the deal. Well I nursed my new baby back home(500 miles over two days). The following weekend was the local MB club Concours - couldn't miss that opportunity to see my car with its bretheren, so I waited on the maintenance for an extra few days(I'll post pics of the event in a another post). As soon as the event was done though, I sent it straight to Paul(Star Service). They were thrilled that that I bought this one instead of the other. Paul was excited to work on a rust free, clean car that just needed regular(but expensive, as I would soon find out) maintenance.
I now have the vehicle back and wow!!! What a great car - the 113's have been on my list for years and I'm thrilled to finally own one. Except for few cosmetic items, the car is nearly perfect. Anyway, sorry for the long winded post, here are a few pics: http://web.mac.com/miniwarmth/iWeb/Cars/230sl%20Pics.html .
Best,
Nik
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Hi, I am a newbie from the north of UK asking for help. We are looking to buy a Pagoda SL; however I need a favour from someone near to Sheffield in the UK. I have had spinal surgery that has turned out none to well. I have lost no function in my legs but find some cars too painful to sit in as a passenger or to drive. Is there anyone local to us with a Pagoda who would allow me and my wife a chance to sit in the Pagoda before we begin to find one for our selves. Thanks Tony Marshall
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Ciao
Danilo, from Italy. Proud owner of a nice (very nice) 1963 Pagoda. Silver, in and in perfect condition.Bought off a gentle old lady, who had it in a garage for a long time. I have yet to do anything to it, although there is little to be done.So far I have a marvellous 5000km done, out of a total of 100 000km. Absolute pleasure, both at low and high speed.
If there are any Italian members. I would like to get in touch.
Saluti da Reggio Emilia, cerco amanti e o possesori di Pagoda.
Thank you/grazie
Danilo
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I am the lucky owner of a sexy 230sl 1963 model
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You may have better luck posting questions in "general discussion" as opposed to under "new members". Not everyone reads about the new folks coming aboard although we cetainly appreciate your being here!
quote:
Originally posted by madt
Hi, I am a newbie from the north of UK asking for help. We are looking to buy a Pagoda SL; however I need a favour from someone near to Sheffield in the UK. I have had spinal surgery that has turned out none to well. I have lost no function in my legs but find some cars too painful to sit in as a passenger or to drive. Is there anyone local to us with a Pagoda who would allow me and my wife a chance to sit in the Pagoda before we begin to find one for our selves. Thanks Tony Marshall
Kevin Caputo
Boca Raton, FL
1967 230 SL Automatic
670 Light Ivory
113 Bronze/Brown MB Tex
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WOW.
Keep the pics amd posts coming. Welcome aboard!
Kevin
quote:
Originally posted by duemetri
Ciao
Danilo, from Italy. Proud owner of a nice (very nice) 1963 Pagoda. Silver, in and in perfect condition.Bought off a gentle old lady, who had it in a garage for a long time. I have yet to do anything to it, although there is little to be done.So far I have a marvellous 5000km done, out of a total of 100 000km. Absolute pleasure, both at low and high speed.
If there are any Italian members. I would like to get in touch.
Saluti da Reggio Emilia, cerco amanti e o possesori di Pagoda.
Thank you/grazie
Danilo
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I am the lucky owner of a sexy 230sl 1963 model
Kevin Caputo
Boca Raton, FL
1967 230 SL Automatic
670 Light Ivory
113 Bronze/Brown MB Tex
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Hello Everyone, I inherited my fathers 1967 250 SL which he restored in Stuttgart Germany when we were stationed there in the late 70’s early 80’s (Patch AFB). At his death, I was too young to drive/maintain the car. It went to a barn in North Carolina and sat for 7 years, but it was not prepped for the “wait” (gas still in the tank, etc.). Fast forward to the present and now I have this wonderful car but it sure does need a fair amount of work to become a solid daily driver. I was able to get the basics done (brakes, master cyl., Fuel pump, tank cleaning, etc.) and she does run and is tagged. I still have a long way to go but it is great to have kept this car in the family. His love was for cars and I have great memories of my dad and me cruising in the “Red Rocket”. I will be asking for much advice as I have to replace many items that are worn. I have average mechanical abilities but I have found a decent mechanic in my area. It’s great to see the car that was in the garage growing up as a kid now residing in my small 1 car garage. I live on the East Coast (right on the Coast less than 1000 ft from the Ocean) so salt air and rust is going to be a big problem. Anyways, thanks again dad for the car ! We all miss you very much, your car is safe and will be top notch soon (I needed to write that, never got a chance to thank him).
Thx.
FloridaBill
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Welcome to the Group, Bill! I think you are doing your father proud to get the car up and running. Best of luck on things. You will find plenty of info here and lots of folks willing to help. The only potential hang-up I see is you may have to refer to your beauty as the "Red Rocket II" -- we already have another enviable Red Rocket, owned by our esteemed Pagoda expert, the Benz Dr!
James
63 230SL
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I am a mechanical engineer living in Arlington, Virginia. (See, not everyone living around Washington, DC is either a lawyer or a politician!)
I bought my 250SL Coupe in late 1985 from a Southern Maryland European used car dealer. It is a manual transmission "California" coupe (with a bench back seat and no folding top). At the time I bought it the engine was disassembled with parts in the trunk and the passenger compartment. I bought it because the body was straight, rust-free and still in original paint. The mechanical work did not bother me and I had it on the road by the summer of 1986.
History of car:
It was purchased new in Nurnberg by a U.S. soldier in April 1967. It was used as daily transportation in Germany before being shipped home to Virginia in September of 1968. On arriving at his new post in Virginia, the soldier's wife announced that she was pregnant and said that the Benz was too small for their impending family where upon it was sold to a friend. The friend ended up keeping it for the next 17 years using it in the Fredericksburg area of Northern Virgina. The car developed an engine problem that the owner chose not to resolve, so he sold it, making me the second U.S. owner. By the end of the 1990s It was looking pretty tired but had not developed any rust and had never been hit. I decided to paint it (for the first time since the factory paint was applied) which eventually lead to a full-blown, rotiserie, nut-and-bolt restoration, which I am just now completing.
While I was at it, I changed the color from 158 grey (190 dark grey top) with Caviar MBTex to 268 dark green (including the top) with Parchment. I kept it as a coupe.
Ray
(268)Green 250 Coupe
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Welcome aboard, Ray! Somehow I always thought that you were a member already! For those who are curious about Ray's car, I posted a coupe of shots of it last month in my post-event report of the Pagoda Meet at Tom Sargent's home.
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
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Greetings, everyone!
Please allow me to introduce myself, my name is A.J., and I'm a military policeman, recently returned from a tour in Iraq with the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), and currently residing in Clarksville, Tennessee.
About the car:
It's a 1967 250SL, European car, purchased by my father in 1973. It served as his daily driver for a couple of decades, and in that time suffered blown engine and was replaced with the engine from a 250SE. While a California car, it has it's fair share of rust from decades of daily exposure on the way to/from work and life in general. This was the car that I grew up lusting after, sneaking out into the garage at night to dream of driving it about as far back as I can remember. It's also the car that I actually learned to drive in. My dad would drive out to the roads out behind our house, find the steepest hill he could find and park the car and then switch places with me. His theory (and I agree with it) was that if I could start that car on a hill like that, then I could drive anything.
Anyway, long story (reasonably) short, when I returned from Iraq I heard that he was thinking of selling it, and when I asked him if he was selling it, he offered to let me have it, and even offered to rent a trailer and drive it out to TN from CA for me. I flew out to visit my family, and then did the cross-country trip with my dad, which I must say was one of the best trips I've ever taken.
Anyway, the car is now in my garage, and while it's far from one of those restored jewels that I see out there, hopefully, someday, eventually it will be. Granted, I'm working on a servicemember's salary, so it'll be a while, but it'll happen.
I'm looking forward to meeting y'all and sharing tips and techniques for keeping these great cars running and in peak shape.
- A.J.
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A.J.-
First, let me thank you on my own behalf for your service to our country. Secondly, let me offer my welcome to "the club"! One of the greatest things about this group is that we share the same fondness and passion for these great vintage cars. You will find that those with the "restored jewels" are happy to offer advise and input on 113's in all stages of life, whether as nice as their own or those in need of an "extreme make-over". The wonderful thing is you share the same interest as the rest of us and by just posting here, you are showing that its highly likely that another pagoda will soon be on the comeback trail.
Welcome Aboard and Keep the Posts Coming!
Kevin
Kevin Caputo
Boca Raton, FL
1967 230 SL Automatic
670 Light Ivory
113 Bronze/Brown MB Tex
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My name is Carl Luttrell and I live 30 miles nort west of Toronto, Ontario Canada. I have had Model T Fords for the past 30+ years and am now trying to learn all I can about my newest hobby car, a 1968 280-SL automatic in dark blue with white interior. This is a road worthy car I bought last August. I have already gotten much help from the club forum questions and answers as well as from the technical section. I am pleased to be able to join this club.
Regards, Carl
Carl Luttrell
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Hello,
here is another proud Pagoda owner who has joined the group.
I recently acquired a 280 SL of 1968 (great year by the way :oops: ). The car had been with one owner from 1968 til 2005 in the U.S. and I bought it from a MB enthusiast who had shipped it to Finland.
All the service records, receipts and original documents have been kept with the car which is in the so called "original condition" having been regularly serviced but not restored. Having read horror stories of Pagodas that look ok outside but are something else inside, I was glad to find out that only minor defects were identified in a thorough inspection on the car.
I have a friend who specializes in old Mercedes and Alfa-Romeos and he will take care of the maintenance as I cannot do much of anything with cars. He will also have the car garaged over the winter months since I will only intend to drive it in the summer (winters in Southern Finland where I live are roughly like northern U.S. states or southern Canada - not good for a 40-year old car).
My car is light blue (horizon blau, baby blue 304) with matching-colour hard top and dark blue soft top. Interior is blue MB Tex and it has got four-speed manual gearbox (strange for a U.S. spec. 1968 SL 280....).
Looking forward to the next summer and just watching the car in our courtyard - let alone driving it.
Best Regards,
Aapo
SL 280- 1968 Light blue (304)
Finland - Europe
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Hi Aapo..
Welcome to the group and congratulations on your Pagoda purchase.
As you've probably seen, this site is a great place to learn and share Pagoda information.
I think all new Pagoda owners spend a lot of garage time just looking at and admiring their cars.... I still do.
Happy driving ..
Dick M
1970 280SL
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Hello All,
I am a new member in Austin, Texas. I have a '69 280SL D11304410003966. There are a few items for me to work on (or get worked on) such as flush and fill radiator, power steering leak, A/C fix, broken tach & odometer.
But, the car passed inspection and i do drive it about. There are many MB service places around, and I would love to find a repair person in Central Texas. But, they all say they do not want to work on "older Mercedes". So, I may end up giving it a shot myself, with help from this group. Photos on the way.
Stuart
'69 280sl
P.O. Box 150128
Austin, TX 78715
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A very warm welcome to you Stuart. I found out that most of the work can be done by yourself if you are at least a little bit mechanically inclined and are willing to invest some time to find he information on 'how to'. Most of that information is right here, in combination with a good workshop manual such as Haynes and the original MB Service Manual (AKA 'The Big Blue Book', a term coined by David Pease some years back). To me, doing my own maintenance and repairs was meant to be part of the fun of owning this car. At first, I was intimidated by the complicated systems on this car (I used to work on Triumph Spitfires which are a piece of cake compared to the SL, mechanically) so I tried to have the work done by specialist garages. None of them were both good and affordable, so I went back to the drawing board. With help from this group I was able to sort out most trouble spots from when I acquired the car, and made myself largely independent from professional garages. I also enjoy working on the car, have developed an ear and feel for potential problems (very rarely do these occur), and probably save myself hundreds of dollars (a bit less in Euro) a year to boot.
Cees ("Case") Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic
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Hello,
Just found your site. Looking forward to talking to other owners. Mine is a '65 230SL (listed as CPE/RDS in the service manual - have all manuals and original paperwork). It's a manual four speed. Originally bought in Pebble Beach, Ca. My father bought it in 1972 and I bought it from him in 1987. It's been in Northern California all its life. It is steel blue with same color hard top and dark blue cloth top - tan interior - and a beautiful Nardi sterring wheel (optional equip). It's pretty close to perfect but I drive it most weekends. Had the entire exterior done five years ago and had all exterior chrome redone at the same time. She SHINES! Thing I love the best is people asking if this is the new Mercedes model.
Look forward to sharing with the rest of you who are in love with a really beautiful piece of machinery.
David
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Hey David. Glad you found us. The car sounds really nice. Posts some pics in the photo gallery some time -- love to see 'em. Also, there are quite a few owners here in Northern Calif -- keep an eye out for a gathering this Spring or Summer...
James
63 230SL
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Count me as another happy W113 owner in "Northern" California. If any other Central Coast drivers want to get together please drop me a line.
I picked up my dream car last month. A 1964 230sl roadster 4 speed. White with black interior. Ok, white was not my first choice, or my second but when a one-family early '64 in its original configuration comes along, you pounce! It came with the full tool kit, jack and alignment pin, manuals and documentation (except there was no original data card), the original registrations (from 1964 through 2006) all to the same couple, and it has the original California black/yellow plates. The front, which doesn't have the registration stickers, is stamped 63 - yep, those plates are now registered to me! It's #001515 and rolled off the line (according to the data card) on January 16, 1964. I like the idea of having a "first edition" W113: 5.5" wheels, round horn ring, vertical spare, pins instead of screws in the speaker grill, removable dash panel for the radio, etc. One drawback I've found is that I can no longer find the correct carpeting for the Kaviar interior. If that's my biggest worry, I'm doing ok. If you see a white 230sl with black CA plates cruising around the Monterey peninsula, that's probably me. Oh, and by the way, the vertical spare provides enough trunk space for my golf clubs!
It's great to be a part of the W113 world (if it doesn't have a hard top is it still considered a pagoda?)
Steve Iatrou
Seaside, CA
1964 230sl roadster
White (050)/Black (116)
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Hello to all,
I finally decided to join this great forum after reading all of the topics and seeing what a great place it was to get answers about my 280SL. I bought a 1969 280SL in 2004, it's a 4 speed with AC and has spent a lot of time in the past couple of years getting restored. I had it painted in it's original color - sand beige - and replaced the interior and the soft top. It's looking real good. I have it stored away now but it still needs some minor finishing touches.
I have quite a few pieces left over from the restoration work. Some of the parts are the old original parts taken off of the car and others are new parts that were double ordered or not needed. I'll be posting a list of these some time soon.
I live on Cape Cod and have had an opportunity to see at least ten other 230, 250 or 280SL's here on the Cape. Some are in various states of repair and others are completely restored. These cars never seem to show up in the local car shows but I have seen one or two in local parades.
Otto
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Hi
I am a Canadian cousin to the group--I just bought a 1964 230 sl-silver out of California that is 95% restored. No history on it as it passed through two dealers hands before reaching me through a Porsche (can we use that name??)Restorer in Oregon. Great fellow! The car was part of an estate sale. The last 5% wasn't done and interior parts are missing. I'll post a "hope for list" in the next forum. I got it through US and Canadian customs and now am working on the Provincial safety inspections and then registration. In the mid seventies as a teenager I owned and rebuilt a gas and then a diesel pontoon (60-61) only problem was that I had little money and was dependant on them for all transport. An Austrian friend's family introduced me to Mercedes and I have loved them since. Now a few decades later I can play with my new Mercedes while it is a "toy" rather than main transport. I found the Forum and was impressed by the knowledge base and friendliness of the members. I am certain to look for help on how to research the history and where to find parts.
Erik
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Hello: I have been lurking for some time reading many interesting and informative posts. I have a 1968 280SL. It's tobacco brown with a cognac MB Tex interior and a tan top. It's a four speed, no air, no power steering. I've owned the car for nearly two years and it has become a passion if not an obsession. Since buying the car I have changed the wheels to Bundt type alloys, added headrests, retractable belts, and period correct Hella driving lights. I look forward to participating in thess pages. Don K.
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Hello to all! It is especially agreeable to see some other Canadians as members of this select fraternity! To start with,I am "a young 66 yrs" enjoying my retirement,who would like to call himself "t-ford_man II", if I could figure out how to set it up!In any case,althought we drive our restored 1912 Model T Ford Touring over 2500 miles every year in club activities,3 years ago I purchased in Florida,a 1969 280SL Roadster, that I finished restoring just last spring. New Paint,leather interior,new soft top,chrome,mechanical needs,etc.(I say finished, but for my present project-a complete upgrading of the original Frigiking AC system.) "It is truly remarkable all the excellent data and information that is freely exchanged in these Pagoda SL Forums. What a blessing for the neophyte requiring help to tackle this sophisticated machine!Of special interest to some, may be my installation of a Borg-Warner overdrive unit that -as I desired- brings the engine rpm at 60 mph and 3350 rpm down to about 2350 rpm!What a joy on the highway!
When I have the time I'll write a report on this unorthodox, but successful installation.
Tom Forsythe
8766 Marcel Cadieux
Montreal, (Quebec)
Canada, H2M 2L1
t.forsythe_inc@videotron.ca
'69 280sl Dark Olive DB 291
Automatic + OD,PS,PB,Air,2 tops
W.T.Forsythe
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Hello,
I've been lurking for a few weeks. Not yet an SL owner, but I'm on the lookout for just the right one. I love the information here and hope to participate with something constructive once I own my own SL.
Current owner of a 2005 Thunderbird and previous owner of a 1957 Thunderbird (among other interesting cars).
Scott Newton
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Hi all,
I've been a member for over a year now but not been posting anything in the forums. I've always loved all SLs (especially the 560SLs as a child). I purchased an '86 560SL several years ago to get my feet wet. I'm not a mechanic and it's a great learning experience. I recently purchased a cherry '69 280SL 4-spd with John Olson's help. It's a 717 papyrus white body with a 135 blue mbtex interior and a 904 dark blue hardtop. All original color schemes (unfortunately not 100% original paint). 56K original miles with A/C (factory installed unit in USA) and power steering. The 2nd owner owned the vehicle since 1975. Though the car is in excellent shape, my future plans is to completely detail the engine bay, repair a small rear fender dent and obtain the correct radio (original was replaced). I will try to attend Blacklick 2007 and learn more about the W113 mechanics as well as meeting other enthusiasts.
Cheers,
Michael
--------
1969 280SL
1986 560SL
1989 Toyota FJ62
2003 Audi A4 1.8T Quattro
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Indeed, hope you are able to make it to Blacklick, an absolutely dandy event!
Jonny B
1967 250SL Auto
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Hi Everyone
I have only just started posting pictures on this site the last couple of weeks of my 1966 230sl. It's incredible some of the work some members have put into their Pagoda's and I take my hat off to them. I have owned the 230sl this last year as the third owner. With a warm climate here in Australia and a mere 42000 on the dial, time has been very kind to my Pagoda with only a couple of minor services required the last year The original owner bought the car around her 60th year and well into her 90's was sold on to a Past President of our local Mercedes Benz Club. The car was repainted and required maintenace carried out to make it most respectable. The interior, under the hood and boot space remain original although amazingly tidy for its years. I consider myself fortunate as previously considered a sl in need of considerable work.
I look forward to being apart of your forum. I enjoy seeing other peoples pagodas, colour schemes and pictures in interesting places.
All the best
rob
(http://www.sl113.org/forums/uploaded/RobMarks/200742852948_230SL%20Pacific%20Ocean.JPG2.JPG)
RobMarks
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Hi all - Have joined up to find out more about the Pagoda before buying. Although I still haven't quite decided whether to buy a Volvo P1800 or W113. :) Quite different cars, of course, but they're the 2 practical classics that I've lusted after for ages. I'm in Suffolk, UK.
Seems that (like the P1800) there are a lot of W113s for sale which look great at first, but that have deeper rot/wear problems - the sort of thing that I'd probably not spot through ignorance. So I'll be looking for inside info here and maybe to find a expert/specialist who can check out any likely suspects.
Um - that's all, really :)
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quote:
Originally posted by manalishi
Hi all - Have joined up to find out more about the Pagoda before buying.
Manalishi,
Hello and welcome to the Group. The most important things to do are:
1) Start your own discussion thread about your search (and click on the box saying "Subscribe to this topic").
2) Use the Search feature to find threads using search words like "buying", "shopping", "in the market", "how to find", or other appropriate terms. You could probably spend a whole day doing this and reading the results!
3) Make sure you attend the Pagoda event described here:
http://index.php?topic=7077
Talk to the other owners to find out all the nitty gritty details of buying & owning.
Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both tops
1994 E420
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Hello Fellow 113ers,
My name is Mathieu and I am a Benzaholic. My addiction began as a young lad and is still thriving 30 years later. It became obvious that this is a problem when I decided to leave the corporate world and follow in the footsteps of my father in dedicating my work and passion to the older Mercedes. Some folks choose drugs or another vice to focus their addictions; for me it is the MBs of yore. In addition to fine MBs I thoroughly enjoy close friends, cooking, and vintage audiophile hifi.
The w113 in my stable is a 1970 model, 4 speed, factory 2+2 (no soft top), silver on saddle tex. No A/C or P/S. Quite the driver's car. The car was purchased new by a close family friend and sold to my father (who has maintained it since new) in the mid-1970s. When my father passed last year the car was inherited by me. Since new it has covered just 56k miles and is still in very respectable condition.
My father was trained in Germany at the MB factory in the 1950s. He arrived to the US in 1961 and opened his own shop only a few years later. Beginning at a early age, I was allowed into the shop and began an apprenticeship with him. Starting with tool passing and cleaning, working up to resident parts washer, and from there taking on new responsibilities as seen fit by my father until earning the rank of his approval on any job to be tackled. I left for university promising I would not turn wrenches for a living only to find myself a number of years later wanting to do just that.
Today I run a repair shop north-east of Atlanta doing what I enjoy, bringing vintage MBs back to their proper state of mechanical glory. It is not my aim to be a large shop as management of employees is not my passion, rather it is the cars that keep me enthralled in my work.
Having lurked on the forum for a bit as time allows, it seems there are excellent resources here and a plethora of folks who enjoy their w113s. Seems I may have found a place filled with kindred spirits.
Happy w113ing and best regards,
Mathieu J. Cama
Lawrenceville, GA
1961 Unimog 404s
1965 190c
1967 250s Euro w/4 speed
1970 280se Euro
1971 280se factory 5 speed
1978 280slc 4 speed
1982 280te
1983 409d car transporter
1983 240d 3.0
1983 BMW R80RT
1985 500sel Euro
1986 2.3-16 Street fighter soon to be track fighter
not to mention various other flights of fancy
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Hi,
I am a new member that is looking to buy my first Pogoda. I am looking on the net and asking as many questions as I know to ask. Would some of you guys and gal that know what you are doing give me some help. I have looked for a few weeks and found this one on E Bay It is Item #160137727954 on EBay.It's a 71 with 33,000 miles with a cosmetic restore only. What do you think about the price do you know anything about the dealer in ST. Luis.
Thanks
Steve
HSS
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What a stable. post some pics in the photos section if you have a chance! Some some some interesting older cars.
quote:
Originally posted by mcama
Hello Fellow 113ers,
Happy w113ing and best regards,
Mathieu J. Cama
Lawrenceville, GA
1961 Unimog 404s
1965 190c
1967 250s Euro w/4 speed
1970 280se Euro
1971 280se factory 5 speed
1978 280slc 4 speed
1982 280te
1983 409d car transporter
1983 240d 3.0
1983 BMW R80RT
1985 500sel Euro
1986 2.3-16 Street fighter soon to be track fighter
not to mention various other flights of fancy
1967 230SL
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Hello everyone.
I am a new member. I have a 1969 280SL Euro I bought for my wife for our anniversary. I didn't do much research before I bought the car, I just liked the style. I have learned a lot about Mercedes as a company and the car itself in the past three years of ownership. It is in good condition and fun to drive. I have lots of question for the forum though.
Thanks,
Jeff
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Hey Jeff, welcome to the group! I commend you on buying the car for the style -- and not over-researching beforehand. (I just ducked!) Enjoy the new car!
James
63 230SL
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Hi. My name is Mike Price. I recently bought a 1971 MB 280sl after dreaming about getting one over the last 30 years. I fell in love with the Pagoda's in 1978 when I was stationed in the military in Ansbach, Deutschland. I had a chance to purchase one in '79 in Germany but had to pass it up because of all the cost at changes that would have been made to get the car into the states. I waited until now to get one. The one I have has this aftermarket sound system that is nice but I would like to restore the original system. I have lots of questions as to whether to get the becker europa with just the dash speaker or go ahead with the Mexico with speakers. Any suggestions would be appreciated. I hope to meet some of you some day. Mike
Michael J. Price
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quote:
Originally posted by cees klumper
In order to give new members an easy opportunity to introduce themselves (if they feel so inclined) here's a place to do so. Tell us whatever you consider interesting ! :)
Please don't use this forum for discussions, please stick to new member introductions. Discussions can be started here:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/forum.asp?FORUM_ID=2
65 230sl
54 Kaiser Darrin (rare)
61 scout
80 300 D
Honda/Toyota/F250D
77 Beechcraft Sundowner
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Hello,
I'm a new member. I have a 65 230 sl that was discovered in a barn with a tarp over it. The owner passed away and I went to help the family clean everything out and we discovered it. It was in very good shape.. a few minor dings. Unfortunately, I found the site because I'm in desperate need of a grille shell. I did something stupid and let the car roll into a pole which dinged the front. I'm very disappointed and don't like driving it with a ding. So, I'm springing to have the whole thing repainted... anybody have a grille shell.
Other interests for car buffs.... I have a 54 Kaiser Darrin of which there are only about 300 left in the world. My dad bought it new. Looks a little like the first corvette. fiberglass body, 2 seater. If you are interested, do a web search for 1954 Kaiser Darrin and you can see good pictures. I also do a substantial bit of flying our Beech.
Mainly, we work really hard in our vet clinic...
Great site... hope to talk to you all soon.
Mike
65 230sl
54 Kaiser Darrin (rare)
61 scout
80 300 D
Honda/Toyota/F250D
77 Beechcraft Sundowner
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Kaiser Darrin - the sports car with the two position convertible top and the doors that slide froward into the front fenders? Neet ride! I hope you are able to find a replacement grille shell. Make sure to obtain it first before doing the body work and repaint. The body man will need it for trial fitting to make sure everything lines up properly.
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
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My name is Craig Baulderstone. I live in rural South Australia (Keith), about 250km from Adelaide if you know where that is. (Although Adelaide is relatively small, it is often known to motoring enthusiasts from when the F1 GP was here.) At 44 I am presently a farmer on my wifes' family property but spent most of my working life as an ecologist. We are working out whether a farm life is us or move back to Adelaide. We have a 3yo and 10month old so I am not as active with restoration work as I once was!
I have a 1969 280sl with manual trans, red/red. I have a number of collector cars from the 20's on and a number of Mercedes. Each has its own special interest to me but the Pagoda No. 1 thing is style. I like the attention to detail and alloy panels (in particular the beautiful poured alloy castings for the doors) and the dual character of the motor from sedate and flexible in lower revs to that beautiful howl up towards redline when pushing it on a nice drive through the hills.
After returning from working in the UK in 2001 I was looking for a usable convertible but Pagoda's were a bit out of budget for a good one and I was looking more at 107's. But finding a good one of them was proving very difficult and having restored a number of cars before, my thinking had shifted to a cheaper Pagoda in need of rust and body repair of which I had seen advertised in the eastern states. Then my car came up locally but advertised at a price way above my budget. I was very honest with the seller and said I wouldn't be buying it but would he mind if I came and had a look to familiarize my self with the model.
Having looked at it he then pursued me with a number of calls asking me to make him an offer! I didn't want to offend him since I thought the condition didn't match his asking price but even what I thought it was worth was out of budget for me. Still, it had cast a bit of a spell over me (I assume you all know what I am talking about!) and the basics of the car were very good. Eventually I gave in - made him an offer - offended him - then got a follow up call some weeks later with a counter offer but we were going nowhere and he was starting to annoy me because he wouldn't accept there were any faults with the car.
My solution was to pay for an authorized dealer to do a vehicle prepurchase check with the view that I would learn from that as to what to look for and he would finally see some of the faults and the cost of fixing it. Result being he accepted my original offer. I think my only shock from the check was the price of the heater levers but they confirmed what I thought that this really was a completely rust free car which is almost impossible to find.
The car had an original 100k miles and so the interior is very nice. Shocks had little yellow dots so I guess they were the originals, replaced all the hydraulics for brakes, alternator, and the bush above the diff and of course those levers. The red paint was faded so I resprayed it and the only rust I found was in the screws holding the sills on, which I replaced with stainless ones so that will never be a problem again.
One of things I like the most is the history of this car. I have the original order and delivery papers and like so many european cars back then, they were ordered for Australia, picked up in Germany and then personally imported which meant a massive saving in tax. The purchaser in question was and Australian officer on secondment to the 'British Army on the Rhine' Within 6 months of delivery I have a handwritten receipt on the Army letterhead that sold the car to someone in Alice Springs who later moved to Adelaide. He owned the car right up until 18 months before I bought it. I looked the main owner up in the phone book and called but he had recently died. Apparently before he died the children were fighting over who would get it and his solution was to sell it. His son wasn't particularly friendly or chatty but I managed to get out of him that the car had very much been his pride and joy, always garaged and a 'weekend car' although it hadn't been used for many years. He didn't know the car had originally been ordered by someone else and couldn't help me with my suspicion that they may have been friends. I said that I would happily pay for any photos or for the opportunity to copy them and gave him all my details but I never heard from him again.
It would have been great to have a chat with the old man, hear old stories and reassure him that it had found a good home. The bloke I bought it from didn't seem to have much interest in it and judging by its condition and lack of maintenance wasn't really a 'car person'.
Anyway, that's my Pagoda story and I hope that is of some interest. Now for a tech problem in another post!!
'69 280sl
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quote:
Originally posted by Mike Hughes
Kaiser Darrin - the sports car with the two position convertible top and the doors that slide froward into the front fenders? Neet ride! I hope you are able to find a replacement grille shell. Make sure to obtain it first before doing the body work and repaint. The body man will need it for trial fitting to make sure everything lines up properly.
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
65 230sl
54 Kaiser Darrin (rare)
61 scout
80 300 D
Honda/Toyota/F250D
77 Beechcraft Sundowner
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Mike, Yes, this is the one. The doors slide forward into the fender but don't work well due to poor engineering and people that try to open them normally..... Thanks for the advice on the grill shell...they can still use the old one to get it as close as possible,,, then, when I get one, I'll put it on.....can't find anything for less than a grand.
Mike
quote:
Originally posted by Michael Grommet
quote:
Originally posted by Mike Hughes
Kaiser Darrin - the sports car with the two position convertible top and the doors that slide froward into the front fenders? Neet ride! I hope you are able to find a replacement grille shell. Make sure to obtain it first before doing the body work and repaint. The body man will need it for trial fitting to make sure everything lines up properly.
- Mike Hughes -ô¿ô-
1966 230SL Auto P/S
Havanna Brown (408)
Light Beige (181)
Cream M-B Tex (121)
65 230sl
54 Kaiser Darrin (rare)
61 scout
80 300 D
Honda/Toyota/F250D
77 Beechcraft Sundowner
65 230sl
54 Kaiser Darrin (rare)
61 scout
80 300 D
Honda/Toyota/F250D
77 Beechcraft Sundowner
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Hello Ive been restoring classic cars for years but now do it mainly for myself. I can help with new and second hand parts if any one is interested and live and work in central london. 1965 280sl 5 speed manual 1968 280sl 3.5v8 4 speed manual 1963 citroen ds chapperon convertible 1962 220se convertible 1969 280sl auto green 1968 280sl auto silver 1984 citroen cx 2500 gti turbo 1
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Any new info on the 'overdrive' installation and performance?
quote]Originally posted by WTF
Hello to all! It is especially agreeable to see some other Canadians as members of this select fraternity! To start with,I am "a young 66 yrs" enjoying my retirement,who would like to call himself "t-ford_man II", if I could figure out how to set it up!In any case,althought we drive our restored 1912 Model T Ford Touring over 2500 miles every year in club activities,3 years ago I purchased in Florida,a 1969 280SL Roadster, that I finished restoring just last spring. New Paint,leather interior,new soft top,chrome,mechanical needs,etc.(I say finished, but for my present project-a complete upgrading of the original Frigiking AC system.) "It is truly remarkable all the excellent data and information that is freely exchanged in these Pagoda SL Forums. What a blessing for the neophyte requiring help to tackle this sophisticated machine!Of special interest to some, may be my installation of a Borg-Warner overdrive unit that -as I desired- brings the engine rpm at 60 mph and 3350 rpm down to about 2350 rpm!What a joy on the highway!
When I have the time I'll write a report on this unorthodox, but successful installation.
Tom Forsythe
8766 Marcel Cadieux
Montreal, (Quebec)
Canada, H2M 2L1
t.forsythe_inc@videotron.ca
'69 280sl Dark Olive DB 291
Automatic + OD,PS,PB,Air,2 tops
W.T.Forsythe
[/quote]
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New to forum, not an owner.... yet. I have been researching a 2 seater of this vintage and settled on the W113, now I just need to find the right car at the right price...
Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch...
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hello everyone at Pagoda SL group, just signed up today .After a few years of trying to track down a nice 113 SL yesterday I finally purchased a lovely white 280 manual with rear fold down bench seat and removable hard + soft tops.COMPLETLEY OVER THE MOON. Colin @ Edinburgh
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I'm a new member to the forum -- joined yesterday! Am the proud owner of a 1970 280sl, silver with red leather, both tops. I've been lurking around the forum for a couple of months now and have appreciated the excellent information. I've located my data card and have been fascinated by the information contained therein. I'm in the process of sorting out the car; it's been in the family for 25 years or so -- my dad bought it in the early 80s. It was stolen, stripped, recovered and determined totalled by the insurance company in the late 80s. After harassing/cajolling/threatening them for weeks on end on behalf of my dad, they reluctantly agreed to restore the vehicle (can you believe that!). The vehicle sat, garaged, for several years as dad was no longer permitted to drive. I had alot of work done on the vehicle in So Cal in 2001 before bringing it north. The vehicle is pretty mechanically sound, but her body has a few scrapes and bruises. Any recommendations for body shops that have worked on w113s in the Bay Area would be welcomed.
Thanks for the creation of a great forum!
Gary
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quote:
Originally posted by colinwoodburn
hello everyone at Pagoda SL group, just signed up today .After a few years of trying to track down a nice 113 SL yesterday I finally purchased a lovely white 280 manual with rear fold down bench seat and removable hard + soft tops.COMPLETLEY OVER THE MOON. Colin @ Edinburgh
Colin,
Welcome! So you have a Coupe with a retrofitted soft top? I think a lot of forum members would love to see pix of that. Always lots of inquiries about that procedure.
Welcome & congrats on an interesting find.
Douglas Kim
New York
USA
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Hi Folks
i've just joined today and already posted an item! Must admit that I've been referring to this forum for a while now and have benn blown away by the level of expertise & excellent information. I have been undertaking a full-blown restoration on a 1966 230SL (auto RHD). What initially was to have been a colour change (from white to black) has endured into a six-year saga. Lots of rust damage in the main structures, floors, boot, etc. So decision was made to go all the way with restoring the car. Car has had all bad sections cut out. new sections welded in. Car has been hand-beaten, shaped, lead-wiped, etc. Black colour chosen is the mercedes black offered on the 600 series (Pullmann). New black MB Tex interior, carpets, kick panels, etc are now being fitted. I am trying to work my way through the wiring harness & connections.
Thanks for the opportunity to join and utilise the fantastic knowledge.
Rgds
Franjo
1966 230SL - black on black.
Gary
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Greeting to all from sunny South Australia S~!
I have been interested in the second generation SL Mercedes since I was a youngster and having been involved with car racing for many years have decided to sell my Lotus 7 & FJ Historic race car and get the car I have always wanted…a W113 of course!!
My car in an early 230 SL from 1964 (the 4544th car made) It’s an Automatic, Light blue with grey leather interior and I just love it. You can see some photo’s of it here:
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v640/pc777/My%20230SL/
I am looking to get it back to as original as possible and am slowly trying to locate a few bit’s and pieces, but that’s half the fun of owning an early car I feel.
Overall it’s in pretty good condition and with a little work over time I hope to have it looking even better.
Thanks to everyone, I look forward to enjoying this forum and my W113 in the future.
Kind Regards
Paul
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v640/pc777/My%20230SL/3quartRearDS.jpg)
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Hi Paul,
She's good looking & well looked after...(' :) ')
I always have a problem keeping the white walls clean !
Regards
Kemal
280 SL Manual 69
Originally posted by PC777
Greeting to all from sunny South Australia S~!
My car in an early 230 SL from 1964 (the 4544th car made) It’s an Automatic, Light blue with grey leather interior and I just love it.
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hi everyone,
put an offer in the other day, if they take it i will be an owner and an enthusiastic memmber of this forun. cross your fingers
x
howard
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Hello All
I have now found a car and take delivery (by trailer) tomorrow, Its been off the road for many years but is apparently fairly complete.
A 1966 230 SL white with red and white interior includes both tops original radio manual gearbox.
I am told the engine was running when last layed up but she is now lying under a tarp, brakes siezed and generally being eaten up by the dreaded rust. I really have not had the chance (or indeed the experience) to closely look at how bad she is but hopefully its not beyond redemption.
If so I'll have a lot of spare parts and keep looking...
Thanks for all the great info...
Mark
UK
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Hei!
I have just signed up, although I have been reading the information on the forum for a while.
Last week I became the owner of a 1970 280 SL. Color is Blue (same as Pauls on the picture below) with an non-original white interior with light blue seats. :evil: The original exterior was Silver gray (180),interior was red.
It is imported to Norway from Florida, and I hope to bring it steadily back towards original condition.
I expect I will have to ask a lot of questions as I go along, so be patient with this newbe :D
'andy280
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Just became a member as I am about to become a new owner. Within the next two weeks I will be taking title to a 1967 230SL. I will be it's 5th owner since new. It has been garage kept but not run in many years. I know the car but have not seen it in years (a relative is giving me the vehicle as an early inheritance). I have limited info as the data plate is not available to me at the moment. I will be needing much help if I am to restore this car to road condition. Will post pictures when I get them. Looking forward to being active in this group.
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Hi,
i am very glad . In the moment i am thinking about to buy a Pagoda i have foud this forum. I have a lot to learn and this is the place to .
regards
Fernando
.....................
G500(06),300GE(91),300D(83)Turbo
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I have been reading the discussions here on and off for years. Just recently I have found the time to do some major work on the car. I was given this '69 280sl 4-sp in 1980 by my father. He paid $8000 at the time. It was a essentially a daily driver for me up until 2003, with a paint job and replacement parts here and there. I let it sit in my garage (terrible thing to do) for almost 4 years, starting it up and running it to warm every few weeks. Unbelievably, I started driving it daily again over the past few months and there are no real bad problems. It still needs some work (always will), maintanence, and especially TLC.
This Forum is such a great wealth of information from so many talented people from many different backgrounds. I wonder how many other such in-depth Forums exist for other beloved cars?
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Hi everyone - just joined a couple weeks ago. I recently became the proud new owner of a 1965 230sl 4 speed manual. She's in the shop now getting checked over before getting pressed back into service. A euro version, purchased originally on a fly/drive and brought back here to the states. I am looking forward to learning much more here, and hopefully sharing my own experiences eventually. I found a set of NOS seatbelts, 2 point retractable, so will be getting those in soon, and have a few other items I am looking at improving/replacing.
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Hey Andy and 'andy, glad to see you both joined and are now using cars that sat lonely so long.
I guess you couldn't have more different conditions right now than FL and Norway. Welcome to you both.
Trice
1968 280SL US, signal red/bl leather, auto, kinder seat
Sarasota FL; Alsace France; Switzerland
Think of your Pagoda as a woman with a past...
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Well here is the car (Veronica...it seems to work much better if I name them) ...I really got it out of a barn...with about 15 boxes of parts.. I am sure i will be using this forum ALOT!
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Greetings all.
I have recently inherited the 1970 280SL California Coupe of my late father Jim, a former member of this group. I have been on a number of outings in it with him over the years, and have grown to like it...so I expect I will be keeping it. It is a euro-spec model I believe, as it was bought new in Germany and imported to Canada in the 1970's by a military acquaintance of my father.
I don't think it needs too much. It seems to run well and looks great. He was won a few awards at Mercedes club and other car events in recent years. I hope this group will provide a great resource for keeping it hapilly running !
Regards, Doug Hunter
Ottawa, Canada
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Hello everyone,
I have finally managed to talk my father into selling his 69 280 SL to me(he originally had a 230SL). My father purchased the car back in the late seventies with 38,000 original miles, now it has 42,000 most of those miles with me in the passenger seat. I always looked forward to the first nice day of spring when we would pull the cover off the car, install the battery and take it out for a spirited country cruise. I am the only sibling that shared his fascination and love of cars. I have been blessed with son who like his father and grandfather is also fascinated by cars. I look forward to continuing the tradition my father started so many years before.
Respectfully
Ed
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Hello all
I bought a 230 sl 1967 white over blue last September. I am from Montreal, Qc, Canada. I can't wait to read more about your experiences.
Best
BenzoMontreal
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230sl 1967
s280 AMG 1973
e320 wagon 4matic 2005
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Hello Everyone,
I am recently the new and proud owner of a 250 SL. Since a long time I have been looking for a nice Pagoda. I think the Pagoda is a beautiful car because of the timeless design. Also with the help of this website I found a lot of information about these cars.
When I saw this 250 SL, it was a kind of love at first sight and I decided to buy it. I already have enjoyed a few hundred miles with it. It is wonderful.
I am from The Netherlands and live in a little place just below Amsterdam. The weather in Holland is not always very good to drive a classic car. But still, I intend to drive it often.
Kind regards,
Martijn Sjerps
1967 250 SL - manual - dark blue 332
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Martijn...
"Welkom... die ziet er mooi uit!"
Benzomontreal...
for you the same message in English: "Welcome... that car looks great!"
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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Nice 230 there. Very pretty. I see you have the optional aluminum rims as well. I'm a recent member as well...not too far away in Ottawa.
Regards, Doug
quote:
I bought a 230 sl 1967 white over blue last September. I am from Montreal, Qc, Canada. I can't wait to read more about your experiences.
Best BenzoMontreal
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Hi everyone,
I'm excited to joing this forum with my '68 280SL in silver/red,
from Portland, OR!
Have a great weekend, everyone!
Konstantin
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Konstantin,
Great looking car in a beautiful setting. Gives me inspiration for my next restoration project, a 1968 Silver and red 280 SL.
Hans
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Hello everyone!!! Just a brief introduction... I'm Gene Gliponeo from Southern California & the 280SL has been my dream car since childhood. And, I am finally a proud owner of a red/black top '69 model. I hope to be of support & "to get support" as well. I'm going to need it as I continue to work on it!!!
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Hello All
I acquired a 280sl this year #896 she's registered as a 69 but I think the numbers make her a 68? I have owned a slew of older MB's and both my daughters pushed there first into our driveway and repaired them with dad's help. Having a 89 300ce as a driver now and just completing an atlantic crossing as engineer aboard a Dutch built 40 meter yacht with a pair of German MTU 12V396TE's that's almost 4 liters per cylinder. Married to a Dutch girl I guess I enjoy the northern european quality Being on this side of the pond for the summer I would like to meet some of YA'LL (I live in Savannah Ga.) and acquire some parts ie aft exaust manafold I'll be in Golfe Juan in a few days please feel free to contact me if just to say howdy
Tom Zelinsky
tezelinsky@yahoo.com
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Hello,
I've had my 1966 230 SL now for almost 20 years, and it's been a great car and lots of fun ! Too bad we don't have warm weather to drive it all year in Buffalo, N.Y. !!
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Just joined today. My wife and I have had a bunch of mercedes cars (not to mention Fords, Chevies, Triumphs, hot rod, etc) over the years. We have 5 daughters and each one took their first car ride in one or another of the Mercedes. We recently purchased a '68 280SL. It was a 'barn find' parked under cover for 11 years in Topanga Canyon, CA. We are absolutely thrilled, and are calling it our 30th wedding anniversary gift. It's red, 4-speed manual, hard top & convertible. The numbers show it as a 250SL, so we're not sure what it is. We plan to have it on the road soon..
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Hello Group.
I've been a vinatge VW nut for 28 years now, and more recently a hardcore VINTAGE VW nut (that means trading bolts like baseball cards with your fellow enthusiasts so you can get a full set of Kamax or Raschle M8s under your fenders with no "mismatches"...). I own a '57 VW that I spent 8 years restoring (chronicled at thebugshop.org), a '50 Sunroof that I spent about 30 seconds writing a check for, and a '51 Standard Sunroof that is years away from being completed but will be one day.
A few pics:
http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/237133.jpg
http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/467706.jpg
http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/16372.jpg
I started a web business 5 years ago part time and make some previously unobtainable parts for the very early VWs (zarwerks.com), mostly wiring harnesses and intake manifolds. I restore semaphores and heater boxes. Needless to say, I am a car guy, vintage nut, and mechanically adept. My shop was featured in Hemmings "Your Garage" article a few years ago:
http://zarwerks.com/zaradmin/hemmings%20cover%20july%202006%20shop%20article.jpg
Anyway, what leads me here? My wife was lamenting her new Camry ownership, tops in both practicality and boring, and I made the comment "Maybe we should get you a nice little convertible vintage car to drive on nice days". I started looking at mid 80s 450SLs because you could find real nice one owners for dirt cheap.... but they are ugly. Then I started looking at the older ones.
I had totally forgotten how much I loved the look of these cars, and am now bent on buying one. I have a few leads I am following. I am quite surprised at how many are for sale and appear quite affordable. $20k seems to get you a nice little original or restored runner.
I am not looking for a project (have several already, thanks...). I am looking for a nice even-patina or good resto 230. I favor the 230s over the 250/280s mostly for styling and simplicity. I want to buy something that will hold its value.
So let me float a difficult question: "What to look for when buying?". Now I am a moderator on a split window (-'53) Beetle forum, and I hate when people ask those overly broad questions. But I would like to ask this group what are the NOT OBVIOUS "run away" things to look for? I know what rust and rot, and bad body work look like and how to spot it. I know what hacks and "mods" look like (and REALLY value vintage preservation). But what are the not so obvious things to look for in the SLs? I fear the drivetrain mostly. I sense that most all parts are available, but not cheap.
Any comments?
Other good resources on the net? I have been doing a lot of reading, and intend to do more. I have a "What to look for when buying article" on my BugShop site that addresses the "you paid how much for THAT!?" issues that the newbie will easily miss. Any such thing for Pagodas?
Thanks in advance for any help, I'm sure you will be hearing from me in the future. I look forward to the day my wife an follow me in my '50 Deluxe Sunroof VW (she lasted about 9 miles in that car with the non synchro tranny) to a cruise night in a nice 230SL....
JH
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Welcome. There are other vintage VW enthusiasts here as well, one in Australia I recall with a very nice 230SL. I'd like to think there's a certain sensibility we all share... perhaps based on our age to some degree. :-)
Here's a website I always refer people to when they're looking for a Pagoda SL:
http://silverstarrestorations.com/113SL.htm
The prices are way off, but the information is spot on.
Good luck, enjoy the "hunt" & keep up posted on your progress.
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I just joined the Group and am in the process of taking ownership of a 1966 230SL from my uncle who has owned the car since the early 70's. I'm excited to have the group as a resouce and am enjoying reseaching the history of this amazing vehicle.
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Welcome Doug,
You should find plenty of good reading here. Keep us up to date with your new aquisition!
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New member as of today. Have known the car forever, but finally ended up with the means to purchase. 1966 230SL manual trans - light ivory with Havana hard top and a goldenrod soft top. Original, no paint work, no interior work, no needed engine work at 69K miles. Near showroom new with just reproduction Cooker tires as the only modification.
It is truly a pleasure to drive and so much more enjoyable than my past 1961 190SL that this replaces.
I am smitten with this gem.
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Sounds like a lovely car. What interior?
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MB,
Does in deed sound like a great car. I had both a '59 190SL and my '69 280 SL. Was getting too many cars so I choose the 280 SL as the preferred vehicle for the sunny days and sold the 190. I agree the Pagoda is so much nicer to drive than the 190SL and I have no regrets.
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The interior is a natural brown. I do have the color codes right from the factory papers (all documents included as well as the original title and dealership bill of sale etc.), I will provide all of that tomorrow so that with your help we can decipher it all.
I will try to instert this image from about a year ago to:
(http://forums.rennlist.com/upload/grandprairieshow_013.jpg)
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Okay, looking at the data card I see Jan 1966 build. Color 181 light beige, hardtop 408 Havana, seats 1131 brown MB-tex (#17 - 1), soft top looks to be 745 beige. The soft top is 100% original and it is a gorgeous light gold tone. Beige as a name is under-estimating its beauty.
Car came with heavy duty heater, paint coat preservative, garnish moldings on hardtop, white wall tires, 10 liters of fuel.
Its a stunner.
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Show us some more pictures! Where are you located? Looks like a super car. No power steering, stick?
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quote:
Originally posted by thelews
Show us some more pictures! Where are you located? Looks like a super car. No power steering, stick?
Thank you John, but after looking at your photo book I am humbled! That red car of yours is serious.
This 1966 of mine had been in Conn nearly all its life. It was purchased in Conn at Nelke Motors brand new, then the owner transferred to the Midwest within the last many years. No power steering, manual trans (four speed).
It is raining like Noah is returning but after that clears up I will post a new thread with additional good photos.
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quote:
Originally posted by MichaelB.
quote:
Originally posted by thelews
Show us some more pictures! Where are you located? Looks like a super car. No power steering, stick?
Thank you John, but after looking at your photo book I am humbled! That red car of yours is serious.
This 1966 of mine had been in Conn nearly all its life. It was purchased in Conn at Nelke Motors brand new, then the owner transferred to the Midwest within the last many years. No power steering, manual trans (four speed).
It is raining like Noah is returning but after that clears up I will post a new thread with additional good photos.
Thanks Michael. I look forward to your pics. No power steering and stick 230 SL is the purest of the 113s. Enjoy!
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my name is dustin and my mom has a 66 230sl automatic that she will not give me but im never giving up, i got plans
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[originally posted by new member "Joel". Moved here to keep introductions in the same thread]
Joel, living in Vancouver, Canada, in January bought a 65 MB 230SL from a dealer in Santa Barbara, California, some work to do, body and soft top, otherwise runs well and great to drive [/navy]
[followed by a welcome from "Scoot"]
[Moved by Richard M, Moderator]
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[Originally posted by new member "Don D. Evans". Msg moved here to keep introductions in the same thread.]
Hi everyone......
I just found this site, and want to introduce myself. I bought my '67 250 SL with factory ZF 5-speed tranny in about 1983. At that time I did not know much about these cars (still don't), but my wife and I wanted it. We live in Pleasanton, Ca, not far from San Francisco.
I don't know anything about the history of the car, but maybe with the help of the people on this site I can fill in the gaps on my knowledge.
Don Evans
Pleasanton, CA
_____________________
[Douglas Kim added this welcome:]
That's a very rare and special car. Congrats and welcome, Don. Now we need to see pix!
Douglas Kim
New York
USA
[Moved by Richard M, Moderator]
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[Originally posted by "bckiernan". Moved here with other New Member Introductions.]
Hello Pagoda SL Group,
I live in Illinois and have recently taken possession of a 1969 Signal Red/Black 4-speed. A lot of mechanical work was recently done and the interior is in very good condition. The car was painted a some time ago (+10 years) and now is in need of some care. I do not know much about the history as the previous owner only owned the car for 2 years.
I look forward to finding out more about the history of the car and hope the knowledge and experience of the membership will help as I get it back into shape.
Brian Kiernan
________________
"jsaylor" posted a welcome:
Brian,
Welcome! It's a great group. Don't hesitate to ask for help.
ALOHA,
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jim Saylor
Kauai, Hawaii
'65 230SL
[Moved by Richard M, Moderator]
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A few years ago I talked my Dad out of his '67 250sl. We picked it up in Naples almost 30 yrs ago. It's nice to keep it in the family (insert grin here). and hopefully I can pass it on one day too. It's pretty much still how we got it 30 yrs ago.
Only mod was done by the original owner and that was installing a propane tank and lines to have the option of running off propane. It worked fine but we've since taken it out.
Anyway, great site you've got here!
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Hello all,
I'm a new member in this forum and live in the south of the UK. I'm interested if there are some other UK Pagoda freaks in this forum to share some pain of restauration. I have a 230 SL, manual, original colour is light ivory, imported from the USA and I'm closed to finish all the body welding work.
Thanks in advance
Thomas
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Hi Thomas, and welcome
naj
If you remember nothing else about your time here, remember that name. He's been there before you and seemingly has a memory for part numbers!
I assume you are familiar with Mervyn at Mercedes Benz of Poole. If not now, you will be as he's the best classic parts fella in the UK MB network. Also gives a 10% discount to MB club members.... He's not on the links page (via the home page), but other parts suppliers are.
Have you a flickr or something that can be used so you can share your pain with us in photos?
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quote:
Originally posted by tfische2
I'm interested if there are some other UK Pagoda freaks in this forum to share some pain of restauration. I have a 230 SL, manual, original colour is light ivory, imported from the USA and I'm closed to finish all the body welding work.
Thanks in advance
Thomas
Yes, would be nice to have a get together for a chin wag!!
Anybody else interested?
naj
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Hi Thomas,
Welcome to the real world!: :mrgreen: ')
Kemal
280SL
Manual LHD69
quote:
Originally posted by tfische2
Hello all,
I'm a new member in this forum and live in the south of the UK. I'm interested if there are some other UK Pagoda freaks in this forum
Thomas
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Hello Tosh,
I have lots of photos. I bring the car next week to Birmingham and it will be cleaned and zinked. Front axle is finished and looks better than new, rear axle I'm working on at the moment.The engine is in Germany with an experienced Pagoda person and he is testing the motor. I'm looking for a good, and of course cheap, upholstery in my area. Did someboby has experience with a company in the south of the UK ?
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Hi Thomas,
I am in London, about 5 miles from Naj and about 2 miles from Kemal. Tosh is a little bit Eastside but I still talk to him.
If we did all want to get together, there's a MB Club midnight run (not sure it's actually at midnight) on 22 Nov meeting up at the Ace Cafe (a big classic car spot).
Anyone?
James
Etc.
James
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Hello All. I'm 42 with a wonderful wife and 2 awsome kids and work for the Govt and live in one of the most expensive communities on the earth (so it seems) so I have very little disposable income. After years of drooling over Pagodas, I obtained the car of my dreams last spring, An unrestored 69 280sl Euro version that I drove several times back in the early 90s. I obsessed over that car and offered to purchase it at every opportunity when I talked to the old owner even though I could never afford it).
I went looking for another euro model to restore to original that had a black leather interior and a 4 speed but all I found were automatics or american versions with the US headlights / bumpers and no spot lights. After 20 years the owner finally offered me the first right of refusal and I spent every dime I could scrape together or borrow to get the car I just had to have. I still haven't seen it since I bought it as I bought it sight un-seen and it is presently 750 miles away tucked in a shed suspended 6' in the air above general clutter - I do have full insurance on it though.
My sl hasn't been on the road since 1994 and it wasn't stored properly (drain fuel / additives / oil in cylinder etc.) so I expect that I will have my work cut out for me. Apparently the old owner was getting too many speeding tickets so he parked it and bought a Firefly to drive - he says the Sl is like a dream to drive over 100 mph though.
The car is a European model with a white exterior and hardtop, black leather interior, 4 speed tranny, spotlights on the front and a soft top that has never been up. It was originally sold in Denmark and brought to california and then imported into Canada in the mid 80's. It has a Mercedes replacement engine with 30k on it done sometime in the 80's. The interior is partially taken apart and he said one seat bracket is broke. Other than that it sounds like it was driven hard and then one day put away wet.
I have a MGB which was disassembled when I bought the SL so I had to build it up before I could move it out of my garage so I can start to build a new garage. I just got permits and expect to start digging for a foundation in the next couple weeks. I hope to have the SL (and MGB) in my garage together in the Spring of 09 and the SL on the road by next Fall.
If anyone in Vancouver would like to chat to a newby to Mercedes Sls, I'm available.
Ian
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Welcome! Pagoda and MGB - good combination!
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Hi all!
I'm the proud owner of a white '69 280SL since 1998, probably the highest-mileage Pagoda known with (2)41K miles currently showing on the odometer. I've been working on it bit by bit over the last 10 years and now it needs very little -- I drive it and enjoy it!
I ran another Pagoda site for 7 years, but recently shut it down and began helping with the process of merging its content with the SL group's archives.
Ian/Bonnyboy2 - I'm in Seattle. Hope to see you at the German auto show in North Vancouver soon. Summer 2010? :)
[dorian]
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welcome Dorian. Delighted that the archives will be shared, lots of useful stuff on your old site. The light bulb stuff, in particular, I found very very useful
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Welcome Dorian...the Pagoda113 website will always be part of the grand history of these elegant cars.
Richard M, NYC
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Welcome Dorian!
Here's my son (in the middle) with Dorian's son and daughter, now some 6 years ago, when we got together to discuss possibly merging the two sites - sometimes good things take a little time ...
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In order to give new members an easy opportunity to introduce themselves (if they feel so inclined) here's a place to do so. Tell us whatever you consider interesting ! :)
Please don't use this forum for discussions, please stick to new member introductions. Discussions can be started here:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/forum.asp?FORUM_ID=2
If you want to add yourself to our Pagoda Frapper map, you can do so on our Home Page:
http://www.sl113.org/home.asp
Hi, I am Witt past member of the discontinued Pagoda 113 site. Do I introduce myself on this site all over again ( I don't mind ....) or will that information be transfered ? How about all the other reports I submitted to Pagoda 113 ?
Please advise.
CHEERS !
WITT !
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Hi Witt,
Welcome to the site. I think it's fair to say that our esteemed webmaster, Peter Van Es, is still recovering from the very recent transfer of this site and all the forums to new software and needs some time to recover. Give us the lowdown on you and your car. I think Peter and others are going to work on bringing all the good technical info over to the site, but it may take a little time.
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;D ;D ;D
Hello Everyone,
I am new to both this site and to 113 cars. As a former muscle car madman, I really look forward to a more tame future with the '69 280SL I just purchased.
I have been fascinated by these 113 cars for some time now but had only dreamed of having one of my own. I recently purged several very quick cars from my stable and took full advantage of purging my wallet.
I am a 52 year old master electrician in Rochester (Snowchester) New York and own a small business consisting of 20 electricians. We are a full service merit shop specializing in commercial and industrial electrical contracting.
I am proudly married to my wife for 27 years and have (2) boys both in the electrical business and (1) grandchild I am spoiling as best I can.
I have just purchased my 280SL, 4 speed car, Silver Gray with Blue interior and as of this post have not laid my own eyes on it. It is scheduled to arrive at my home this Saturday. I am so excited I can hardly sleep in anticipation.
I look forward to researching and documenting my new car and many years of enjoyment.
Tony
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Tony,
Welcome and congrats. We've all had our share of sleepless nights in anticipation of a special Pagoda arriving in our lives, so your posting brings back some very pleasant memories that fellow enthusiasts completely understand. How about sharing one of the photos of the beauty that I'm positive are sitting on your hard drive? I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say we are curious.
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I continue to be surprised by the frequency at which people become new Pagoda owners. Is it just me thinking this? Is there something unusual about the "availability" of Pagodas compared to, say, other 40-50 year old cars?
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I continue to be surprised by the frequency at which people become new Pagoda owners. Is it just me thinking this? Is there something unusual about the "availability" of Pagodas compared to, say, other 40-50 year old cars?
Nope, they all just come here ;D
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Attached us a copy of the advertisement that I saw that made me chase after this car.
There are too many 40-50 year old cars out there today that your choices are endless. Only the limit of your imagination may keep you from finding something of interest in the condition you want.
I have rebuilt and hot-rodded several early chevy NOVA cars including complete rebuild of a 62 Convertible, only 45000 ever made. Also a 66 SS car that had every HOT performance part I could cram in a STOCK body. Low 12 second car. A few others not as note worthy. The availability of Direct Replacement Aftermarket Parts make some restorations or rebuilding fairly easy.
Having said that, that I think is the reason I now have a 113. A car that really only retains is value as STOCK car with OEM parts.
Looking forward to the challenge of I can do to a car like this before I have to depend on a MB Professional.
There are Web Sites like this one specializing in a SPECIFIC car for virtually every kind of car out there.
The internet is a wonderful thing. Just think of how you could have found people or parts with similar interests 40 years ago
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Welcome Tony,
Hmmmm, evolution in progress.....muscle car to pagoda ;D. I remember when I first bought my car in 1990...no one to share my happiness with and no one to ask questions in case I ran into troubble. Now...can't live without the internet.
Congrats,
abe
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Tony,
I too am a muscle car nut turned Mercedes nut. While I don't have a 113 and own a '68 111, these cars are so similar mechanically that I find this site invaluable. The expert advice and knowledge is really quite staggering.
I am still restoring my 1970 Plymouth Roadrunner and am refreshing my 111. I find differences in culture and philosophies between the two manufacturers most interesting. Also look at the availability of replacement parts. The factory still supports vintage Mercedes autos while the parts for American cars are almost all aftermarket.
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;D
Thanks for the warm Welcome.
Just received a call from the carrier company and he plans to be here tomorrow, early evening. I am already starting to shake. ;)
AS I look around at the MB sites for Help, Parts, etc. I have gained a new respect for for the long term commitment of MB for all of there car series.
As Wallace indicated, you definitely CAN NOT go to you nearest Chevrolet Dealer and ask him for a part for a 60's, 70's or 80's car except maybe a starter and a spark plug.
However a quick search on the net can bring you in touch with so many parts that are far superior to the OEM materials that came with your car it makes me sick.
And to think those American Automakers want us to bail out their ignorance and arrogance. :-[ :-[
Bring on the BENZ!!! ;D
Tony
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Hi Witt,
Welcome to the site. I think it's fair to say that our esteemed webmaster, Peter Van Es, is still recovering from the very recent transfer of this site and all the forums to new software and needs some time to recover. Give us the lowdown on you and your car. I think Peter and others are going to work on bringing all the good technical info over to the site, but it may take a little time.
Thank you for the wellcome, but I think I goofed......I typed a lengthy intro of my self and posted it under "What is your Profession"......well that's where it is if anyone is interested !
CHEERS !
WITT !
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Hi all,
My name is Jeff and I am new to the site. I have just purchased a 1965 230SL which needs some TLC. I also happen to work for Star Quality Parts of Maryland and SL Autohaus. I have been married for 18 years to my wonderful wife Mia, who also works here with me. We have three children, girl boy girl, 15,12,8. I plan on restoring this car to its original state and driving it. I want to keep it as a driver. I may not have as much time to spend here as I would like but I am glad there is a place to go for advice and discussion when I can. I would just like to say thanks in advance!!!
Jeff
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Hi all,
My name is Jeff and I am new to the site. I have just purchased a 1965 230SL which needs some TLC. I also happen to work for Star Quality Parts of Maryland and SL Autohaus. I have been married for 18 years to my wonderful wife Mia, who also works here with me. We have three children, girl boy girl, 15,12,8. I plan on restoring this car to its original state and driving it. I want to keep it as a driver. I may not have as much time to spend here as I would like but I am glad there is a place to go for advice and discussion when I can. I would just like to say thanks in advance!!!
Jeff
Hi Jeff. You know me from the 190 SL Group, SLover. I've spoken with you on the phone before. Good luck with the Pagoda, good group of guys here to help. Say hi to Max and Jason.
Be sure to check out the technical page and articles. Post some pics.
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Hi John,
Nice to see you here. Thanks for the welcome. I'm looking forward to getting started.
Jeff
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Hi all, my name is Steve Katzman from Houston and I just picked up my slightly used 230SL. Kind of a strange car, has a 67 title but is a 66 which somewhere down the line inherited a 280SL motor with an automatic transmission code. (My car is a 4 speed) Lots of things to work on but it does appear to run OK. (valves are a little noisey but other than that I can't see much else wrong with the engine yet) I plan on getting it to top notch condition over the next year by going through each system step by step. Just completed a 52 Chevy Pickup that I rebuilt from the ground up and over the years have rebuilt many. I've also owned a number of Mercedes, my favorit was a 280C that I owned for 16 years and ran up 250K miles before I donated it away. (Probably the best car I ever owned) Been looking for something new to work on since September when I finished the truck and decided over Christmas that a Pagoda would be really fun. I have an SUV and a truck, so it was time for a covertible and I always wanted a 230 but until recently a 2 seater just didn't make sense. I love forums and I'm truly amazed at how technology has allowed us to connect around the world and help each other almost instantly. I look forward to being part of this forum. Right now I'll need lots of help, hopefully in the future I will be able to give some back!
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Steve,
welcome, and we'd love to see some photographs of your project! Also, check out the Technical Manual and http://picasaweb.google.nl/mercedes280sl, a gallery of bpossel who's done an amazing all nuts and bolts restoration that will make your eyes water... authority has it that he's now started on adding some of that stuff to the Technical Manual. If you document your process I'm sure you will be contributor in no time too!
Peter
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Hi all, my name is Ben, and I have had a 66 230 sl for some years and a 280 sl for a year now. I also have a cherished 190 sl and a member of the 190 sl group forum. I live in Amherst, Mass. (90 miles west of Boston) and have always liked german cars since my dad bought his first mercedes car (190 C) when i was a kid. I am a member of quite a few german car forums and I must say the level of expertise and information on this forum is excellent. I look forward to meeting some of you folks in the near future.
Ben
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Hi All,
My name is Lee Hathaway from Scottsdale, AZ. Recently acquired a '69 280sl. The odometer is stuck at 107k..it has a recent paint job and looks great. So far the car runs great and I am having a lot of fun with it. Some things that are in my future are replacing sub-frame mounts, some rust repair in front of rear wheels and cosmetic stuff like carpet, seats etc. This forum has been fantastic to learn more about these cars and guide me through some of my projects.
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Hi Lee,
Nice looking car. The engine bay looks great - not too fussy but with the original type material on the firewall, which is rare and special I think.
You'll find lots of info on the site on the subframe mounts.
JH
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Hello to all
I joined the Forum yesterday and would like to introduce myself to all other forum members.
My name is Andy, I'm 43 years old married and father of 3 boys, and live in Austria on the border of Vienna. I run my one Company which is all about cutting and welding as well as automation.
Since I bought my Pagode 280SL 1968 about 1,5 years ago in the US.
While driving it the last summer, I now want to bring her back to her originally beauty and original colour (presently white) moosgreen.
I hope I can relay on the help of the fellow members for finishing this lovely work, and could share my experience on this job with everyone how is interested.
Thanks to Richard for his welcome mail,
best regards from Austria
Andy
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And welcome from me too! Please post some pictures of the car!
Peter
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Hello All,
I am Jason Jones and a new member to this group and happy to be here. I have a '69 280sl which I've owned since 1987. In fact, it was the first car I ever bought with my own money. It is papyrus white with dark blue MB TEX interior, a 4 speed transmission and was originally sold in Belgium.
For a while it was my everyday driver but I let it fall into disrepair. After several years of sitting in my garage (following a restoration project gone bad), it is now at a local restorer and starting to look really good. I have always loved that car and am looking forward to having it back in good shape and driving it again. I'll post some pictures soon.
I found this forum doing research for the restoration mentioned above and have already learned a ton from it. I look forward to much future guidance.
Jason
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Welcome! And post your experiences!
Peter
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Just wanted to say hi. I have my grandfather's '66 230sl which I have dreamed about since i was 4 years old. Just moved to North Carolina from San Diego and have had to use it as my daily driver. I love the car but know that I mus find something else so i can finally restore my baby. I am not too familiar with the car, it's only been mine for about 4 months. If anyone can share some insight or helpful tips I would be eternally greatly. I believe that its the European model, 4 speed and the odometer is showing 82K but i am not sure how many times it has turned over. To my knowledge there has never been any major work done to the car but I can see some pretty sever rusting ( it was in Rhode Island for about 30 years), and it doesnt like to go into gear above 2000 RPM. Other than that the engine just has a real mechanical sound, lots of ticks and such. As I said I am new to the car and could use some baseline info to judge the condition of my 230. I will of course be going through the site and soaking up all I can. Anyway thanks and I look forward to being a part of this site!
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Hi tbarrie,
you may want to have a look at Bob Possel's photographs of his car (see the link on this page: http://www.sl113.org/index.php/othersites.html)
Also, check our Technical Manual http://www.sl113.org/wiki/pmwiki.php
Peter
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Hi
Recently acquired my first 1966 230SL at a garage sale of all places. Second owner with about 100,000 miles on the odometer. Current owner repainted the vehicle back in 1977 to black, and subsequently redid the interior to a medium brown color. Just received the data card which indicated that the original exterior color was white grey (158) with a creme (121) interior. Original color was confirmed in the engine compartment, where parts we're not painted. Looking to bringing it back to original interior and exterior color scheme.
Cheers
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And welcome to you too, and please keep us up-to-date on your progress!
Peter
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Hi I am new to the site. I live in Chislehurst Kent, UK (South East London). I am going to view a 250SL pagoda on saturday, as I have always wanted to own one (not necessarily a 250SL, but this one looks immaculate! It is £45,000. first of all, it supposedly needs nothing doing to it. I test drove a 280SL last weekend, but was not sure of the drive. I feel like I need to drive a few more to make up my mind! I love the looks and the feel of the pagoda, but the 280SL (auto) I drove, was very clunky and seemed to take ages to change gear!
Few questions, is the 250SL the one to buy, as I spoke to Roger Edwards (Gavin) in Wimbledon, and he said definitely go for the 280SL, but other people say that there is not much difference in the two engines. Can someone with knowledge tell me what the good and bad points are for buying a 250SL?
Am I paying far too much money, if I do buy it? I know the 250SL was more rare than the 230SL and 280SL, but prices vary enormously. My husband and I have no knowledge of these cars, it would be our first classic! Any advice would be helpful, before spending large sums of money!
We would obviously get Roger Edwards to give it the once over if we liked it! I think they did a lot of the restoration work on it. Has got a fair bit of paperwork with it, and lots of bills for recent work.
Help please!
Thanks Katie
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Welcome Katie,
For the equivalent of nearly $65,000 there are plenty, and should be, nice 113's around. Don't buy the first one, look carefully, and learn a lot before you take the plunge.
You should be able to solicit some private help, even if it costs you a bit--money well spent.
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Hi Katie & Welcome!
I have a 4-speed 250SL, and really enjoy it - but as Michael said - take your time & look around. The debate between the 230SL, 250SL and 280SL is a religious debate with many great opions - search the forum on this - and you will find pages of pros & cons. This is a great network, and when you do buy...remember, you are not the owner, just a 'steward' of a classic!
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Hello Katie, & Welcome,
The asking price sounds very high end dealer!!
Have a look at this link for more choice of private cars as well:
http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/classic_cars.php?make=31&keyword=pagoda
Happy Hunting,
naj
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This topic provides hours of entertainment on the merits of the 230 versus the 250 versus the 280 SL:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=8495.0
My advice: just buy the best one you can afford, whatever the model! Note that this does not equate to: Buy the most expensive one you can afford. If there's someone who lives by that rule, contact me and you can buy mine if you have enough money ;) !
Peter
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Katie, there are decent arguments for each of the three models, so I wouldn't say it's a black & white issue.
Maybe another way of looking at this is asking yourself what kind of car you like driving.... do you want an a/c and autobox kind of experience or a more austere, driver's car? And that's just the most basic question. There are many more. You can configure these cars so many ways that even within the 3 models there are many variations.
Regardless of which model you purchase, you've clearly budgeted enough to find an excellent Pagoda. Please keep us posted.
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Hi,
My name is Mark. I just bought my first Mercedes !!! My Dad drove them way back when, and I drove his 280 SEL 4.5, but this is my first Mercedes. It is described in my signature. I am obsessed with cars and the Pagoda has been one of my dream cars as far back as I can remember. I found a very original, interesting car .... but it doesn't run, so I have my work cut out for me. I know, all of you are shaking your heads, but, it comes from a relatively trusted source and I've been around cars for a long time. I've had my '68 SS396 Convertible Camaro for 32 YEARS !!! It was my first car (bought in '77). I've had an '85 911 turbo for about 12 years. ... blah blah blah ... I'm only trying to explain how obsessed I am with cars. I have a wife and two young daughters, so it is nearly impossible for me to find time to work on them. This website is fantastic. I've read a bunch of it and I appreciate the time everyone has given to put it together. It is a real treasure !!! I'm afraid, based on my car, I'm going to be a big user of the site... The car is so beautiful, inside and out, it just doesn't run, YET. Anyway, thanks for reading this. I hope to drive to the Ohio event in July. At this point it is just a dream .... but, dreams CAN COME TRUE.
Mark
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Welcome, Mark. Thanks for sharing your story. Actually, a Pagoda in decent shape that doesn't run could be a very smart buy considering that's the easier part of the equation to fix. I'm sure I speak for the group when I say I'd love to see pix of the car. (And by the way, a gray soft top is considered rare.)
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I'm completely thrilled that the 741 soft top is considered rare. I didn't know that. I bought the car from the original owner. Original data card. Soft top allegedly had never been up before I checked it out. It look like it had never been up. I just can't wait to get it running. I was shooting for the very smart buy. Hopefully that will prove to be true. Since I can't drive it, I'm limited on pictures. So, I will try to attach one from when I was checking the car out (pre-purchase). Please note: There is 3 years of dirt on the car...
Mark
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That's a lovely car. Does it have a hardtop? How did you come by it and why is it not running?
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Thank you !! It was a friend of a friends car. Been sitting too long. That's why it won't start. At the very least, fuel pump is gummed up (I brought 12V right to the pump). It has a matching hardtop. I took it off that day to check out the soft top. All will be good once it runs. After the fuel pump there could be a 1000 issues .... or I just drive off into the sunset. Wish me luck.
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I hope that new member JMVSL will come and introduce himself here!
I just spoke with him on the phone; he's in Michigan, too. He's a relatively new member here, as well as with the MBCA.
JMVSL has a most interesting vehicle: a mostly all original 1965 230SL. From his father, the car lived most of its life in El Salvador and is Euro spec, with very low original mileage. I saw the photos and they are astounding.
Hopefully we can convince him to come on down to PUB this summer!
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I just picked up my 1970 280 SL. She is going to need a lot of work. The previous owner had strip she down to the chassis; which is what I had wanted to do.
I also own a 1971 280 SEL. For the past three years I have been restoring her to a reliable daily driver. Everything that I learned, I will apply to the SL. I plan on rebuilding or replacing everything. The only thing I think I will change is the color. I really do not like red. I was thinking blue, green, or gray. The interior is black. The previous owner did a poor job of storing the disassemble parts. This is my first job. Organize everything. I am very excited about the challenge of this project. I will post some pictures soon.
I look forward to the excellent information that I will be able to access from this forum.
twinoakchef
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Hi I'm Martyn,
A new member, although not a new car. We have had a 1968 280sl in the family for around 30 years.
It's actually my mums car, but she no longer drives, the car needs a bit of cosmetic attention and currently has a problem with a Hissing brake servo, but is fine.
I know the history from long back.
Plan is to get the car running sweetly and take my mum on a car rallly as her driver so she at least gets to enjoy her car!
I have a bit of a car habit already, so want to sort her car out.
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Hello Martyn,
Welcome to the group. You can find lots of information about your car in this forum.
Could you post a picture of your car?
Martijn
P.S.: Nice to see a member with a similar name ;)
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That's a lovely car. Does it have a hardtop? How did you come by it and why is it not running?
FYI: NOW IT RUNS !!!. I need to do a few more things before I drive it. I'm hoping for this week, but you know how that goes. Having the engine start, run, and idle smoothly eliminates about a thousand variables for me. I'll have to change my avatar after my first drive !!
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Picture of the car next to my Alfa Giulietta Sprint Coupe.
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Picture of the car next to my Alfa Giulietta Sprint Coupe.
(You must be a big fan of "Two for the Road.")
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I appear to be getting a bit of a car habit..!
Well money in cars is actually safer & arguably a better investment that putting it in a bank!
Certainly an Icelandic bank ::)
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Hi - Very informative site - New member from Tx Hill Country - I drive an 87 560sl w/ 70k mi and have been infected with the Pagoda bug - have driven & am looking at a 66 4 spd 230sl Euro for sale 10miles from my house and comparing hands on experience on that sl with the wealth of info on this site - hope to post pics of "a new pagoda" as soon as practicable...Thanks again for all the expertise and interesting insights. Tom G.
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Bonjour à tous
A new member from the Normandy in France. My pagoda is a 230sl from 1965, whith AT and PS ( rare options in Europoe at this time) France was the 2d market for the early W113, and consequently there are any pagodas to see on french roads
And we are proud about monsieur Paul Bracque!
A good reason for you to visit us (in addition our food and wines are acceptable...)
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Welcome to both of you! I only joined late last year and have found the site useful, informative and yes, entertaining. Pasfat, I can indeed attest to the beauty of Normandy and have had the pleasure of touring thru it in an old convertible ponton. There are few better things than a picnic in Normandy! Tom, a good friend of mine once had a 560sec. We were in London one evening and found there were seven of us and one car. No problem, we put my wife and her best friend in the boot (trunk) and off we went. First seven seater coupe on the market? ;D
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Good morning to all.
My name is Marco and I write from Italy.
I have a MB 230 SL built in february 1965. Having to do other restoration work for my 230, I found this site and this forum really special seriousness' and skill ! My compliments.
I will not mention too much in the presentation..so as not to bore you..and especially in respect of my "novitiate".
I hope to be an element of contribution to the forum in the future, at least as they are you already been to me.
A cordial greeting to all.
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Welcome, and we hope to see you here often! Feel free to ask questions and share your experiences !
Peter
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Never really formally introduced myself in this forum, but here goes,,,
I have been a Mercedes enthuisast for 20 years now. My first SL was a '73 450SL. Long story, not getting into it,,,
To date, I have owned mostly diesels 240D 300D 300SD but throw in a 190e and now my 250SL,,,
My Occupation is selling Quality Pre-Owned Mercedes parts, currently most sales on eBay. I ship World wide, and have shipped parts to every continent, 'cept Antartica, go figure.
Since I'm in the business, I really should part this baby out, but I've become attached to her after just two drives (and she needs a bit of restoration)
I've started a thread with photo's and video's to show my progress,,,
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Hi my name is Patrick, i live in bondi beach austarlia.
I discovered this site a while ago.... so, why shouldn't I join it.
I have a 1965 230 sl automatic in burgunday and beige interior...
this is a great forum, learned a lot from it...
thanks
pat
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Welcome Pat,
Beautifully polished & your soft top fits so well around the corners.
Kemal
280SL
Manual LHD69
Hi my name is Patrick, i live in bondi beach austarlia.
I discovered this site a while ago.... so, why shouldn't I join it.
I have a 1965 230 sl automatic in burgunday and beige interior...
this is a great forum, learned a lot from it...
thanks
pat
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Hi. My name is Kevin. I live in St Louis MO and we have a 1970 280SL. My wife owned the car when we got married about 5 years ago. I know very little about these cars so I want to learn from this group. I am an old British motorcycle guy so working on a German car is interesting. I have tons of questions so I am off to the other subject areas.
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I know very little about these cars so I want to learn from this group. I am an old British motorcycle guy so working on a German car is interesting. I have tons of questions so I am off to the other subject areas.
Hi Kevin.
It sounds like we have the same classic car AND motorcycle tastes. Good luck and enjoy your ride(s)!
Regards, Doug
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Hi, I'm Russ Hibbard, noob to the Pagoda group but active with early Porsche 911 and 356 Registry groups. We became the second owners of a '68 in 1992. Began a nut & bolt restoration of it for my wife in late '98... which has been somewhat >ahem< protracted. Will post some pix ASAP, it's quite striking in DB904 Blue with red leather. We also had a '68 280SE s/r coupe for about 10 years as well, regrettably sold back to Germany in '97. Oh, well... there's only so much space to keep even a small collection, and we've enjoyed every car we've owned in the past 25 years. My wife and I now use four of our German classics as daily drivers. Currently only one in the collection is a Mercedes.... I've promised to complete her 280SL this Summer.
I know... I shoulda never taken it apart in the first place! ::)
I hope to learn much from the W113 Bretheren, and offer what assistance I can. If there are any other members in the SoFla area, give me a shout.
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Hello Russ,
Welcome to the group.
I've only been around here for 3 or 4 months, but that is long enough to know this is a fantastic site and a great group of guys.
I've even met a few in person all ready.
By the way, as dHunter has said, we have the same classic car and classic car tastes (I changed the quote a little). I've got the Porsche / Pagoda thing happening too. I wish I could drive them year round as daily drivers though, like you do !!!
Enjoy,
Mark
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Many thanks, Mark... hope to make some new friends, and get more active in all the automotive things missed over the past decade because of business requirements. Which has been alot.
We have two early 911s, a 356, my daily driver '64 Microbus Deluxe, plus a 3.0CSL (track toy) that hasn't seen an apex in 8 years and a BMW 700 SC that needs restoration.
It's good to re-focus on the hobby that keeps me out of trouble. ;D
Cheers,
Russell
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Hi,
My name is Ken Harkema and recently became a Mercedes Benz 230SL owner. Well actually I bought two of them within a 3 week period. I live in San Diego but travel to Reno, Nevada frequently. While on a trip in April I found a white 1966 230SL on Craigslist and it seemed to be a reasonable price at $12,500. I meet with the owner and negotiated a price of $11,000.00. My wife and went back up on Southwest Airlines a week later to drive the car for several days with the intention of driving it back to San Diego if everything went OK. But the power steering pump went out the day before I was to drive it to San Diego. But during the second trip I found another 230SL on Craigslist in Carson City so I drove the 66 over to have a look at the 65. The owner wanted $16,500 but seeing what I had bought for $11K we made a deal for the same price of $11,000. Both cars are being transported to San Diego at this time.
My specialty is restoring Thunderbirds from 1955 through 1966. I have been doing that for 35 plus years. I own 9 Thunderbirds at the moment. I see some similarities with the Mercedes 230/250/280SLs and the 58 thought 66 Thunderbirds as they are also 'uni-body' and prone to rust. I am looking forward to working on both cars first to fix the power steering pump on the 66 and then to have my body guy repair the rust on both car.
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Hello Ken,
welcome to the group and congratulations for starting out with two Pagodas!
There is quite a bit of information on this site concerning steering pump repair, for example:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=7998.0
Good luck and let us know how it works out.
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Hi,
I had stated that once my car was drivable, I would change my Avatar. I now have the confidence to change my Avatar from the picture of my car on a flatbed truck.
Thank you for your help !!!
I still have plenty to do on the car, but at least now I can drive it to the auto parts store.
Mark
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Hi Pagoda Group
My name is Amedeo Gaggion, and I am from Costa Rica in Central America.
I have been a fan of MB since I was very young and had the pleasure of owning several cars from 190 sl to a W 129 500 sl. They are definitely my favorite cars and the weather in Costa Rica is great to enjoy convertibles. A group of friends have formed a local Mercedes Benz Club that hosts sveral events a year that includes car exhibitions, rallies , weekend trips and monthly meetings.
So far we have found that there at least 10 w113 in Costa Rica been mine that oldest, a 230 sl from 1966 numbered 1500 in original silver color with black interior.
Again I am very happpy to join the forum and would love to join the group in the next annual meeting
Sincerely
Amedeo Gaggion
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Welcome Amedeo...
Do you have a picture of your car you can post?
Invite the other Costa Rican W113 owners to join the forum too!
Peter
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I am Bossanov. I am located in Potomac, Maryland USA.
I recently inherited a '71 280SL from a relative who died while in the process of restoring it. The car is a blueish gray (not sure of the the name of the color), auto, 2 tops, AC. The car is in pieces, it was stripped down and re-painted, but never put back together. I have boxes and boxes of parts and nuts and bolts including a new soft top, new carpeting, re-finished seats, and a bunch of stuff. I am not sure of the condition of the engine.
I am not in a position to complete the restoration personnaly, so I am seeking a local resource to perform the work. I have always wanted one of these cars and I am committed to completing the restoration and driving this beauty. I will take some photos and post them as soon as I can get help in pushing it out of the garage.
If anyone knows of any DC area shops or persons you can recommend, please let me know.
Thanks,
B.
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Hi Bossanov -
Welcome to the forum! I was reflecting on your situation - inheriting a partially restored Pagoda, with many boxes of parts from a relative. Depending on the state of completion you may want to consider a different plan.
What I have discovered is that we need to be both passionate and dispassionate about our cars, and define the 'real mission'. You may have the mission to restore this car because it was your father's and you had great memories of the car growing up. Or, your mission might be just to get into a really cool 280SL because you always admired the car.
If your mission is to get into a 280SL and have fun driving it, one thing that you may want to consider is sell the car as is, and taking the $5-15K (no idea the value), and investing it in a restored and running car of your choice and color that might be selling for $25K now (market is down a bit). This path could get you in your dream car in 2-3 months.
If the mission is to restore the car, take the journey, smell the grease and leather, and create a memorial to your relative, this may be a longer path - 2-3 years, and $30K+. You would truly be a steward for the car, but it takes vision, commitment, and money.
Something to consider, and either way, we still want to see some photos!!
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Hello Group,
I just started posting to your forum again after a very long absence. if I can assist any of you in any way, don't hesitate to contact me. It's good to be back and I'll try to find the time to stick with it.
Tom Hanson
Mercedes-Benz Classic Center USA
MBUSA LLC
949 598-4842 direct
thomas.hanson@mbusa.com
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All,
My name is Stan Tripp and I live in Houston. I am married and have 4 children.
I am not really new, but more accurately, returning. I am on my third W113. I have owned and sold a 250SL and a 280SL. It has been about 4 years since I was last was on this site. The advise and support were invaluable and I look forward to becoming reaquanted with some of the oldtimers and meeting new folks.
I recently purchased a 280SL that has been in my family for some time. She is a 1968 survivor and she is beautiful.
I will post some photos when she arrives.
Regards,
Stan
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Hello,
My name is John and I have just upgraded to full member. I have a 1970 280 SL that I have owned since 1990. White with black hardtop, manual tranny. It has gone thru various stages of attention and inattention from me that have lined up with other time consuming events in my life, kids, new job, etc. About 4 years ago I got the car running again after about 8 years of sitting in the garage. The most expensive thing I have had done is to replace the 2nd gear cluster so that the transmission shifts properly. My car currently has serious paint issues (the paint is falling off). I plan to restore the car including paint, new carpet, new headliner, new soft top and mechanical fine tuning. I am interested in members' opinions about what is the correct order to proceed with the restoration. My current thinking is mechanical first, then interior, then finish, but I wonder if interior should be last. I am in Wimberley, Texas which is near Austin and not too far from San Antonio. Does anyone have mechanic or paint shop recommendation for my area? Also what should I expect to pay for a proper strip down to metal and repaint? John
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John,
welcome. Good question to ask. On this page: http://www.sl113.org/othersites.html you'll find a link to member bpossel's amazing complete restauration: everything stripped, everything done again. A great resource. On the same page you'll find other useful links to e.g. Motoring Investments, who also have lots of detail on full restorations. And don't forget our Technical Manual.
I'm sure some of our members will chime in on what's the best... however, it also depends on your needs. If you want to do a rolling restoration and drive the car, it may make sense to do the mechanicals first. If you need an engine rebuild, you might as well go the whole hog and have everything taken out... then do body, paint, interior... etc.
Before we start discussing this topic in extensive detail, it may be best to create a new topic message for it, rather than misuse this one!
Peter
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Thanks Peter, I will start a new topic. John
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Hi All,
I am quite new to the Pagoda family of enthusiasts. Nearing 50 years old, I have a history working as a "backyard car mechanic" having fully rebuilt quite a few cars. The 70's were my youth and I remember fondly working on Volkswagen bugs (69, 70, 71), Fiats (2-850 sport spiders), throw in 2 BMW 2002's not to mention all the Japanese cars... But other than the 2002's none really sparked the love for a car. Now as I continue to look at these Pagoda SL's I am starting to fall for them.
What keeps capturing my attention for older cars are the lovely curvatious lines coupled with open tops. The Pagoda series captures these lines and I fear that I am hooked! The curves, coupled wiht subtle chrome detail create energy just standing still. Knowing a Ferrari is out my reach, this lovely car looks like the winner to take my fancy for the several years. They are sold (when not rusted), safe and reliable with the brilliant look.
So I am taking the plunge and starting to read up on all I can BEFORE I buy a car. Thanks for the forum and I look forward to my reconstruction efforts knowing that at the end of the 2-5 year journey I will have brilliant car the provides the essence of this great time in automotive history.
Feel free to let me know of any of your “gatchas” before I make my purchase.
THANKS ALL!
Tony G
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Hello!
I have been lurking around for some time. Now that I have picked up a car, I think it is time to join in :)
Attached is a picture of my car.. plenty of work required :o
It's a '66 230SL, driven and wrecked in USA and then exported to Finland some years ago.
I haven't ever worked with a pagoda, nor with any car so extensively damaged, so I am hoping to learn a lot in months-years to come.... I have started to strip it apart to evaluate all the body work required (I already know it's both rotten and bent.. ). I probably won't have much time write here, I hope you understand why :D
I am also starting to gather up documents and material required for restoration. One thing that looks like a great deal is the BBB on CD-ROM available from MB Classic site. Unfortunately, they don't ship out of US ??? Could somebody help me source that!?
Cheers,
Niko
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hi
i'm Paul, from Sydney (originally British). Have always loved Pagodas and now am beginning to learn a bit about them before purchasing one. Love early 911s , have had an MGB for 12 years, and currently restoring a 1955 Land Rover.
Looking forward to a crash course about the cars from the forum - v excited !
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Hello Niko and Paul and welcome!
You will not be disappointed with a pagoda. It has timeless classic lines and is still very drivable compared to modern cars. It is tough and dependable when put right. You have reached the best place on the web for help so you are off on the right foot!
Niko, if you need someone to relay the disc to you from the Classic Center, just let me know. ja17@att.net
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Thanks Joe for your message.
I didn't receive any leads earlier, so I ordered the book from Germany a couple of days ago. Looks important enough to invest a few $$$ to have that on hand in the garage!
Cheers,
Niko
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Well some of you may have seen some of my earlier posts but I was waiting for a good day to take some pictures to post with this message.
I purchased my 1966 162H Blue Grey 230SL a few months ago through this web site and I want everyone to know how much I appreciate the information everyone so willingly shares.
The car I purchased spent about 40 years in California and after traveling across the country ended up just 10 minutes from the daughter of the CA owner. I have had several conversations with the owner (now 93 years old) and she let me know that she appreciated the care the car is receiving but I should know that it will always be "her car", and if I every drive out to CA, she would like for me to stop by and take her for a ride.
Thanks for reading this and I look forward to increasing my time logged into this site.
Norm
1966 230SL Blue-Grey
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Norm - the car is beautiful - you should be very proud to be the steward going forward. 8)
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I'm the owner of a Horizon Blue 1970 280SL with dark blue interior. I purchased it 20 years ago in 1989 from Showroom Auto Sales in San Jose CA-- it was a beautiful cosmetic restoration, but required a fair amount of mechanical work early on. For a number of years it was my main source of transportation, but after my kids were born, the need for more than 2 seats and 4-wheel drive in the New Mexico winters meant I drove it less and less. I'm back in California now, where you'd think I would drive it more, but it has been sitting in the garage for the last 6 years, basically undriven. Now that my oldest is approaching driving age, I've realized we need a third running car, and so I found a great mechanic in Palo Alto who has been bringing it back into good, safe driving shape. After four weeks in the shop, I got it back in mid-July and have been enjoying that wonderful top-down experience driving the back roads of Northern California.
I discovered the Pagoda Group a few months ago and have found it a great resource, particularly for helping with some of the maintenance and restoration issues that I'm able to handle myself-- for example, I never would have figured out how to remove and replace the interior rear-view mirror without the helpful information in the Technical Manual.
I'm looking forward to enjoying the car more again, and look forward to learning more and hearing from other SL owners through the Pagoda Group.
David Brown
1970 280SL
2004 E320W 4matic
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Welcome David, and post some larger pictures of your car in the Photo forum!
Peter
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Hi all,
My name is Christian and I have been a member now for a year and a half. I'm a Swedish national but my Pagoda currently resides in Cyprus. I've had the car now for a while and I'm on the forums almost daily, you guys are amazing with so much collected knowledge in one place. I've managed to solve so many small issues with this (in my view) very complex automobile.
The car was imported from the US in 2007 and I have no information of it's previous life. Bodywise it's in great shape with only two tiny rustholes in the floor. Mechanics are in decent condition with a few issues still outstanding.
The car came with a very good black hardtop and a disconnected airconditioning unit. An automatic gearbox, MB-tex upholstery and A nonworking original radio are other points of interest (maybe). I found the secondhand 15" rims at a local tire shop by chance, I'm not sure if I will be keeping them on the car as they are not original.
I've got a few questions coming but will post them under the correct categories. Till then, the obligatory picture.
///Christian
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Christian...
welcome... nice car... and it looks like you like driving it. Should you ever wish to sell the 15" rims, you can sell them to me. You'll find that they are quite popular. I have 14" Fuchs Alloys (original) and I'll swap them for yours!
Peter
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Peter,
Thanks for your message and thanks for the offer. I'll stick to the rims for a while but will let you know for sure if I change my mind.
I think I have to lower my car just a "touch" in order to make it look better, maybe that is the reason why I feel it doesn't look correct.
///Christian
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Hi Everyone,
I just joined as a full member. I purchased a 1968 280sl from a client of mine, who owned it since 1986. It is in great shape, although it has been repaired from an accident. The leather seats are recently re-done, there is virtually no rust, and the mechanicals are great. I have to remove the tank and have it cleaned out, hopefully to solve the stalling problem.
In any case, I really enjoy driving the car, and it receives a lot of attention.
Mike Veenhuizen
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Welcome, Mike. Nice car. For an instance I thought you were in the Netherlands... based on your name!
Peter
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Hello Peter,
My parents emigrated to Canada in 1952. Almost all of my relatives are in Holland.
Mike
Welcome, Mike. Nice car. For an instance I thought you were in the Netherlands... based on your name!
Peter
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I am a new member to this fine group of individuals. I am also a proud father who has watched his son (also a member) turn a 1967 230sl
from sitting in his grandmothers garage for sixteen years without ever being started to a fully operational almost near perfect car. He has quite a lot of patience and is
a stickler for detail. He researches almost everything about this car. For a seventeen year old man he probably knows more about this particular car then
some of the foreign car mechanics I have met so far. This membership would appreciate this man. I know I do.
He goes by xcashewx. Tried to post a picture of his car, but could not get it to upload. Any suggestions?
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Hello Joseph,
welcome to the group. Are you allowed to drive the car once in awhile? ;)
It sure looks nice and I enjoy being able to follow the progress from the beginning:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=10950.msg72940
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Yes I have driven the car. (when he was at school). It is a joy to drive in.
A totally different view of the road. Even if your a passenger you feel a sense of nostalgia.
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I just joined a few days ago. I am in the process of buying a 1967 250SL. It has been sitting in a friends garage for several years. They claim they have started it frequently but now it turns over but will not start. Once I get it in my possession I will be on line to seek help in restoration. This seems like a great forum and I am anxious to be involved in such a great group of people who share the love of the Pagoda
Kyle
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Hello Kyle and welcome!
Yes, you found the best place on the web for your new pagoda hobby. Keep us up to date!
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It has been about almost a month since I have joined this group. Three weeks ago my wife and I welcomed our first child into the world. That same week I also bought the 250 SL. You could say I got two babies in one week. At night when she is out of control and crying up a storm, we go out in the garage and just sit in the Pagoda. This for some reason it claims her.
I had a few MBs in the past and also currently own a 2007 E class. I am a card carrying Mercedes-Benz Club of America member and I visit their site often. However, I find the Pagoda site much more helpful. Attached I have included some pics of the car. Having owned a Porsche Boxster…nothing compares to the Pagoda roadster. Maybe it’s the fact that I am such a car nut…but owning this car is very surreal.
I am in the process of putting together my “rolling” restoration fix-it list. But first I will be adding a jump seat for the baby. I am looking forward to taking my wife and kid on ice cream runs next summer.
As the weather here in Texas cools down this fall, I will be dropping the top and taking the car out on the open road. Also I look forward to talking with you all and maybe meeting you at a future upcoming MB event.
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Well, i don't have much to tell but i would like to say hello.
My name is Rini and live in Terneuzen, the Netherlands.
I don't have a Pagode (sorry for that) but i own a W108 (a 280 SEL) from '68.
A lot of things from the W108 are similair to the Pagode so that was the reason to become a member.
I also have a second oldie and thats an Opel GT from '73. Both cars are comming from California by the way.
Well, i read some topics and this seems a nice, interesting forum, there are also a few dutchman i noticed.
Regards Rini.
(http://www.jawadde.nl/temp/W108.jpg)
(http://www.jawadde.nl/temp/gt.jpg)
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Welcome, Rini... nice cars (mooie auto's). That little Opel also looks good, and is well worth preserving. And yes, like some other W108 owners here I'm sure you'll find the technical knowledge on this forum outstanding!
Peter
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my name is Alex, im relatively new to this fourm. i have an absolute love for these cars, i remember when i was 3 years old and i would go into the garage pretending to drive the 230sl (not then my own of couse), and spending hours cleaning it with a bottle of water and a rag. Then one day it actually became my car to drive. this car is like my child i guess you could say haha. ive finally gotten all the mechanical aspects of the car perfect, now to move on to the cosmetic portion of it all. i certainly get a lot of stares while driving around town ;D
id like to thank the people of this fourm that helped me solve some of my issues, it is greatly appreciated.
i thought id post some pictures
(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h158/EGOmaniac77/230sl008.jpg)
(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h158/EGOmaniac77/mitvchell005.jpg)
(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h158/EGOmaniac77/mitvchell001.jpg)
(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h158/EGOmaniac77/230sl003.jpg)
(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h158/EGOmaniac77/mitvchell002.jpg)
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Hi, Y'all.
I am a new member on this site. 56 years old, with two great kids living in Groningen.
I am from Holland but I live in Vietnam. Already for 4 years and I will never
leave this beautiful area.
I allways wanted a sports MB from the old days, and I fell in love with the 280 SL
which I bought through EBay in Tennessee.
I went to the States to check it out and have holidays at the same time.
Price was right but the automatic felt like an earthquake. Paint on the car was good.
Surely I bought the Green MB 280 sl.
It was shipped to the Netherlands, and I picked it up myself from SCL Schiedam.
Now, 3 weeks ago, the MB is getting an overhaul," automatic" part, in the Netherlands.
It turned out that the automatic was overhauled in the States but not put back right
together. This is fixed now by specialists in the Netherlands and the costs for the overhaul
is way lower than expected. ''Love you guys there''. The seats were very soft, more, they felt
like sitting on the base off the seats. Miles on the MB 47.000 Conclusion,
1) previous owners, 2 only, very heavy.
2) mouse having a ball in the seats.
I noticed during the third day off test driving in the States, 1 mouse trying to escape the
drivers area. So I think there was a small family having a good time in the seats.
Attached the pictures.
Maybe I am on the wrong ''New Introduction membersite''. because it is a ''reaction'' Anyway.
Somebody might be able to put it at the right site.
Festeem on your site.
Regards, Ronald Aldewereld.
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Welcome Ronald.
And are you going to ship the car to Vietnam after you are done restoring it ?
Peter
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Hi Peter.
No, I will keep the MB in the Netherlands and after the complete check up
I will have it registered on my daughter name, as I am not a Dutch resident.
But, I will drive it once or twice a year, when I am visiting my daughters Europe.
Ciao.
Ronald Aldewereld.
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I just got my 1969 project 280SL which I will be restoring with the students at the Career center where I work. The car needs to be completely put back together but it seems like everything is there, minus the gas tank. I love this site, and apologize if my first couple of posts were in the wrong place. I am a member of a site very similar to this which deals with Land Rover D90s, which has been unbelievably helpful in restoring my truck.
The pagoda has always been my fathers favorite car, but I could never get him to pull the trigger on a restored car, but after seeing my LR restored he suggested we do a 280sl, and he would bank roll it. The CL search began, and I soon found a car that was a perfect match for my resto, already taken apart and mostly complete.
I have also always likes the w113 body style,(kids don't learn from strangers), but after siting in the driver seat of the shell of a car, I am hooked.\
Thanks in advance for answering my many questions, and don't worry, I will try a search first!
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HELLO TO ALL !
I have been posting for some months now, as I was restoring my early 250sl.
The car is now almost ready and the pics are for you to check it out.
Still some problems to resolve, but I could not be happier with the outcome.
I have included two before/after pics of the interior in order to see the progress.
I have owned more than 20 cars. None got even close to the feeling I receive from the pagoda.
So glad to be with you guys!
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Bloody gorgeous!
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Very, very nice indeed!
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Hello. Just recently bought a 1970 dk red, looks brown to me, 1970 sl. Original owner, and the car just turned 90k. Have owned a 69 280se coupe for a few years now. Both run well. Used site to do research on buying points forthe car, thanks. Not sure I should have done this, was swaying on whether I should keep the coupe. Woke up the next day thinking well I have my favorite two cars, then, oh what have I done!! Original owner won the car in a polictical party raffle during 1969. They came up short on the purchase price so he had to wait for them to make the difference up on other raffles/fund raisers. He finally got a 70. A very interesting man who unfortunately passed a few hours after I bought the car. Enjoy the site, lots of good information.
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WD
Welcome to the forum. Lets see some Pictures.
I often joke about being buried in my car. Given the PO's unfortunate demise just after selling his Pagoda, I suggest you do not consider selling it ;D I also suggest there would be some on this forum that could do the same as the PO if they sold their Pagoda's. :o :D :D
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hola,me presento aqui como propietario de un pagoda 280sl color azul y cambio automatico.
saludos desde Navarra
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Bonjour.
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Bienvenido! Encontraras aqui todo tipo de informacion sobre estos coches. Ademas, es un grupo de gente muy interesante.
Drew
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Yikes, dum...in Athens traffic?? Welcome! By the way, we're not all guys; there are some ladies on here too.
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Thanks for the welcome. I suppose like everyone here, I've been a car enthusiast since I was a kid, and was quite obsessed through my 20's. Along the way I worked on many cars both for myself and professionally, but very little on Mercedes. They were just out of my reach. My most extensive projects were full restorations of a BMW 2002, and a '63 E-Type. Then along came kids and other aspects of life took over. I finally sold the E-Type to put an addition on my house. That was 20 years ago and until now cars have just been tools for me.
I always loved the Pagodas and started thinking about getting an older car again. Then for Xmas and my 50th, my wife gave me one. Not an actual one, but she set the gears in motion and engaged a friend who's a car buyer to try to find one. I'll follow up in a few days with the story of my purchase.
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Have owned my 1970 280SL for 31 years. In 1980 installed a 240D engine and turbo'd it. Later added 5spd trans and 3.23 rear. In 2000 after blowing out the 240TD replaced it with a 300td engine. All the moving parts in the engine and turbo were moly-chromed. At present this car burns 25% recycled vegtable oil and gets 30-35 mpg. Runs sweet. Will send pictures later.
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Welcome Twistedtree and Dr AJ
We'd love to see pictures of the engine compartment of your oil burner!
Peter
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At present this car burns 25% recycled vegtable oil and gets 30-35 mpg. Runs sweet. Will send pictures later.
Hi Dr. Aj and welcome,
Pictures would be interesting but what dose it smell like?
I suspose that depends where the vegetable oil came from, fish & chip shop?, KFC?, McDonalds?
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Hi
As I have already received some good advice from some of you I thought it would only be proper to introduce myself.
My name is Frank Gimpel and live in Fredericton NewBrunswick Canada and am 65 years old, married and retiered from the Canadian armed Forces for a number of years now.
My first posting was Hemmer Germany in the early 60's were I saw my first Pagoda. That car always stayed in the back of my mind.
I went back to Hemmer in the late 60's now married were my wife and I saw a number of Pagodas. As I would always comment my wife finally said if you like them so much why not bring one back. (yes yes yes)
So we started looking for a good used one. In the summer of 1973 we found one at the MB dealer in Friedburg. It was a 1968 280sl automatic in like new condition.
The car has travelled back and forth to Germany twice and has given us nothing but pleasure for the passed 37 years. And hopefull many more.
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gimp,
Welcome to the group.
With 37 years of enjoyment and experience, I look forward to you sharing with us and I hope we can continue to help you.
I have found these members to be a wealth of knowledge and generosity.
When you get some time, I'm sure I'm not the only one who would like to see pictures of your car and learn more about it.
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I am very pleased to have been introduced to the sl113 site. Let me present myself, I am John Brown of Grosse Pointe, MI. I own a dark blue 1966 230 SL with a white grey interior.
The car was bought for my mother by my father in late 65’ or early 66’ (I don't have the exact date with me right now) from Wood Imports/Motors in Detroit. I remember being driven to elementary school in it and taking my drivers test for my license in it when I turned 16.
My mother gave me the car in 2000 as she knew that I was the only one of her children who really cared about it and would try to restore it. Well 10 years and as you all know way too many $$$ later the car is unfinished. I was being severely taken advantage of and I too was complacent, not checking on the restoration frequently enough and being too nice of a guy all the while not being sure of exactly where the money was going.
Finally, I met some people from the MBCA, joined and have moved the car to a new shop, Motorwerks and through them I have met Mike Salemi. Mike has been wonderful taking my calls and answering my questions at any time. He has come to look at my car and offer his wealth of knowledge. I thank him for that, he has also steered me to full membership in sl113.org. One day I hope to show all of you the finished currently sleeping beauty.
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Welcome and we look forward to seeing the result. You've found a great guide in Mike!
Peter
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This is a bit late for me since I've been a member of this fantastic forum for almost 2 years. My name is Ulf Westmark-Højelsen, 36 of age, living in Copenhagen, Denmark, father of 2 kids (that occasionally gets a ride with Dad), employed as a creative in advertising.
My car is a 1965 230 SL in silver with burgundy interior. The car was originally purchased by an American named Sam Krasner in Germany and imported to San Diego. He had is restored (guess mid-90's) and later sold it to Larry Liebermensch also in San Diego. He put it in commission in a dealership due to a change of focus from Mercs to Datsuns (Duh?). In 2002 the car was sold and imported to a fellow Dane from whom I purchased it in 2007. Unfortunately, I can't find the first owner and has lost contact to the second. Apart from regular servicing I haven't had to do much to it besides having the bushes in the gear shifter replaced, new timing chain, brake pads, new soft top and a few other minor issues.
But the car is great - quite a change from the MGA who used to occupy my garage. The Merc is my 6th and hopefully last classic - the previously owned classics has been a 72' Citrôen Mehari (jeep-like thing based on the 2CV), a real jeep in the shape of a 1961 Willys M38A1, a 1967 Triumph Spitfire MkIII, a 1969 Triumph TR6, and two 88" Series III Land Rovers of which I have kept one. Daily driver is a tatty 1996 BMW 518i, that could use some of the TLC (and money!) that goes into the Pagoda and the Land Rover...
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Hello Ulf,
Nice to meet you and welcome. Yes I recall seeing your posts for some time. Sounds like you have a nice SL .
Happy Motoring!
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HI DEAR FRIENDS, MY NAME IS ALEX PASQUEL I LIVE IN LEON GUANAJUATO MEXICO, I HAVE A 250 SL 1967 VIN 000566, A JANUARY 67 CAR, IT WAS IMPORTED FROM TEXAS IN 1988, I OWNE THIS HANDSOME SINCE THEN, IT WAS WHITE CREAM 650 H, WITH BLACK MBTEX, I RESTED 300 TO THE CODE, TO BECOME A 350 H MID BLUE WITH TAN LEATHER, I DID THIS WORK 15 YR AGO, I USE TO BE THE STANDOX DEALER AND PAINT TEACHER, FOR THE CENTRAL PART OF MEXICO, WITH THE 95 MONETARY DEVALUATION, I CLOSED THE SHOP, AND BECAME A BAKER, YOU PAY FIRST, AND THEN YOU EAT THE DOUGHNUT :D
MI CAR IS ONLY USED FOR SHOWS AND PARADES, I AM CURRENTLY THE PRESIDENT OF THE ANTIQUE CAR CLUB OF THE STATE OF GUANAJUATO, IN THE CLUB WE ALSO HAVE 2 MORE PAGODAS 280 SL. 3 190 SL, ONE, 220 54 CONVERTIBLE, ONE MB 56 TRUCK DOUBLE TIRES ON REAR WITH A 190 GASOLINE ENGINE
PLEASE IF YOU COME TO CENTRAL MEXICO, FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME FOR ANY HELP YOU NEED, MY CITY IS KNOWN FOR BEEN THE SHOE CAPITAL OF THE AMERICAN CONTINENT. WE ARE 100 MILES NORTH FROM SAN MIGUEL ALLENDE, THERE WE HAVE MORE THAN 10,000 AMERICAN GRANDPAS AND GRANDMAS, LIVING THERE, SOON I WILL POST SOME PHOTOS, OF MY CAR, HAVE A NICE DAY. :)
ALEX PASQUEL
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Welcome Alex,
and thanks for the invitation... We'd love to see some photos f your car and those of the other members of your club.
Peter
(PS: please don't type in all CAPITALS... it's considered shouting on the worldwideweb).
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Dear Peter.
Day by day we learn somthing new, soon i will get the pictures of our cars, that i imagine will post them in the section specific for that?
Best regards
;)
Alex
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Hello Alex,
Nice to meet you and welcome. Some day I would like to run "La Carrera Panamerican Road Rally down there in a vintage Mercedes.
I would cetainly let you know if plans become firm.
I spent some time in central Mexico in the early 80's. I was on a quest to find the parts left over from the Mercedes Assembly Plant in Mexico City. I was only twenty five years old at the time and a few hundred American dollars went a long way in those days. I had read that in the late 50's and early 60's Mercedes automobiles had been assembled there, including at least one 300SL, some 190SLs and a variety of sedans, coupes and cabs.
Spent a week of asking a lot of questions in my not so good Spanish, and followed leads all over the city. Our cab driver/guide hoped we would never find the treasure since he was doing quite well on fares! We did manage to find the treasure of parts after a week of searching. On the second floor of a building in Mexico City we found factory new 300SL, 190SL, MB coupe and cab parts in quantities everywhere. We brought back 14 crates of new old stock parts for mostly 190SLs, 300SLs and some coupes and cabs. Quite an experience.
We also visited other areas in Central Mexico. The climate, the people and the scenery were wonderful.
Hasta luego
Joe Alexander (ja17)
Blacklick, Ohio)
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Hello Joe,
I am glad to meet you this year the race will be special is the 200 anniversary of Mexican independence and 100 from Mex revolution, it will have a lot of special stuff, i will post tomorrow the link to all the theme and needs,
There are pagodas running also fintails, all brands of cars up to 65, most of them modified but also there is a category for not modified, they come and enjoy the ride.
In home we had one brand new 64 220 fintail, done on that factory " representations delta".
They assembled many brands including jaguars, most was a final stuff, like bumpers, headlights, interior, chrome, fenders, bonnets and trunks.
The cars came with all the mechanical part pre assembled, it was easy for the shipment, to stack those things apart, all the scratches an buffing was done here, under German rules.
Good deal you made, back then, best regards Alex
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Hello Alex,
Yes I would like to view your infomation on the event. I believe we have a link started for vintage rallies on this site.
Actually I have been signed up with pre-entry paid, for the last two years, but the current economy down turn has kept me grounded :(
Thanks,
Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio
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Dear Joe, here is the link, enjoy it, any additional information, i will gladly give it you, in my club we have a 4 time pilot participant, he can help me solve any interrogations you can have.
best regards
Alex
http://www.lacarrerapanamericana.com.mx/registro2.asp
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Thanks alex,
I will keep you informed if we can make it this year.
best regards,
Joe Alexander
blacklick, Ohio
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Hi, my name is Chris Heg. I live in Seattle, Washington. Today I became the owner of 280SL through a long strange process:
In 1983 I bought a driver 1956 190SL, which I still own. I had it mechanically rebuilt in between '83 and '85. At the time I was working 6 months a year in Alaska so my father undertook to supervise and pay the bills on the rebuild when I was away. This got him interested in Mercedes and in '85 he bought a Tobacco Brown 1969 280SL. He drove it happily for about 10 years then offered it to me if I wanted to sell the 190SL. At the time I did not want a car with an automatic and had 2 other old Mercedes so I turned him down. He finally sold it to a mutual acquaintance in 2001 for the bluebook value, $6000, much less than it was worth. There was Promissory note setting out the terms and interest or a 2 year payoff.
Due to work and other interests I parked the 190SL in my garage for about 8 years until last year when a friend helped me get it on the road again. One day I was taking my father (now 90 years old) out for a ride and I asked him what ever happened to the 280. He said that he sold it to this guy but he had never paid it off. I asked if I could look into it and he said go ahead.
The "buyer" still works in the same place he did when I knew him 20 years ago so I went and talked to him. He said yes, I'll pay it off, blah blah blah, here's a check for part of it...but don't cash it until I call you, there's not enough in the account. Then no call, nothing. So I asked my father if he still had the contract. He did and I calculated that the guy now owed over $10000 in principal, interest, and penalties. Also the contract said that the buyer was liable for legal fees if we had to sue him to get paid.
I went back to the buyer and explained all this and he agreed to give the car back since he didn't have the money. My father said he didn't need a project car but he would rather give the car to me than to the buyer who stiffed him for 9 years. So now I have 2 classic Mercedes.
As far as I can tell the car is rust free. It has 2 tops, Automatic, AC, original paint and interior, and the engine starts and runs well. I found the Data Card. The car has basically been parked since my father sold it. So far I've found that I need to change all of the fluids, fix the stuck front brakes, replace the shifter bushings, and that there is a hole in the center exhaust pipe. Still, the price is definitely right. ;D
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Welcome Chris,
A great outcome and I bet your dad is happy with it too.
Some of the stories on the introductions are really interesting. I only found out a few weeks ago myself that my car had been in New Zealand at some time in its life. Still trying to trace how it ended up half way around the world.
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Welcome Chrisheg !
That is a great story.
If you get a chance, many of us would enjoy seeing pictures or your cars.
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As requested, here are some pictures of my motor toys. Enjoy!
My newly acquired '69 280SL
(http://home.comcast.net/~cheg01/280_front.jpg)
(http://home.comcast.net/~cheg01/280_back.jpg)
(http://home.comcast.net/~cheg01/280_interior.jpg)
My '56 190SL - definitely a driver, not a restoration.
(http://home.comcast.net/~cheg01/190_front.jpg)
(http://home.comcast.net/~cheg01/190_back.jpg)
(http://home.comcast.net/~cheg01/190_interior.jpg)
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I can't tell from the pictures.
Is your 280 gray or brown?
They both look like great cars.
When you are ready to let go of the 280, I'll give you double what you paid. ;D
Thanks for posting the pix.
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I can't tell from the pictures.
Is your 280 gray or brown?
Tobacco Brown
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Hey everyone!
My name is Kevin, and my dad and I bought a 1964 230SL about 2 years ago. It is a grey-market car with about 80,000km on the clock and it's in great condition. I live in Spokane Washington and I am looking for sources for parts for the 230SL. I'll post pictures when the car gets out of storage ;D
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Hello all,
I'm Carlo from Belgium, currently (only) 24 years old.
Since I was little i was a big fan of Mercedes-Benz, my dad drove a W123 300D so I experienced the marque daily. When I grew up, nothing much changed. I studied Economics and Marketing, and then turned to Automotive Engineering.
Meanwhile I assisted a friend of my father with the restoration of some old Mercs.
Sadly the W123 was sold in 1999 after standing for 10 years in a shed in the garden, so when I wanted to buy my own car, I had to go and buy something else. Due to limited space i bought a classic mini to restore.
But restoration went a lot slower than life, being in my last year of college, I had to go to the Mercedes-Benz Belgium HQ every day, so I needed my car. Offcourse it wasn't ready yet. ;D
Luckily my neighbour just bought her new Boxster, so she loaned me her old BMW Convertible to drive in while I tried to sell it. When I graduated I had the luck to be able to start working at the local Mercedes Dealership, so I sold the mini and the BMW and bought myself a Alfa Romeo. As Jeremy Clarckson stated: "You cannot be a true petrolhead until you've owned an Alfa Romeo – it's like having really great sex which leaves you with an embarrassing itch".
Getting in my Alfa 155 was a real disappointment after spending all day between mercs, so within 6 weeks I sold the Alfa and bought myself a Mercedes SL.
Last week, one of our clients, a guy I played hockey with a couple years ago asked me to call him after work because he had a request. So I did, and so he requested me to restore his 1968 280SL.
And that's why I turned up here, hoping to find people who know what I'm going trough and can help me when possible. And offcourse I will do my best to help other people out myself.
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Welcome !
Which SL did you buy?
Good luck to you on the restoration of your client's 280 SL.
We always like to see pictures !
Beste Groeten,
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I bought myself a 1991 R129 300SL-24
(http://users.telenet.be/carlomarchand/SL/21944041.jpg)
And sadly I only have 2 pictures from the 280SL at this moment because restoration has'nt started yet.
2007:
(http://users.telenet.be/carlomarchand/DSC03090%20(Small).JPG)
Last week
(http://users.telenet.be/carlomarchand/020420102443%20(Small).jpg)
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New member, not yet an owner !
I've been toying with old 2 seat European cars for a number of years on a hobby basis. Some of the projects I've undertaken included a bare metal restoration, but I've found those take too much time and energy. I like doing a lot of work myself even if I still don't have professional-level skills. I have a small machine shop in my basement and I like to tinker. Mostly, I've kept the cars I've undertaken, but I recently sold one and I now have a whole in my garage and a bit of cash on hand :)
I've always had a thing for the pagoda roof cars and would like to have one as a weekend car. I look forward to the challenge of learning new systems (never worked on power brakes or power steering, for example) and keeping a nice car in good working order.
I posted in the wanted to buy forum what it is I'm looking for: a nice red on tan or cream car, with a manual transmission. Does not need to be perfect, just no rust, decent looking and decent running. The rest I can work on and have fun with.
I also look forward to contributing to this site !
Cheers,
Michel Richard
Saint-Lambert, Québec
mrichard58@videotron.ca
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New member, not an owner
My cousin brought an SL back from Italy when he came home from the Army, in about 67 or 68. He sold the car a couple of years later and moved overseas again, but I still remember that car. I was still in high school then, and really drooled over it.
Found this forum and thought I'd look around. Maybe start looking for a new hobby...
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hi people
new member today-my first 280 sl i bought in 1990 it was a rusty wreck - 4 new wings - front and rear panel - inner and outer sills - floors - boot floor - front cross member - all chrome work - etc etc - finnished it had no money left so had to sell-put it in a classic car auction - auctioner said if this was a football match this car is the man of the match-a proud moment for me-i have just bought (i hope) a 280 sl from california usa-it is they say a very good rust free car-that needs no work-i do hope its as good as it looks-just waiting for it to land-i hope to drive it down to tenerife later in the year after i give it a service etc-have a look see what you think-www kentcollection . com - cars recently sold - would have liked a silver one but this colour grew on me the more i looked at it - is it arab grey ? ime 56 now and dont want to restore anything else i just want to drive it- one used to park near my parents house when i was small - my father used to spend hours looking at it - he never did get one - not alot of good when you have children - mine are grown up now and flown the nest - so its reggie time 8)
Reg
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Hello all !
I am Karl Kristian from Norway (only Karl is OK). 52 years, engineer in oil business. have been working on motorbikes and cars since I was kid, but had never owned an SL before when i got my -64 230SL august 2008. It was already totally gone over. Living in a flat today I have limited possibilities for big jobs on the car myself. Need to use specialist garages. Looking to find a solution to that :) I like using my hands and head on the car.
I am impressed of all the information sheared in here, and want to contribute if I can.
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Hi all, thought I'd take a moment for a little intro about myself. My name is Rolland and have owned my 280SL for about 5 years now. For the most part, I've driven my Pagoda enjoying every minute of it. This year I decided to change things up a little as even though it has a strong engine, a lot of it is a bit tired and needing a little TLC, so decided this would be the time to give her a new coat of paint. Originally it was white, but somewhere in the past it was painted Signal Red which I will be keeping. I'm a believer cars were meant to be driven, so she is not trailer queen.
My Pagoda is was built in 1968, is a Euro version, 4spd stick, black MB Tex, both tops, kinder seat and still has the leather luggage strap (oh, how sweet a set of luggage would be).
Below are listed our other MB's, all a little different My first Benz was a 57 180 gas sedan. I sold it in the mid 70's and after a while of driving various autos, I returned to these fine cars.
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Welcome to all new members...
We're very pleased you found us, and hope you will share stories of your cars and adventures with us all. If you have any questions please post them in the appropriate forums! I'm sure you'll find lots of helpful people to help out.
Peter van Es
President, Pagoda SL Group
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hello everyone - My name is Dieter from UK...of austro-german descent i have always loved pagodas and have finally taken the plunge......I am a 'retired' 44 yr old Chartered Surveyor back in the uk now after many years of being in business in Dubai.
Cars have always been in my blood - As a kid in the early 70's I used to type letters, yes on a typewriter (!) to Ferrari/Porsche etc dealers as if my father had typed them requesting test drives - i would then admit to my dad what i had done - he would laugh and get the call for the test-drive and i got to go in a Ferrari or Porsche (I also remember a Series III Lambo Espada and Lotus Elite) and my dad got the fun of the test drive........happy days.........I used to collect all the brochures and.......sad but true I still have all of them.........
Having owned ferrari's and other exotics its time now for some individuality/class and panache and no other car does it for me like the pagoda does.....speed is no longer a factor which is a good job!
I have purchased a 250sl which will be restored (i have posted a few topics and got some great response) a rather sorry looking ivory/red, which will become silver/red.....also looking at a 66 230 sl in Arizona - one owner car white/tan.........
So many of you have helped me so far and thx to you all.
Rgds
Dieter
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Hi,
just taken the plunge and brought a '69 280sl project to complete to daily driver status. Always wanted one so looking forward to getting it into shape and on the road.
Car was originally Horizon Blue (304G) but has been recently repainted to Silver, though it could have been done a lot better unfortunately. it's essentially rust free and appears to have all the trim etc to put back together. It came with all new carpets, softtop, various bit of new trim and heater leavers etc. Interior is original blue mb-tex in good condition, once I clean it! Car is running though quite rich so in need of a tune to smooth it out. Have already had plenty of help reading the forum and tech manual and look forward to further assistance as I get into the project.
Greg
'69 280SL
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Welcome and congratulations....
Peter
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Greg -
Welcome - you look like a 'proud father' beside your new baby! Please raise it 'right'!
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Welcome to the Forum Greg,
There are a few of us across the bay. Good to see another Southern hemisphere 113 getting a new life
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Welcome to the Group and forum Greg.
Congrats on your new acquisition.
There is also great resource for older Mercs right on your doorstep. You might have heard of him or met him before - a gentleman by the name of Lloyd Marx based in Hamilton.
He fixed a leaky cold start valve for my pagoda when I was working in Hamilton in 2005. Suffice to say, I carried it in my luggage as no-one here in South Africa was willing to touch a leaky valve for repair and I didn't feel confident lapping the valve myself. :(
May you have many enjoyable km's in your pagoda.
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I have been a member for a little over a year now, and have been trolling the site for quite a while before becoming a member. It is an invaluable site and I enjoy reading about other owners experiences and the details of the cars. I am not very mechanically inclined, and don't do much work on my car myself.
My current Pagoda (which is my second) is a 1968 280SL, which I purchased in 1994. Previously, I owned another 1968 280SL that I had about 18 months, which served as a lesson on what not to do when purchasing and owning an old car, from buying the car sight unseen from a fly-by-night used car dealer a thousand miles away (needless to say, the car was in much worse condition than advertised) to spending untold sums upgrading the mechanicals without even considering the possibility of rust (which ultimately led me to sell the car at a considerable loss just to stop the bleeding). I had been bitten by the Pagoda bug, though, and it wasn’t long before I was out looking for another. After inspecting a number of Pagodas in the New York City area (where I live) that were in one way or another sub-par, I saw an ad in Hemmings by Hatch for a low mileage (69,000) one-owner car. The car drove well, and was in reasonable shape, except for a little rust in the usual places. Deciding to take the opposite approach from my first adventure, I had Hatch completely restore the car. I opted for some changes from the original specifications, changing the color from 726 grey beige to 728 beige grey metallic, 131 black MB Tex to 248 dark brown leather and 740 black soft top to 746 dark brown soft top. I also added an automatic antenna, swapped the Europa radio for an anachronistic Becker Mexico radio/cassette with Becker speakers in the foot wells and added a passenger mirror. I have put about 8,000 miles on the car, mainly on sunny weekends, and have it serviced by the local Mercedes dealer. The car is soon to need a new exhaust system, and could use an upgrade to the original Kangol three point belts.
Data card information and other facts are below:
Serial number 113044-12-000870
DB 726 Grey Beige
131 Black MB Tex
740 Black soft top
401 Single Seats
416 Hardtop mounted
426 Power Steering/Automatic Transmission on Floor
491 USA version
503 outside rearview mirror left
515 Radio Becker Europa AM-FM
524 Paint coat preservation
598 Heat insulated Glass All Around
600 Chrome Roof Bars
641 White Wall Tires
669 mode of packing VE II
Originally purchased from Automotive Engineering, Lexington MA on May 4, 1968 for a purchase price of $7798.
Below are some pictures.
Marc
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Marc,
welcome to the club, and you have a very nice specimen.
If I may ask, "what kept you" from joining sooner, or indeed, posting sooner?
Peter
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Hi All,
My fascination with older (pre 1973) Mercedes started many years ago in High School, where my best friend had a 1961 190SL, then later a 1968 250 SE (W108). We drove around Oregon for years in both cars. I was fascinated by the presence, quality and advanced design of the cars — and they made a life long impression on me. Not long after high School, I purchased a 1966 250SE fixer-upper — but I made the mistake of getting a car with rust, and was not the right car to restore (although I got it in top running condition). I sure learn't my lesson on that one!
Now, years later and at age 53, I have (some of) the knowledge, patience and commitment to enjoying a classic Mercedes again — but this time I plan to take my time to find the right one, preferably a 280SL (but can't decide — it may be a '68 - '72 280SE instead ... they are allot less money!) ... one that is either a solid all original or well reconditioned car. I especially love the mechanical injected engines (common to both the 280SL and SE), so smooth, and the unique engine sound they make is music to my ears (the "cammy" engine sound and exhaust note especially).
Hope to learn allot through this Membership, and perhaps get to know some of the members. I plan to have found the right car before end of the year (2010). I have one other classic car — a 1966 Land Rover Series IIa 88 (restored) — a very enjoyable car with lots of character!
Julian
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Welcome to the group!!
Rolland
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Hello Everyone,
I purchased my 1967 250sl a few weeks ago under the influence of a good friend of mine who is an avid and serious collector of antique cars. I have been obviously reading this forum for a while. My car is quite solid, but needs some cosmetic restoration, so this is going to be a learning experience for me. This is my first convertible and for sure the prettiest car I have ever driven. I also own a 1995 w124 (E420) - a very different animal.
(http://leukocyte.smugmug.com/photos/928751949_ywzmo-M.jpg)
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Welcome to the group Xenograph, your comment that you plan some cosmetic restoration brought a knowing smile to my face, and I am sure lots of others here. Thats how it always starts but there is something about the Pagoda that makes you think that you can make it look just that bit better and it becomes addictive.\
;)
enjoy
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I have quite a few addictive passions already - I know all about it...
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Bob Killam
Westfield Ma.
Joined yesterday,Rejoined actually,Owner of a white 68 250 with red leather,Car is A great runner and driven A lot,Car was one owner and was in heated storage for 15 years before I bought it,Now has 140000 on it and is tight as A fiddle,Did the Jaw thing to the side window today thanks to the advice found here.I have owned it for about 6 years now,I am the owner of A small machine shop and at 77 I still hang around here daily being A pain in the Butt,
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Congratulations. For us younger member what "is the jaw thing to the side window?"
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Hello Everyone,
My name is Dale and I just joined so I'm new to this site, but have owned my 1968 250 SL for about 8 years. I believe I'm the 4th owner of this white-with-red-interior beauty, having been kept for it's first 30 years by a Chicago socialite who kept it as her summer toy. When I bought it it had about 53,000 original miles and everything is original except the paint and top, which I just had replaced due to mouse damage while in storage last winter. Due to the Illinois climate I store it at least 6 months every year from November to May, disconnecting the battery. Every spring for 8 years now I've reconnected the battery, it starts with the first turn of the key, and the clock starts up again. The clock usually loses a little time, but the fact that it still runs after 42 years is, to me, nothing short of amazing. This year I had the radio restored to original condition by a firm out in New Jersey or Pennsylvania who did an excellent job. I also had the dashboard wood, radio speaker grill and center console restored.
I know I have a rusting-out floorboard under the driver's seat which I'm hoping to have repaired soon. I'm 55 and plan to hang on to this for the rest of my life if possible, then pass it along to my son someday. I only drive it on the nicest of days, averaging about 1000 to 1500 miles per year maximum. I'd really like to research the history of my car since everything I "know" is just heresay from the previous owner. Though a good friend and trustworthy, he buys and sells many cars and I don't think he ever "bonded" with this one the way I have. The paint job is ok, but someday I hope to have it stripped and give it a first class paint job.
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Welcome to the group Dale, you'll find lots of things to research here... a good start is the Data Card section in the Technical Manual: http://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/Start. Also, post some pictures of your beauty!
Peter
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Hi, My name is Robert and I came across a 71 280sl in a barn that had not been driven since 95 when the owner died. The son who I bought it from was never allowed to get near the car, and has never even ridden in it. I have restored several cars and look at this as the most challenging. I really like this forum and have allready spoken to some of you. Anyway, the son that I got this car from was afraid to even touch the car for fear his father would come back and spank that a**. The son is 58 years old. I traded a corvette for it, but I see a lot more potential in it than the 76 corvette that was restored. Hope you all get as big a kick out of this story as i did.
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Hi, my name is Ron Russell and I live in Tulsa, Ok. I bought this 71 280 SL in the mid 90s and put about 30,000 miles on it before it broke.
Anyway I pulled the engine out and AM having trouble finding head rebuild parts. If anyone knows where to purchase valves and guides I would appreciate your help.
Thanks,
Ron
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Hello,
My name is Doug. I live in Newnan, GA, about 45 miles south of Atlanta. My wife is the owner of what I believe to be a 1966 230SL. I started a post in General Discussion requesting help identifying it. She has owned it since before I met her and has been in the garage the whole time, except a couple of week period many years ago. During that time I drove it and I rendered it undrivable. The car was purchased by my stepchildren's (age 16 & 12) deceased father. When I say purchased I mean it was actually traded for some land. That's how we do business in the south. I am hoping to restore it to drivable condition for them, but have limited mechanical ability. I will probably spend a lot of time on here asking questions and seeking advice. As stated in my other post I don't have a lot of money to dump into it and would like to keep it mostly original. It has been partially restored already, requiring mostly engine work. I am new to this and will try searching for answers before asking and would like to apologize in advance for any dumb questions I might ask. Thanks.
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Welcome all, and please post your questions. Hope your rebuild / restorations will be successful!
Peter
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Hello-My name is Wendy and I have just inherited my Dad's 1971 280 SL white exterior black interior.
My Dad purchased this car when I turned 16 in Oakland, CA and drove it from San Rafael, CA to San Francisco every day for work.
We then moved to Iowa and he drove it most of the year. I just recently brought the car to North Carolina. I am excited to now have my Dad's one and only hobby with me as my new hobby....a bit bitterweet.
Looking forward to learning about the car my mom calls "the money pit"!
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They always say you should listen to your mother :-\ Sorry to hear about your Dad. Bittersweet indeed
welcome. You do realise you have to post a picture. It's less so we can see it than to actually go through the right of passage of working out how to post one ;)
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Hi
Our 280 SL-69 was imported to Sweden from Holland 1976
2003 we bought the car from a friend who owned it since the import.
As I know it was originally white and repainted before 1976.
The first and only thing we replaced was the alloy wheels into standard wheels.
We enjoy our Pagoda and hope to meet some of you "out there" one fine day.
Richard & Kirsten
Here are some pics.
(http://www.57chevy.se/Our_cars/Sidor/Mercedes-Benz_280SL_files/Media/PICT0092/PICT0092.jpg)
(http://www.57chevy.se/Our_cars/Sidor/Mercedes-Benz_280SL_files/Media/PICT1567/PICT1567.jpg)
(http://www.57chevy.se/Our_cars/Sidor/Mercedes-Benz_280SL_files/Media/PICT0500/PICT0500.jpg)
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Welcome Richard.
Nice looking car - how many times have you caught your leg on the tail pipe. ???
Reg
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Thanks. The tail pipe is shortened and looks normal. :)
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Is that a 906 paint code?
whatever it is, it looks stunning with the red interior! welcome
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Hi,
My is Alex and I 'm new to this whole Mercedes thing. My wife and I inherited a 1967 250SL from my father-in-law. Just starting to learn about the car. It hasn't been drive for 3-4 years and is in the shop, the mechanic whose worked on this car in years past is really having a hard time getting it running. Anyone have any suggustions for good 250SL mechanic in the Cleveland, OH area?
Alex D
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Hi Alex
Welcome aboard to you and your wife. Try the ignition tour in the Manual (full membership required) or contact Joe Alexander (ja17 is his handle) in Columbus OH. Joe is one of the gurus on this website and hosts the biannual Pagoda University. Either way, the car should be up and running in no time
Drew
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Thank You.
Alex D
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After 10 years of searching , I finally found my 1970 280 sl red w/tan interior, looking forward to chatting sharing stories, Have also found a fabulous mechanic.....I am father of three daughters all gone from the nest, and now I have the time to enjoy.....
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Hello everyone,
I have just become a member of this wonderful forum. My name is Bryan Johnson. I am 51 years of age, marrried with no children. I am a school principal in the state of Florida. I have loved the Pagodas since I was about 15 years of age. I have found the people associated with this forum to be incredible. I recently posted a request to drive a 280SL since I have not driven these cars in many years. I do not own one yet but I hope to in the next year or so. One of the members in Florida contacted me, invited me to his home and we drove his 1971 280SL. I look forward to gaining an education and the wonderful fellowship which comes from associating with like minded people.
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*Ron - is that a Daimler Dart sitting next ot your Pagoda?
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First of all, I am so happy to have found this great Website and my thanks to all the fellow Pagoda owners for the wealth of information that they have contributed.
I saw my first 230 SL in a parking lot near where I worked back in 1964. I immediately fell in love with the car and began saving every penny. I was 20 years old at the time. In the fall of 1966 I placed an order for a 230 SL (but due to the order’s timing was changed to the new 250 SL) and took delivery in May of the following year. Unfortunately after only having the car for a couple of months, another car made an abrupt left turn in front of me and the Mercedes crash worthiness was put to a test. No injuries resulted but the car was a wreck. After spending nearly two months in a Mercedes Dealer Body Shop, I got the car back but things were just not same. In June 1968, I ordered a 280 SL identical to the 250 SL (White with Cognac interior) and took delivery in September, trading in my old 250 SL. Most of the 70k miles that are on the odometer were driven during the first 8 years of ownership. After that came marriage, children and other life’s priorities and the SL became an occasional weekend car then eventually stored away in the Garage. Ten years ago I retired and we moved from Southern California to the central part of the state where we now live, towing the Mercedes behind our U-Haul. The car continued to sit until one day my neighbor introduced me to an independent Mercedes mechanic who really enjoys working on the old ‘Benzs. After spending a few months at his shop I got the car back and am happy to say she runs beautifully. Surprisingly the car was in great shape. Hoses, belts, braking system, clutch, exhaust system, fuel system, cooling system, heater control levers and tires were the main areas of replacement/repair. The car is rust free and has it’s original paint which looks as good as it did 42 years ago. The soft top is also original and was amazed to see that it is still in excellent condition after being folded up for nearly 30 years! Even the plastic rear window is still crystal clear. The interior upholstery is MBtex showing very little wear but unfortunately the tunnel carpet was damaged when the shifter bushings were replaced so a replacement is on order from GAHH. There is more work to be done but in the mean time, my wife and I feel like kids again when we are out driving our old friend.☺. A few pictures are posted on the “Photo Gallery” section of the Forum. Thanks for reading my “novel”.
49er
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49er
Thats a great story.
As the original owner you are probably a good authority and source for what is original in a 280 and can provide photos of original items if needed.
Nice to see someone who made the good decision not to sell for all those years.
Garry
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Mark Passarelli here. Not exactly new here just relocated to Hawaii big island from AZ. Have re-registered and set up my somewhat more casual restoration shop here in Naalehu Hawaii. Free restoration advice and consultation as always so dont be shy. Good to be back. I will post my new website soon, old wesite still up at www.ranchomerced.com Mark
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Mark Passarelli here. Not exactly new here just relocated to Hawaii big island from AZ. Have re-registered and set up my somewhat more casual restoration shop here in Naalehu Hawaii. Free restoration advice and consultation as always so dont be shy. Good to be back. I will post my new website soon, old wesite still up at www.ranchomerced.com Mark
Lucky you - visited Hawaii in the 90's and it is among my top-5 favorite places on earth and a really great place for a Pagoda :-)
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Hi Member,
Just joined this forum and it has made me already a lot wiser.
I'm from The Netherlands and just bought my first 230SL from '64. It starts, drives and the electronics seems to work (wipers, lights) but in need of a restauration. With your help I hope to fulfill this.
Regards
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Hello All,
I am the proud new owner of a 1969 280SL (123,159 miles, silver with black interior). This car belonged to my father, and it mostly remained in storage since his death in 1990. My sister had inherited the car, and I just recently was able to purchase it from her. I love the car, much in part to the sentimental value it has for me and my sister. When we were young, Dad would take one of us for some "special time" on a cruise, usually on a summer evening with the top off.
I am very glad to come across this well-pollished site as I prepare to bring the old car back to life. My participation here might not be much at first, but I did want to introduce myself. As the spring comes, I look forward to diving into this project, and I am sure this site will become an invaluable resource. I hope to meet some new friends as well.
Sincerely,
Aaron
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Welcome to all new members... remember, post a picture and receive Oooohs and Ahhh's!
Peter
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Hey 113 Fanatics. My name is Mike and have been involved with Mercedes for quite a while. I've owned and worked on many 113's over the years but I have a special connection with my 280. I live in Santa Barbara and am always looking to get more involved with the Mercedes community. My wife Debrah drives an s280 and we've been happily married for 20 years. Wish you all the best in hopes of furthering the community through our social networks and interactions.
-Mike
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Hello All,
I registered last July but this is my first post. I’ve just sold a 69 Ferrari (do I hear applause?) that has taken much of my time since 1985, so now I have time to work on the 1967 230 SL that I bought in 1987 and have neglected since. My lifestyle was “Work on the Ferrari / Drive the Mercedes”. That’s the difference between vintage Italian cars and vintage German cars.
I’m a retired automotive engineer (retired from DaimlerChrysler in Auburn Hills, Michigan in 2001) and am now living across the St-Laurence River from Québec City, Canada.
I am really impressed with the sophistication of this web site and am looking forward to visiting the forum every day. I expect that I will need a lot of help, so please be patient with me.
The SL was originally parchment with turquoise vinyl and has a Kinder seat. I bought it with terrible quality medium blue metallic paint and I installed navy blue leather.
By the way, TOMNISTUFF means to me, “Tom, interested in many things.”
Tom Kizer
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.......welcome to the club Tom, I am happy to see that recently more Canadians are signing up.
One of the greatest things about this website is that it is truly International: Where else can you get helpful advise from a member in Ireland, and another time dispense advise to someone in Australia, and later help a guy in Tin Buck To with the installation of his starter......
Who ever is in charge here deserves the Nobel Peace Price, Why can't the leaders of our assorted Countries get along as well as we do.......?!
CHEERS !
WITT !
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Welcome Tom.
Witt's right this is a great international group and a fantastic resource and help in restoring or just maintaining your Pagoda.
Mind you I may commit blasphemy by saying that a '69 Ferarri sitting beside my Pagoda would look nice. I wish.
Garry
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Welcome Tom and Mike
....... Where else can you get helpful advise from a member in Ireland...
Never confuse what an Irishman is saying with advice! ;D
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Hello All,
I am new here, just joined.
A week ago I decided to start looking for a Pagoda anywhere in the US and have it imported to my country for a complete overhaul.
I have few questions about this car (my dream car), i will start asking on the forum.
Dan
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Hello Everybody
It feels great to be here.
My name is Basem, and I am from Kuwait. An electrical engineer by profession and married with four children (3 daughters and a son), I own 1973 280SE coupe (W111), and just bought a 1967 250SL in great physical shape, only one problem though the engine turns but doesn't start. I'm sure that I will get it running with help from you all and this site. My 280SE is gold color with light beige interior, the 250SL is a dark red with black interior.
Thank you all and kindest regards
Basem
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Hi all. I just took delivery of my new 71 280SL. This is a newer Benz for me formerly I had a 1938 170V Cab A. I had to get something modern with boosted brakes, A/C and automatic. I'm 71 and had to giveup on the 38 with a bad right knee couldn't stop her. Also the US ethenol was kicking up a fuss.
Look forward to participating--I'm mechanical but with age, I pay for most repairs. I love the engineering and research of "whats wrong and how to fix it"
I have several other non-Benz collector cars.
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Welcome to the group!
But a bad right knee should not force you to give up the 38.
Don't you double-clutch with your left leg? ;) ;D ;D
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Welcome to all new members... please join as a Full Member soon (see details here: http://www.sl113.org/membership.html) and post pictures of your car, whatever state it is in!
Peter
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Hi, my name is Bob. Joined today as a basic member. I have a '68 250SL, blue with parchment interior that I purchased in 1993. I am the second owner, the original owner was in Palm Beach, FL. I currently live in Arlington, VA. I use my SL as a fun car for sunny weekends and car gatherings in the local area. I learned about this website at Cars and Coffee in Great Falls, VA. Its Saturday mornings 7-9am and there are several 280SL most weekends.
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Hi; Frank Mallory ... Jr. Age: 53. Some of you might have known my father, and longtime MB enthusiast and one of the founding members of the Washington DC area MBCA where he also served as Technical Director for many years.
Much to my Dad's chagrin; I never really did get into classic Mercedes while he was alive (He passed in 2005) even though I had fond memories of riding in the back of his silver '67 250SL 5-Speed and also getting to drive it as a young man.
Sooo... After years of pining for a W113, I just bought a '68 280SL 4-Speed. It's a nice condition car, but I WILL need your help and input on some aspects of this fine ride.
Thanks in advance!
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Hi Frank ,
Your Dad was & still is well known throughout the Mercedes community. His 250 SL was a special car and has been discussed on this site more than once. Welcome aboard and good luck with your car.
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Hello everyone, I have been lurking on this site for awhile, but seeing as I have finally found my 280SL thought it was time to become a full member. I live in Maine, but do get to travel to Holland fairly often for work as a tax advisor (there seems to be quite a Dutch presence on the site). The web information has been really helpful in my selecting my car and I look forward to listening in as I try to learn more about it.
Thanks,
Geoff
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Welcome and let us know when you are in NL... I live only 30 mins (60 in traffic jams) from Amsterdam.
Peter
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Hello!
My name is Pawel. I live in Warsaw, Poland. I have been looking at classic cars for quite some time now. I have recently chosen to go for Pagoda as my first one. I think it is the one with modern enough technology to be smooth and old enough mot to be "plastic" like the next SL, the W107.
I am just about to buy my Pagoda. I have been viewing various topics on this site. It helped me tremendously before the purchase decision, especially the Technical Manual part. Helped me decode all the numbers I could decode from the plates, as Datenkarta is, of course, missing. She is 280 SL, 1970, German version, but brought to Europe back from the US. She used to be silver with blue leather upholstery. And so she will be again. I have a workshop lined up to restore her.
I am sure I will have thousands of questions and I count on your kind help.
Regards,
Pawel
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Czesc Pawel
There are a couple of places in Poland that advertise over here on the basis of being skilled labour at cheaper rates than the UK. And no doubt far more expensive than the place you have lined up!!
Congrats on your purchase
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Thanks!
The one I have is relatively new, but proven by a friend of mine who is a serious collector of classic cars. I do not think they advertise on this forum. We will see how it goes - lots of patience, lots of resources...
Pawel
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Hi to all members of this terrific forum.
I have been 'lurking' on this site for a while while I looked and finally bought a 230sl - auto with dealer fitted air. The car is in good condition - never restored - but has had a couple of panels etc repainted over the years. I have the history going back to 1977 (2 owners). What the car really needs is to be used and thoroughly gone over.
I have been involved in the Vintage car movement for over 30 years and have always built cars up from the chassis, so getting an original car is going to be a real treat for me!
I'm going to try and insert a photo - hope it works out as I see there is no way of reviewing it.
Sorry - didn't work, also still figuring out how to load an image into the profile. I have uploaded one but only get a broken link.
Cheers
Richard Rose
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Hi Richard,
Great to see you on the Forum. I got my car back yesterday, so when you want to get together let me know, I will bring it down to Melbourne and I can show you how to upload photos.
Now if we can just get a few more Australian members we could beat those Brits again!
Garry
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Thanks Garry
I think I have finally figured out the images - so here goes for the second time!
This photo was taken yesterday, on the third day of our winter, so you can see we can do top down motoring all year round, if we rug up and choose our days.
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2251/5794883199_2cf4749179_z.jpg)
Richard
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I'm glad you figured out how to post pictures, because that one is BEAUTIFUL !
Welcome to the group and enjoy your close proximity to Garry (hopefully future Board Member).
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Congrats Richard. Beautiful car. I noticed that you have the new club plates on the car. I just swapped over as well and it seems to be sooooo much better than the old system.
Unlike you we have succomb to the onslaught of winter and have the hardtop on..which is a nice change actually.
G'day Garry. Haven't spoken to you in a long time (I have not spent much time on this forum lately). Let me know if you want to catch up again.
We went to the Soffitel on Collins over the weekend with Else and gave the bellboy a thrill when he got to park the car. Apparently they don't get too many Pagodas valet parking in big city hotels.
Cheers,
Dirk
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Hello,
I am new here. For that reason a little introduction.
My name is Wing. Last name Tang. Living In Holland and owner of two MB's. A W113 230 SL Pagode and a R107 450 SL. I am owner of the 230 for over six years and over two years of the 450.
I love the looks and the technique of this cars. Driving them is very nice. But I only drives them on sunny days and on special occasions. The 230 was owned by a prince of Holland :-). He bought this car in de US when he was studying there.. And when he returned to Holland he brought it with him. He also restored the car for almost € 22.000,- (with a refurnished engine). So the car is in a good condition.
This is the car
(http://img836.imageshack.us/img836/5742/230sl.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/836/230sl.jpg/)
Two years ago a bought a 450 SL. This car also came from the US. The first owner (a lady) drove in this car till 2005. Then the car is sold to Holland and the second owner tendered the car by repainting it (glance was gone because of the Carlifornian sun). The car is also in a very good condition.
Both cars have automatic gearbox. The 450 even with electric windows, central lock and A/C.
I also make some repairs myself. Therefore I am always looking for informaiton. I hope to find the answers here.
This is a photo of my 450:
(http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/309/450sl.jpg) (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/232/450sl.jpg/)
Best regards,
Wing
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Wing,
welcome to the forum. I'm sure you'll find lots of info on your W113 SL here... I m afraid we do not specialise on the R107 but then there are other sources of information for that elsewhere on the web.
Keep reading the site, for events that we will organise in Europe... I hope to meet you at one of these!
Peter
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With reference to the above white cars owned by Richard and Wing the bonnet/hood MB motifs appear to be in different locations ,ie the MB motif on Richards car appears to be further back than the one on Wings.Is this possible or is it an optical illusion?
Is it possible for Richard and Wing to measure the distance from the front of the bonnet/hood to the motif.
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Hi Eric
That was observant. I have just measured mine and from the very 'tip' of the end of the bonnet (hood to some) to the bottom of the logo disc is 65mm. I do know that my panel has been resprayed about 15 years ago so it could easily have been relocated.
Cheers
Richard
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indeed very observative of Eric!
I measured mine just now. I also measure 65 mm. Only, from the "end" (the point) of the bonnet to the top of the motif ..
Richard,
Your car is very nice indeed. Only the steering is on the "wrong" side :D
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If you have a left side steering wheel, the top of MB disc is 65mm from the end of hood... ;)
Welcome to you both.
Hello to Gary and to Peter.
Pascal
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Good day all-
I'm a new member, finally able to start looking for the "dream car" after a lifetime of responsibilities/family/blahblah duly discharged!
This car would be a decent/great 250SL anywhere in North America, for import to Western Canada. (Failing finding the 250, I'd "settle" for a 230!!) Budget available: unfortunately only $25,000 (+ a bit if necessary). I'm not a "purist" in the truest sense of the collector- just want to drive it every summer till i pop my clogs.
I have seen a couple of possibilities in California, one or 2 in Florida, so my plea to all of you wise and knowing W113-ers out there is this:
-Is there any reputable agency I can employ to appraise/test drive in California (dealers are Legend Classic cars in Venice; Beverly Hills Motor Cars;...... ); Another in MicKinney, Texas
-Any advice on importing to Canada?
Any other tidbits would be greatly appreciated.
Many thanx in advance...
kerry
(ps- also posted this in the "EBay/Vendor" Forum... just findin' my way round this site...)
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My name is Matt Bowen. I live in McLean, VA and am joining this board to learn more about the 64 230 SL my father owns. He and Mom have been travelling quite a bit so the car has been in storage for long periods of time. I hope to acquire the knowledge parts and tools to help him reacquire and maintain the excellent running condition he previously attained. The car was thoroughly restored in the 1990s and he used it more frequently then than in the last 4 - 5 years. He may be a member here, so I'll confirm this weekend when I go visit and inspect the car. I'll also take a picture to post.
Matt
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Welcome Matt and Kerry,
Matt pictures are always welcome here.
Kerry
A good person to do an appraisal in LA is Tom Colitt, a member on this site who is also currently working on my Jag doing a left to right conversion.
Garry
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thx garry!
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Welcome to all new members... have a good look around and please participate!
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Hello
I discovered your forum yesterday and jumped in
Happy owner of a Jaguar Mk2 1961 bought a year ago , I am now considering giving her a little big sister. I read the book "Essential buyer's guide" from Chriss Bass, but I guess you have many more advice to give to a potential owner.
Is there a document on the forum gathering all valuable advice ?
I'm also considering offers for a 230SL with manual gearbox....in France where I live
;)
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Welcome Rolando - a Pagoda would complement your Jag nicely, the book you mentioned is very good as a quick check list before buying and good to bring along when looking at a car - it certainly helped me avoid some pitfalls and to negotiate the price of my car down a little :-)
Ulf
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Hello Rolando38,
there is this document on the site www.sl113.org/wiki/Buying/PrepurchaseEvaluation
and this is helpful: www.silverstarrestorations.com/113SL.htm
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If you can read German, this is also pretty good : http://www.pagode.info/
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I own a Mercedes sl 280 my dad gave it to my it is silver and it is in great condition it is the only one in my country that I know
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Nice, how about some pictures?
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Hello,
starting in spring this year I tried to gain as much information as possible about Pagodas. This forum was more than helpful in finding important information about the W113.
I started with reading every part in the Technical Manual. Then I scanned the market for possilbe buying objects - and I had to make my first learning.
I found a blue pagoda on Mallorca (an island of spain in the mediterranean sea). I saw pictures, I talked to the person who owned it via phone (an elderly lady from Germany) - and I met the person who sold it for the lady. I flew there - I organized someone who was an expert in oldtimer restoration and had already done a restoration on a pagoda - to take a look at it with me. Well, it turned out to be a rusted wreck. It was a pity about that car.
I made the decision that a rust free body is priority number one.
I found a decent Pagoda via the internet in the US - and with the help of this forum I was able to find Tom Colitt. Tom was kind enough to do a pre-purchase inspection for me. Due to his detailed report I was able to make a decision. I bought the car unseen.
I then realized, that I have to get the car through inspection here in Europe. To pass this strict test the car needed some work done on it. Since Tom Colitt knows a lot about German Engineering (he is the epitome of a Pagoda enthusiast) - he was the right one to help me. I just can say that he is a great engineer and a wonderful person.
Tom brought the Pagoda into shape and delivered her to the docks and she travelled via the Pacific, the Panama Canal, the Carribean, the Atlantic and the Channel to Bremerhaven. She then got loaded onto a truck and made another 650 miles to her new home. She was in time, because the week after her arrival it was my husbands birthday. It was my target to get her registered by that date. Due to Toms work I was able to pass inspection on the first try.
I would like to thank you all for this very terrific, informative and entertaining forum. Without this source of knowledge I would not have been able to buy a car like a Pagoda with such good confidence.
I hope I will be able to contribute with knowledge in a few months when I made my own experiences on the car.
Merci to you all,
Claudia
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Hello Caudia,
Welcome to the family of Pagoda owners and what a great birthday present for your husband. Looks like your SL might have been a California car and always kind of sad to see another leave our state but certainly glad it has found a new home where it will be well cared for. May you and your husband enjoy many miles touring your beautiful country in your "new" Mercedes.
John
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Hi Claudia and Jon. Yes, it was a very clean Southern California 280SL that went to Switzerland, but I couldn't be happier with the new home it found. This was the same car that was the subject of my rust-preservation presentation at the Pagoda University in Blacklick this August and one of Claudia's concerns was to insure that the car had no hidden rust. She even had me employ a commonly used tool in Europe... Dry-ice blasting the undercarriage and the wheel wells in order to remove some Black under coating that had been sprayed over the 41 year old factory paint for protection. Although I had already been able to ascertain that the car was very rust free from my inspection, we did uncover a small rust hole in the lower edge of the rear wheel well that was repaired and the whole car was Waxoyl treated, so that Claudia and her husband could use their new car without worrying too much if they should ever be caught in a unannounced rain shower.
Claudia, from the beginning, was probably the most informed and in many ways helpful owner I have ever worked with. By the way, she even helped us obtain the factory drawing for the new run of original firewall padding that Alfred has been working on. I told her that we definitely could use her talent and enthusiasm in this club, whenever she can afford to contribute. Claudia. I hope the shipping company only removed your hub caps so they wouldn't get lost?...:-) They were actually color coded in a rare two-tone color combination, along with the metallic Blue hard top on the car. I would be happy to hear frequent updates of your experiences with this car which I grew quite fond of. I didn't even know until now why I had to hurry up so much to get the car shipped out before traveling to Blacklick. That sure was a very nice birthday present....
Regards, Tom Colitt
ClassicAutosLA
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Welcome to the Forum Claudia and Jon.
That is indeed a loverly looking car and an unusual colour combination. Tom showed us many photos of the interior of the sills etc during his talk and all at Blacklick this year know her intimately ;)
I am sure my Jaguar will come out of Toms workshop later this year in such good shape. ::) No pressure Tom. My birthday is 14 November.
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Hello forum
Jim from Seattle here. I had a 280sl for a few years, until a "friend" totaled it. No, no-one was hurt, although I did want to kill him. Anyway, a few years have gone by and I have to find another one, so I have started looking. I have restored a few cars over time so I may go that route- we will see. I found this forum to be able to do my research, learn all about the whole production run, and decide on which car I want this time. I am thinking another 280 manual- but I want to take my time and see what is out there. Looking forward to learning a lot and getting another great car. And this time no-one will drive it but me!
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Hi, My name is David Lewandos (rocketman1) from Corpus Christi, Texas
Just signed up as a full member this week.
GREAT club and web site.
Look forward to working with and seeing you and your cars.
I found my 1964, 230SL in my friends barn after 29 YEARS. Long story, I'll share that some other time.
It's a German market car, serial # 005288 with a factory ZF 5 Transmission, aluminum doors,trunk,hood etc.
Needs lots of work, but I got my Baby back.
I also still have a "gray market" 1982 500sl that I bought new back then, a 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 with a 428 cobra jet engine with a "shaker hood" and
I drive a 2002 S430 to work.
I love to work on these cars my self. Big stress relief from work!
Look forward to sharing info on the 230sl as the work is being done.
Best to alll
David
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Welcome syngen snythe and rocketman1 !
Syngen: Good luck on your search.
Rocketman1: Please tell your story and we always like to see pictures too.
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Hello Fellow listers,
I’ve just joined the site and have already found it an excellent resource. My thanks to all who have contributed.
I live in Northern Illinois just west of Chicago and own a “barn find” December ’67 production 250 SL. Exterior color: Dark Olive 291H. Interior: Cognac 140 MB Tex with matching soft top.
I am ashamed to admit it but the car was “found” in my own barn. I am the second owner having purchased it in August of 1970. When I bought it there was less than 5,000 miles on the ‘clock. The car was temporally stored twenty five years ago at 54,000 miles but regrettably, life got in the way and it hasn’t been touched since. Last week, when preparing to push the car into my heated shop, I was surprised to find all four tires still had about 15 lbs. of air in them!
When I stopped driving this car, I had been in the process of replacing the broken heater control sliders so in addition to the ill effects of indifferent storage, I must also finish that task and reassemble the dash. I’m certain that there will be quite a bit of work to put it all right again but now that I am retired and with the aid of this site, I should be able to devote some meaningful effort to resurrecting another Pagoda.
Alan
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...own a “barn find” December ’67 production 250 SL. Exterior color: Dark Olive 291H. Interior: Cognac 140 MB Tex with matching soft top.
Alan,
Now tell us it's a five speed and we will all be jealous. Welcome aboard/back- don't know which applies :)
Drew
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Hello Alan,
Welcome and glad to hear you are getting your 250 back on the road again. I had a similar story such as yours (stored away for 25 years) but have had my 280SL running again for over a year now and having a ball driving our old friend again. The car was still in great shape but needed some TLC and a few $$$ to get it back into good running condition. My intro is a couple of pages back http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=529.msg92844#msg92844
Good luck in your project and be sure to post a few pictures
John
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Thanks very much for the greeting gents.
No Drew you can relax, it's just a standard automatic but as I recall, quite a nice combination for a true GT car.
John, if you ever figure out what possessed you to put yours away for all that time, let me know. Try as I will I simply can't come up with a reasonable excuse. I'm afraid that I will have to pay for it with a great deal of time and money. I'll reserve my enthusiasm until I look further into the car's true condition.
BTW, I'll start out here by correcting myself. I took a brief survey of the car this afternoon and after checking the site this evening find that it was actually produced late in November of '67. Serial # 005110. It was sold here and titled as a '68. I have reason to suspect that it may have been special-ordered as your's was but that would be difficult to confirm and it has no special equipment to suggest this. I was surprised to see that only 8 250s were brought to the U.S. that year. Could this be one of them or is it a case of the dealer pushing the model year ahead?
Alan
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Great to be a member and looking forward to getting information on restoring my 69 280sl. I am four years from retirement and wanting to start now on making my car a true looker.. I am in the state of TN and enjoy the winding roads and rolling hills.
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Good morning! Long with the itch to own one; 'lurker' on this site for several months; finally a new proud owner and full member on the site as well. I live in southwest GA and have purchased a 1968 Euro 280 SL; red (567) with parchment interior and automtic. Tons of useful info on this site and I look forward to years of enjoyment.
Eddie
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Good Monday everyone!
Iv been browsing the site for a while now, and decided to finally became a member! I'm thinking about purchasing a SL very soon and love all the information I find on here.
-ikarak
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New old member here; Passarelli Restorations has moved my Classic Mercedes Restoration business to the Big island of Hawaii where I still provide sales, service and concours level restoration of pre 1980 Mercedes Benz classics. Free restoration and service advice; discount parts and accessories. See my new websites www.w194.com and www.halemerced.com Thanks Mark Passarelli 808 443 9100
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I am new to this Forum and chose to join as I am now starting to search for a 280 SL. I have only owned new Mercedes before including my current wagon. My dear wife says it is time for a classic summer convertible, and I can't disagree with my wife, now, can I?! As someone born in the 1950's, I have such strong and happy memories of the 1960's that I hope the car will embody for me. I'm looking forward to this Forum's insight and advice, and to someday adding an "SL" to my signature line.
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Hello to everyone on the forum .... I live in Glasgow Scotland, not the best climate for running an old SL, I've had my 1964 230sl since 1986, and it had lots of use, between the months of March until mid October each year it would be my daily transport, it was always put in storage over the colder months. It's had the usual share of problems... hot starting issues, cutting out at high speed, diff problems, but overall it's been a trusty reliable car..... I remember doing an overtake on the road to Fort William and reaching to downshift, and the entire gearstick came away in my hand, mind you it had been getting a bit sloppy... Anyway, in 1999 I was shocked to discover the extent of corrosion that had infested the car, hidden away by rubber underseal, when I began to explore the problem I realised that major chassis and inner body work would be required, I decided to undertake it myself. In 1999 prices for body panels from Merc were relatively cheap, I was payiing £80 for a rear wing , £90 for a front inner wing £30 for a front crossmember....... it's now almost 2012, 13 years have passed and I am finally ready to put the car back on the road, a hugely long and arduous learning experience but finally well worth the effort..... My main problem was aquiring space to do the work, and had to move the car several times, and on occasions put it in storage until I had secured yet another workshop space, I almost sold it at a project on a couple of occasions but I would have regretted it. I have been out of touch with prices and couldn't believe the current values, I payed £3200 for my car when nobody wanted them, now a full set of factory chromes costs double that !!!! shocking .... I have shipped the car to Heaneys in Ireland to have the mechanicals and fuel system recommisioned and the engine/box checked and tuned and then comes springtime and the open road .... Regards to all you Pagoda lovers ... Jim Lambert
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Welcome, a great story any pictures taken along the way?
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Welcome there Jim - great story and we're anxiously awaiting photos and a full account of your getting your car back into commission ... this would be a great article for Pagoda World?
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Thanks for the welcome ... If I can get into my old hard drives (which I kept) then I can post some pics of the restoration , which was long and painful on the knuckles ... I'll start taking some pics as I'm well into the restoration of the hardtop which involves a lot of converting crosshead screws to slotted screws with a dremel ( they come out easy with this method) ... the hardtop is top grade after nearly 50 years in Scotland, no rust on the rear posts..... a testiment to keeping it stored in the garage and never using it ..... i need a new headliner and I think I'll just get that from merc .... I'm worried that repro ones might not be up to scratch, any advice welcomed ?? It took me over a year to get the car stripped ready for cutting out panels, I also goosed about thirty spot weld drills..... I had never restored a car but had restored several 1930s and 40s Indian motorcycles so convinced myself that it would be easy ....... wrong ....... I still have issues with door gaps being to big but I think that is fixable even at this stage ...
The work I've done is less than concours but i dont intend to ever sell the car and will drive it with some gusto ... as I always did ..... will post some pics of the hardtop progress and will go hunting the old hard drives for shots of the horrors of flaying open a Pagoda ....... Jim
PS .... I travelled over to Heaneys in Ulster last week to go over the recommisioning issues and was very impressed with the set up that Tom Heaney has .... he clearly knows these cars and I left felling very reassured ... he hasn't said anything bad about my welding or the paint job which for me is as good as a slap on the back .........
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Hello, my name is Erik and live in Arizona. I have a 64' 230sl that belonged to my father. He purchased it in the mid 90's, drove it for a lot of years, but unfortunetly took it to a mechanic that didn't know what he was doing and made problems worse. He moved it around for several years trying to get issues resolved, I "rescued" it a few years ago from where it had been sitting. I have been contemplating the options from full resto, weekend driver, parting ways, etc. I have gained alot of knowledge from this site, and just thought I would finally introduce myself and the car. The car was imported in the early 80's, and I have a lot of records from my father, the previous US owner, plus a stack of receipts in German. In Germany is when the engine must have been replaced, with a later model 280SE motor (68' ish from the engine numbers). The car starts and runs, but needs a lot of TLC from the neglect of sitting for such a long time.
http://s339.photobucket.com/albums/n447/coollmnade/230%20SL/
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Hello! I'm new in this forum. I'm located in France (Europe) and I have a 280 SL Auto.
Pictures:
https://picasaweb.google.com/m/viewer?dc=gorganic&source=mobileproducts#photo/gerard.heilly/5659168500937956369/5659168521392066242
The car was sale in 1971 at the USA, but I don't no in which state.
Best regards,
Gérard
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Welcome Erik and Gerard - just let us know if you need any help.
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Thanks very much for the greeting gents.
No Drew you can relax, it's just a standard automatic but as I recall, quite a nice combination for a true GT car.
John, if you ever figure out what possessed you to put yours away for all that time, let me know. Try as I will I simply can't come up with a reasonable excuse. I'm afraid that I will have to pay for it with a great deal of time and money. I'll reserve my enthusiasm until I look further into the car's true condition.
BTW, I'll start out here by correcting myself. I took a brief survey of the car this afternoon and after checking the site this evening find that it was actually produced late in November of '67. Serial # 005110. It was sold here and titled as a '68. I have reason to suspect that it may have been special-ordered as your's was but that would be difficult to confirm and it has no special equipment to suggest this. I was surprised to see that only 8 250s were brought to the U.S. that year. Could this be one of them or is it a case of the dealer pushing the model year ahead?
Alan
Alan,
A belated welcome! Reading through your post it seems that your car was produced in November 1967 as a 1968 model year car as you mention. I would guess that the timing was such that the factory was gearing down production of 250SL's at that very time to make way for the 280SL's as opposed to the dealer having anything to do with it. Keep in mind that the "model year" in the US typically starts in the fall and it seems that MB adopted that practice with their US-bound cars in 1966. As such, my car (for instance) is a model year 1967 built in November 1966. I BELIEVE that ALL of these cars were "special order" as I have heard that MB dealers didn't sell SL's cars from stock at that time.
Best of luck!
Kevin
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Hello there everyone - thanks for hosting such a mine of information. Really first class. I bought my 230SL in 2006 through Walter Nieuwkoop up in Morpeth. I was on the look out for one for ages - so, after realising that I would have to take the plunge eventually I decided that the next thing with a concave roof, 4 wheels and a steering wheel that I saw - I was going to buy. I had a look at Walters site www.classicmercedesbenz.co.uk/ (http://www.classicmercedesbenz.co.uk/) and noticed he had just listed one on behalf of a friend of his in the MB club. Knowing nothing about the car I bought it and was lucky - it worked - mostly. A nice fella down in Warlingham (who had an embarrassing number of 300SLs lying around) reckoned it was decent value and put it through the MOT for me. I was thrilled. Driving around London for a couple of years was a ball. Anyway I'm in Armagh now and keen to swap notes with any Irish victims out there. Heaneys outside Maghera do a good job. As has been just mentioned - Tom is an old hand with these cars. He only had to do the "laying on of hands" and one of my cylinders sprang back to life). Anyway dead chuffed with it - overhauled the engine, refurbished gearbox, new pistons, pertonix ignition and now I have a real driver. Red with black top.
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HI,
What a great site. I just bought and am waiting on delivery of a 1970 280SL. It's Olive Green with tan seats. I saw it and it was love at first sight. It's automatic and appears to be in great shape cosmetically and mechanically. Will send pics when it arrives.
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Hello enthusiasts! I am happy to join the site even though I don't own a Pagoda. I just got a 280sel and this site has the best and most complete information on the MFI fuel system. By far. I've spend a few days learning about the MFI and getting ready to sort through the car.
I got completely hooked on classic MBs after buying the '81 300TD a few years ago. I bought a fintail a year ago and have it pretty much up to snuff, so I am ready to move on to a new chassis. The car is very good mechanically but has some rust repairs, some new bubbling, and a mediocre overspray. Interior is good with the typical dash crack and delaminating window trim and crazed dash wood.
Looking forward to learning more from all of you. I reckon I'll eventually evolve to owning a Pagoda. Isn't that the natural order of things? ;D
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Hi Everyone
I am new to this forum, but have always had a keen interest in Mercedes since my first ride in a Gull Wing in 1956. I am seventy two now and still have that interest especially the w113 grroup. I have a chance to buy a garage find, a 1971 280. It is all origional down to the radio. This vehicle has probably not been run in fifteen years. Any thoughts on this??
Harle
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Hi Harle,
welcome! I think this forum is terrific and I'm sure you'll find it supportive. Regarding a barn find, I have no experience, but my feeling is that *someone* has to wake the sleeping beauty. So ask yourself: if not yourself,
who do you trust to do it? It would be too terrible to contemplate the car staying in the barn until eventually it can't be saved at all.
Exactly what you do with it lies somewhere inside a tetrahedron whose four corners are money, time, talent and interest. Talent includes mechanical skills but also your interpersonal skills with contacts in the various communities. Interest includes what you want to do with the car, both now and eventually, as well as what you want the car to look like. (Sorry about the tetrahedron, I'm a math teacher :D)
One small point: there's a database in the Technical Manual where the community would like to track every 113, if possible. When you find out the VIN of the barn find, please enter it in the database.
We would all love to see pictures at every stage, so I hope you have a camera. Good luck!
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hello, I am Tom Walgamuth. I have been a mercedes addict now for about 40 years. There was a period in there when I did not own any but I came back. I have owned over 30 benzes mostly older diesels.
I am trying to buy a pagoda from a friend of mine that has owned his for a long time. He may be the original owner. It is supposed to be rust free and wearing its original paint but I have not had the chance to look at it yet and he appears to be in no hurry. He says it is buried in his garage and he is embarressed to let me look at it until he uncovers it.
Just in case you might be thinking I am being led on I have seen the car but it has been at least 20 years I suppose.
I am hoping it might be an all or mostly mechanical restoration because I am comfortable with mechanical things and would not want to get into a rusty car at any price.
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Good-day,
My name is Jack Jones and I am an SLaholic. I joined about 3 weeks ago even though I have had a 1970 280SL for about 24 years. The car is in the middle of a ground up restoration and should be finished later this year. I also have a 107 chassis 280SL 5 speed to drive while I finish the 113.
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Hi Jack, welcome. Any pictures of your restoration?
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I will load some pictures soon. I'm hurt that you only asked for restoration pics and not my 107 280SL ;D
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Hello to all,
I've been a MB enthusiast all of my life and have owned one in the past. As I get closer to retirement I have my sights set on an Pagoda as I find the design and style absolutely timeless. Mike Salemi encouraged me to make an intro here after I sent him an email for some recommendations to some buyers guide books. If any of you Pagoda owners are from the Dallas, Texas area please shoot me an email as I would like to buy you a cup of coffee and pick your opinions and guidance on owning a Pagoda.
Jimmy
jvaughan924@yahoo.com
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Hello All,
I am both a new member of the Pagoda SL Group and proud new owner of a '67 250SL. I purchased "Adelaide" (as I have come to call her) in late 2011 and could not be happier that I did so! As a 24-year-old, I field many questions about why I so badly wanted a classic SL: I have always been enamored with its design (inside and out), timelessness, and pure class. I had looked for a Pagoda since college, and finally came upon the one I have after much searching.
The car was fully restored in 1988; it is a European model through-and-through, but has spent about 99% of its life in the States. It continues to reside in Northern NJ, just outside of Manhattan, as it has since the early 1970s. I was (very) fortunate to have acquired the car from an older gentleman looking for it to go to a good, new home (which it did :) ). Luckily, he kept impeccable records - right down to the mileage/cost of every fueling; I plan to continue this extensive documentation. I have attached a side shot of it (more to follow if there are any requests!). White exterior, black interior (save the white steering wheel and shift-knob); 4-spd; just over 99,000km as of a few weeks ago.
Feel free to shot me any questions/comments!
Happy motoring,
Dan
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Hello Dan, welcome to our forum and you will not regret your recent acquisition. I also was 24 when I bought my 280SL (for same reasons as yourself) and it still with us 43 years later. Your 250 looks like a beauty and yes, please post a few more photos.
John
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Welcome Dan! Congratulations on your purchase, sounds like you went about it the right way.
By posting a picture, you invite the meticulists here to comment. I for one can see the brightwork around the windshield could be replaced, and your PO did not know how to prevent the soft top corners from curling up. The latter is an easy fix, and for the former, at least the install procedure was covered here last weekend in a post dealing with windshield installation.
Anyway, best of luck as you discover the car and the information maintained by this group of enthusiasts. You've come to the right place!
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I have not been able to get my Pagoda seller off dead center. I have an idea about getting him motivated. Does anybody have some pictures of a red pagoda roof with boxes and bugs and dust all over it?
Tom Walgamuth
twalgamuth@comcast.net
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Hi everyone,
My name is Kwasi, just graduated from college and since my childhood, I've been crazy about SL's.
From my grandfather's 230SL manual to the 300 gullwing. I joined the group because I want to learn as much as possible about Pagoda's.
I'm planning on buying one this summer/fall
Amazing forum guys!
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Welcome to this Forum Kwasi.
Greetings: Ger.
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Hi,
I'm Paul, a Welsh Dutchman from Cardiff & a retired Petrochemical Engineer.
After 10 years with my 1935 Alvis Firebird Tourer, I have now bought a 1967 white Automatic 250 SL , having lusted after the "Pagoda" since they were new.
I joined the Pagoda SL Group whilst researching prior to purchase, and have been impressed with the breadth of membership.
I am a regular contributer to the Kia Sorento UK forum, and hope to become active on this forum - after putting a few more miles on the clock.
Keep Well
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Welcome aboard Paul,
Looks like a nice sorted early 250SL.
Garry
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Hello, just joined after purchasing my 70 280sl last week. I live in Honolulu and also own a w111 1970 cabriolet. I have been peeking at this site since I purchased the 280se three years ago but now that I also own a SL, felt inclined to join. What a great site and tremendous resource. Had something like this existed for my 280se, it would have saved lots of time -although I did check here whenever I had an engine/drivetrain question.
Will post pics once I get away from the iPad.
Aloha.
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Welcome Pauhana.
Your colors caught my eye. ;)
Is the anthracite metalic (172) or non-metalic (173).
We're looking forward to seeing the pictures.
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Here are some pics of my 280se and My new 280SL
btw, someone asked me if the 280se it was color 172 or 173. It is 172, metallic. Original colors.
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Here are some pics of my 280se and My new 280SL
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Welcome Pauhana, your 113 looks nice, but your 111, breathtaking.
Neil
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Some beautiful cars indeed.
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Love that interior on the 280SE. DROOL DROOL
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Hello Group,
I joined a couple of months ago to learn more about these cars while searching for one. Just purchased a 1968 250SL Manual 4 speed (later 250) from the original owner since new in 1968. The car was a sunday driver for them and in very original condition ... I plan on keeping it as original as possible. It was repainted once and soft top was replaced once. Servicing was done at same dealership where they purchased it for the last 44 years. The car is white with blue interior ... not sure which white or which blue until I get into the identification of numbers etc.
I am working and living in France and the car will be in Southern California at my permanent home and so I will not be there to meet it for a few more weeks and will post some photos at that time. My wife, who really has loved these cars for 20 years, will be enjoying it. Trying to find a way to tell her that's it OUR car and not hers ... wish me luck.
The only immediate work I want to do on the car is to replace the Seat Pads, the covers are original and in quite excellent shape. The pads are not falling apart, but I do love the full firm look and feel of restored seats. Have read quite a bit about Seat Pads on this forum ... now to find the right ones.
This site has great information and I appreciate it very much ... will keep a look out for any So Cal gathering. I did see that a few of you took your 113's on a Palos Verdes run a year ago ... right in my neighborhood ... would like to join you if you do it again (all of your cars looked perfect, a bit intimidating).
Best,
OZ
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Hello OZ,
Great to hear a Pagoda is crossing the Atlantic this way instead of the other way around :) and Palos Verdes is a great spot for your SL and from the looks of your car's photo, she is a beauty. I had many a pleasant drive there in my SL when we were both youngsters many years ago.
John
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Greetings from the Springfield area of Western Massachusetts, U.S.A.
Since my childhood I have liked Pagodas and am interested in buying a driver (not a show car) sometime in the next year. For sentimental reasons I would really like a right-hand-drive car, but I would gladly have a left-hand-drive car if I can't find a RHD one. I look forward to learning more about these cars from this group and welcome any contact with members in New England.
Best wishes,
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Dear DSG,
I also joined prior to purchase ... and it helped to understand the details of this car. I would think that if you found this site, you have also found moteringinvestments as he does list all the original trademarks to help identify originality ... if that's important to you. My goal was basically find an unmolested car that's been maintained ... not an easy task, but found one. best of luck finding a RHD ... the brits usually snap them up and rightfully so.
Oz
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Hi DSG,
Welcome and good luck finding and actually being successful in buying a RHD car in US.
I tried for four years, saw three cars come up in that time, each one went within 12 hours of being posted on any forum, advertising site or car yard. I tried to instantly buy sight unseen on each of them with in 12 hours,(the time difference was against me) and was still too slow. Two went to Malaysia and the other I don't know but to actually be successful, you really need to be in the same town and instantly go and look or agree to buy sight unseen with all the dangers that that brings, so be prepared for a full resto.
Garry
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Thank you for your welcoming comments, Oz and Garry. Garry, my family live in Canberra (I have just returned to the U. S. from there), and I eventually want to ship my car to Australia. I'm looking forward to learning more about these beautiful cars and to owning one eventually. Best, Dennis
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Dennis,
Keep your eye out for them, they come up occasionally. I lived in Philly for three years in the 90's and did not see one come up but over the past few years there have been some in what appeared to be average condition either in NY or CA.
They go almost instantly and you will be lucky to get to view it in time or even just ring and agree to buy before someone will guzump you as happened to me twice. You may be even better buying one in UK where you will have time to get someone like Colin Fern, (Stick and Rudder Man on the forum) to look at it then ship it to US, have someone like Joe Alexander in OH or Tom Colitt in CA do work on it and then bring it home. There is a wealth of experience between those three that is Pagoda specific that is sadly lacking in OZ and it is way more costly here not only in labour costs +25%, but also parts and shipping + 30%. I just did an exercise with an XKE out of the USA including conversion with Tom. I should have stuck to the Pagoda.
Cheers
Garry
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I am a new member from NE Ohio. Last spring my wife and I purchased a 1968 280SL convertible coupe (W113 I think). We are just starting to sort it out and I will undoubtedly have some quesitons on some of the details, as have not owned an older MB, other than my wife's E420 sedan in 1997, which never needed a thing. This car was purchased at an antique car auction in Akron, Ohio last spring and after winning the bid, the previous owner (since 1978) introduced herself and brought us a large folder showing every single receipt during the 34 years of her ownership. Car is very nice, but needs has a few minor issues. This car is a German version and was purchased new in Germany by the first owner and then sold in Germany to the second owner in 1978, and shipped to the U.S. as a present for his wife, who drove the car until early this year. The car has always been well-maintained and is fun to drive.
Fritz68
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Welcome aboard Fritz68.
Your car looks like a very well kept example and having all those records from previous owners is a real bonus. Be careful of rust under the after market chrome wheel arch covers.
Enjoy the ride
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looks nice Fritz, especially the panel gaps. First thing on your shopping list is a pair of genuine wiper blades instead of those black plastic ones!
Stick.
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Looks beautiful to me, special it's a Euro version, I like them most.
Greetings: Ger.
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Hi I posted recently and asked if anybody had pictures of a barn find pagoda with all kinds of sfuff sitting on it. A kind and generous member sent me a lovely picture which I plan to show to my prospective pagoda seller to help pry his long dormant car out of his ambivilant hands. I cannot find the correspondence now and would like to ask same member to send me a picture showing the car all cleaned up and so forth.
Thanks for the great help so far!
Tom Walgamuth
twalgamuth@comcast.net
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Fritz,
the car looks like a dream come true. Beware of the fact that 280SL Pagoda is highly addictive and may create some trouble if you still believe this is exclusively your wife's car ;D
Enjoy.
By the way, you may want to go through a thorough check before using it for good. This site in not only full of good advices, but lists some of the best repair shops which can bring the jewel to the original shine in and out out seems perfect, but what about the "In" part???)
Stan
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hi there,
just joined, my Pagoda is still :( undergoing restoration. Hope it will be finished before I need one... ;D
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Hi Sonia,
Welcome to the Group. There are many here, including myself that are in the process of restoration, but there is plenty of support and help here for the asking. Some photos of where you are at would be nice.
Garry
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Hi Garry,
did you mean photos of the car restoration of Sonia's?
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Yes any photos are always good even if they are of cars in parts. Like this is where my car was some weeks ago, Its in even more bits now to paint the engine bay.
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Garry,
I fully agree with you. I just thought for a moment that you wanted Sonia to post pics of her own restoration ;D. My Bad
Stan
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Stan
My body needs a restoration.
See the effect of oil on engine mounts on my photo. The oil had been leaking out the breather for some time and getting on the mount. The left side has really taken in the oil and swollen. And now I can put in one of the W113 Group firewall pads as well when it comes back from the painters ;D ;D
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Hello , just joined the group today.
My wife of 16 years has a 1967 230 SL automatic that she has had since 1974, signal red w/ black interior. Very nice driver quality car that we have been restoring a little at a time since we have been married. Just found the data card hidden away in some old papers and are using the teck manual to dicipher the information,( that's how I know the color is signal red). Looking forward to exchanging info with other members.
Tony
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Welcome here Tony, I hope you can place some pictures of your car.
Greetings: Ger.
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Hi just became the owner of 11304410260309 and will be taking delivery on Friday . It's a privilege to have access to this knowledge pool . If anyone has any history of this vehicle please contact me to fill in all the blanks of where and who owned this lovely 280SL .
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Welcome and feel free to share with us details of the car. Who knows…. if it is originated from the USA, you may get title tracking history as I just did at the Title Registry office in Atlanta Georgia. While the registry only showed three previous owners (I skip dealers that intermediated in the sale process), my internet research gave amazing results as to who these persons actually were. In Europe that may be more difficult.
Stan
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have just bought a 1964 230. not seen it yet. owned by someone i know for umpteen years and a non runner at the moment. will pick it up in a month or so. good bodywork just not been started in 8 years.
cant wait to get it back here to play with it.
hello to everyone
(http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u257/g7amv/Car001.jpg)
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wow. The car doesn't look in need of major works, but I know that our jewels always have some "hidden treasuries" :).
Registration plates also look as there were there from the start.
Good luck
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Hi just became the owner of 11304410260309 and will be taking delivery on Friday . It's a privilege to have access to this knowledge pool . If anyone has any history of this vehicle please contact me to fill in all the blanks of where and who owned this lovely 280SL .
Hello Jorge and welcome to the Forum,
Your VIN appears to be in error for a '68 model. The last 6 digits should be in "003XXX" or less range.
John
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Russell - car looks sharp, I hope you get it running easily
Neil
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Hello Pagoda Group,
My name is Jose Luis Altuve and I just joined last week to this amazing group.
I owned a 280SL 1971 ( ...long time ago in 1976 .....I sold it when I left my country) ......years passed fast ....but the love for the Mercedes pagodas continues.
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Now that I live in Austin, TX working for a large IT Corporation, I would like to be in touch with someone who locally owns a Pagoda to feel again the emotion.
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Also I will like to be informed if some Pagoda event is coming in the near future to the Austin area.
Best regards to all members.
Jose Luis
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I've been a member of the Group on and off for many years as I searched for my perfect Pagoda. I'm elated to say that my dream came true this weekend when I bought my first Pagoda after my infatuation started with them 25 years ago (wish I had bought then). After many attempts fell through for various reasons I stumbled upon a beauty recently. When I saw her, she winked at me with those little eyelashes (notches) on the headlights (pretty hard to find) and, I knew it was love. Meticulously cared for in the south all her life, she shines like crazy. Originally bought in from a dealer in Alabama in 1970, moved to Atlanta and never left the South. Not a bit of rust to be found. I dont think the last owner of 15 years ever put the top up - and as you know that is never a good idea. After much trepidation I finally got the soft top up to find it in almost perfect condition, albeit a bit dusty. Original carpet, welds and firewall and all that good stuff. It drives fantastic at 80MPH (could not resist). I'm so happy to be a member of the Pagoda Group and have enjoyed reading the postings over the years. Now I can finally contribute back. I looking forward to meeting some of you at the 50th next year in VA. Here are a couple of pics I snapped from when I first saw it in the shop. The lesson learned - Wait for the right one. I always heard ..." buy the best car you can afford, or you will spend way more on fixing problems".
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Welcome Greg, and congratulations on your purchase, it looks like a really nice 280SL and a great color.
Garry
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Very nice car Greg and welcome,
The lesson learned - Wait for the right one. I always heard ..." buy the best car you can afford, or you will spend way more on fixing problems".
I have to disagree, if we all bought the perfect car this forum would not exist wouldn't you say?. (coming from someone who did not wait and could not afford the perfect one) :D
Happy Driving,
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Shaun
interesting remark, I must say…. so in conclusion we are here a a bunch of Pagoda victims fighting to get them back to a correct, if not perfect stage ;D
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This is whats great about this forum. We get to connect with people all around the world that share a common infatuation with a piece of rolling art. And to w113dude, to to be clear, this car is not perfect. I've spent plenty of time drooling over those Brian has at motoringinvestments. But it was the perfect one for me, that I could afford at this time in my life. I'm still pinching myself that I actually have one. I first have to fix that gas smell in the trunk or my wife will not ride with me, and that could make for a pretty lonely Pagoda experience. (I'm not inferring that I make her ride in the trunk..... but sometimes....hmmm) ;)
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I first have to fix that gas smell in the trunk or my wife will not ride with me, and that could make for a pretty lonely Pagoda experience.
If I were you I'd think twice before fixing that smell in the trunk. remember you are never lonely when driving a pagoda ;)
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Welcome Greg, Beautiful car and I hope you will have many years of driving enjoyment with it. I have had mine for 44 years now and it is still a thrill to get behind the wheel and go for a spin. Congratulations.
John
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Great car!
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What a magnificent car you have now Greg. Congratulations.
Greetings: Ger.
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Just started a rebuild of my 1968 280sl 4spd . I just bought the car in November and had the drive train rebuilt . The rebuilt engine was turned on today and purred beautifully . Car should be ready before Christmas and will be my best X-mas present so far . All your input has been very helpful , thanks to all Jorge .
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Jorge,
Looks like a nice car. Best of luck. Keep posting pics.
Kevin
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Congrats. Very nice to hear you got it purring ... major accomplishment. A Xmas to remember ... all the other kids on your block will be quite jealous.
Enjoy.
Oz
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Good day to you all and a very Merry Christmas.
My name is Jeff Edwards and I am a new member based in Perth, Western Australia.
I recently purchased a lovely red 250SL, to replace my 1984 Porsche Club-sports Cabriolet, which has gone to a collector in Brisbane.
The 250SL will keep my 1969 Aston Matin DBS Vantage company.
My daily drive is a Mercedes 230SLK.
I have previously rebuilt a W107 series 450SL, so I am hoping the 250SL will seem reasonably familiar as a result.
I hope to make a useful contribution to the group.
best wishes
Jeff
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Hello from Abu Dhabi. I am a Brit living in the UAE and love cars, old and new. I purchased this california car in mid 2012 and had it shipped over. Its in great condition with lots of evidence of being well looked after. It does need the gearbox shift rebushing. I have also had the AC compressor changed to the rotary type and it seems to be working well. She is 670 colour code. The hardtop should be the same colour but has been resprayed to a nice contrasting brown which i do like. The interior has been retrimmed in congac (GAHH supplied accoding to the invoices).
I notice the engine ticks loudly under acceleration- it can be heard more inside the car and sounds like a sewing machine. Other than that it drives well. The underside is very original with the rootbeer coating intact. Its in remarkable condition. She has been rechromed and repainted - both to an exceptional standard.
Overall I am pleased with the purchase
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Nice looking car, European headlights and bumper overiders, unusual combination?
Enjoy.
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Hello from Abu Dhabi. I am a Brit living in the UAE and love cars, old and new. I purchased this california car in mid 2012 and had it shipped over. Its in great condition with lots of evidence of being well looked after. It does need the gearbox shift rebushing. I have also had the AC compressor changed to the rotary type and it seems to be working well. She is 670 colour code. The hardtop should be the same colour but has been resprayed to a nice contrasting brown which i do like. The interior has been retrimmed in congac (GAHH supplied accoding to the invoices).
I notice the engine ticks loudly under acceleration- it can be heard more inside the car and sounds like a sewing machine. Other than that it drives well. The underside is very original with the rootbeer coating intact. Its in remarkable condition. She has been rechromed and repainted - both to an exceptional standard.
Overall I am pleased with the purchase
Hi Kamal,
Very nice color car, it looks to be a US export with Euro headlights, is it 717 white color code?
Since the car was in the shop recently I would assume valves and the timing has been checked.The ticking that you hear could be something as simple as the speedometer cable, when they get too dry and old they make that kind of sawing machine noise. disconnect the cable from behind the speedometer and take it for a test ride.
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Hi
It's 670 color code which is gorgeous. It's a US spec. The PO fitted euro headlights. I will at some stage remove the side markers and overrides. The only issue is that it seems to nice to paint and the bumpers are in exceptional condition so don't warrant replacement.
I will have the valve clearances checked as I am convinced that this is the noise as its related to engine speed.
Thanks
Kamal
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Kamal
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warm welcome.
I also have a US style 1971 280SL and wasn't excited too much about side markers anne overriders as well as US headlamps. As the car is undergoing renovation, I took this opportunity to install Euro headlamps and remove side markers. The first item is clearly very easy (although excessively expensive). The second requires welding and repainting, but this want fine. For the moment I do not touch overriders. While removing it poses no problem, there are holes that have to be filled. And re-chroming the bumpers may not give the same quality as the original one. So maybe I will try the idea that - if I remember well - Cees was promoting: removing overriders and filing the holes with plastic plumbing caps... :)
I looked around but did not see appropriate caps…. so it is just a plan so far
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I have been getting some help regarding my wife's 1968 280SL on this forum and just sent in my year's membership, so I guess I am now an official member. I am the retired founder of Tip Tools (now TP Tools) in Canfield, Ohio (our ad is always on the rear page of Hemmings Motor News above the index). We sell tools and equipment for restoration of antique cars and have been doing so since the early 1970s. I am retired now, but still help my son with the business.
In addition to helping out at work, my son and I have a small car museum in Canfield (over 35 cars - 2 Mercedes - my wife's 280SL and my 1962 220SEb 2 dr Hard Top. See www.tipcars.us for some of the pictures. Pictures of our two Mercedes are on the forum under the current topic on body and paint, along with a lot of history on the SL. The forum topic deals with striping and a new paint job. Since we have so many makes and models of cars, we participate in many other forums, but the Pagoda SL Group is the best of all - a very friendly group and all are very helpful. Thanks to all for so much assisstance and advice.
Fred (Fritz68)
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Welcome aboard Fred,
I had a look at your site some time ago when you first came on and you look like you have a wonderful shed of vehicles collected there.
Thanks for joining as a Full Member. Whilst a major part of our site can be viewed free, to get the Pagoda Notes and Pagoda World magazines and to access some areas of the site such as wiring diagrams and linkage adjustment videos, we seek a small fee that in turn covers the cost of running the site. All Board positions are voluntary and are manned by a varied crew from around the world
We need some paying members otherwise the site would not run so to others, if you are posting here and consider you are getting good value from the site, then i encourage you to join to help defray the cost of running it.
Garry
Membership Secretary
Other than Americas.
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Thank you Garry - glad to be here and hope to participate and help others as they have helped me.
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How amazingly cool to have your own car museum. You must have worked extremely hard to get to achieve this. The 280sl looks great!
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Fritz,
Welcome ... I echo that it's pretty impressive having a car museum. I checked out the site under your paint discussions.
One thing (among many) I have learned from this site is that when folks comment on wrong seats, or wrong trim etc, they are not doing it criticize, even though that's how it sounds, but are really doing it to advise on originality or to open up the discussion on differences.
Sounds like you've done a tremendous amount of work on the Pagoda in a very short time ... well done.
Best,
Oz
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Welcome Fred,
From the serial number, it looks like you have one of the earliest 280SLs Produced. We have a lot of other W113 owners here in Ohio, so you are in a good network.
Yes I have seen the TP tool adds for years.
Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio
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Hello.
I don't actually have a W113, but I'm a fan.
I'm afraid the only M-B driving experience I have is with W204 C300s.
I hope to get myself a W113 in the future, perhaps even as a daily driver.
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SGJ91
most welcome…
I think that most of us share the same idea of being addicted to Pagoda style :) Ownership is optional, yet advisable ;D. I would even say that not owning a Pagoda you miss a lot of simple pleasures, but you also are immune from lots of troubles, deceptions that end up in huge expenses. On that balance pleasure exceeds troubles…. of course :D
So, maybe you can launch a new trend: those who are funs, but not owners, should start a "Adopt a Pagoda" movement…. What do you think? :)
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As the Membership Secretary for "other than the Americas", I have been sending out welcome letters and window stickers to lots of new members,
Here are the recent ones that have joined as Full members and giving us some financial support in return, of course for our support and encouragement.
Jean Vannson, France; Ary Kraaijeveld, Netherlands; Joe Scicluna, Australia; Leif Wallquist, Sweden; Jeffrey Edwards Australia; Jeffrey Barden, UK; Erik Reurekas, Netherlands; Matthew Smith, UK; David Shaw, UK; Hugh Wilson, UK; Steve Wilson, Ireland; Anwar Alsayer Kuwait; Kamal Raz, United Arab Emirates; Kamal Raz, United Arab Emirates; Pradeep Gupta, India; Frans Douma, South Africa; Eli Gidor, Israel; and Ali Abbas, Bahrain.
Welcome to all the International, Non Americas, new Full Members. I hope I got all the names right and there. Look forward to seeing postings on the Forum, especially photos from all the different locations and landmarks as backgrounds to Pagoda Photos.
Garry
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SGJ91
most welcome…
I think that most of us share the same idea of being addicted to Pagoda style :) Ownership is optional, yet advisable ;D. I would even say that not owning a Pagoda you miss a lot of simple pleasures, but you also are immune from lots of troubles, deceptions that end up in huge expenses. On that balance pleasure exceeds troubles…. of course :D
So, maybe you can launch a new trend: those who are funs, but not owners, should start a "Adopt a Pagoda" movement…. What do you think? :)
I'd love to adopt one. ;)
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Hello, my name is Simon, I live in Geneva Switzerland, and I am attached to my 280SL 1968 with 5 speed manual zf box.I have owned the car since 1996 having searched for 4 years for the right car. I still think I was right!
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Hi,
I am rejoining the group and I would like the new member packet. I never got one when I joined the first time. Thanks.
Bill
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Hi Bill,
Welcome back. I saw your membership application and payment. Mark (Iconic) who is in the USA is doing the Americas Membership and will have also seen your application and will send out the items to you.
Garry
Non Americas Membership
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Bill Sgro,
I'll get one out to you the next time I process new member packets.
I'm planning on 2 weeks from now.
Mark
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Hello, my name is Simon, I live in Geneva Switzerland, and I am attached to my 280SL 1968 with 5 speed manual zf box.I have owned the car since 1996 having searched for 4 years for the right car. I still think I was right!
Hi Simon and Welcome
Rest assured that in this forum there will be nobody telling you that you were wrong :D
And I am certain that - with 17 years of ownership - you have proven that your attachment to the car is a great and rewarding experience, except for the likelihood of being a financial drain ;)
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Hi Everyone,
My name is Lee, and I live in New Orleans, perhaps the worst city in the US for heat, humidity, rain and rust. Nevertheless, I am a new member and proud new owner of a 1970 manual 280 sl. When I was in architecture school in the late 70's, the coolest girl in the class ahead of me had a red pagoda that was the exact color of her lipstick. I loved the lines (of the car! LOL), and vowed that someday I would have a pagoda. I didn't know enough to note if it was a 230, 250 or 280 - as I said, it was all about the design. Fast forward 35 years, and after a six month search I found the car for me. This website was a big help and I know will continue to be. The car needs a good bit of work, but is a one owner CA car with almost no rust. One good thing about the car is that it that the engine hasn't been altered. One bad thing about the car is that the engine hasn't been maintained!! It's with a mechanic in Houston while I convert my carport into a garage with a/c and dehumidification. If anyone has tips on best systems, etc., I would appreciate any advice you can share. I'm happy to be in your group and look forward to getting to know many of you and hopefully your pagodas as well.
Lee
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Welcome to the Group. Post a pix of the car, we all like to look.
Nice to see you have joined as Full Member and have full access rights and will receive the Pagoda Notes and Pagoda World. Just a plug for full membership.
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Hint well noted,paypal just got a new order.
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Good evening ladies and gents,
I'm new to this forum and stumbled upon it during my long search for a Pagoda (found a lot of useful help in the technical manual btw.. :) Probably have to many addictions when it comes to cars to be considered a total benzoholic, there are simply too many interesting marques out there with their own special characteristics. But, at least to me, the virus of MB:s seem to be something that sneaks upon one while experiencing both the mechanical and visual genius and integrity, rather than getting one gobsmacked into some short term fling that have been the case with other brands. It feels like beauty that grows with time. So time will tell!
I've recently acquired a 1965 230SL with some interesting history - first owner was Ursula Wirth, MB works co-driver for Ewy Rosqvist-von Korff during the Gran Premio Argentina and later also co-drove Pat Moss (Should this be a contribution for famous pagoda owners?).
Looking forward to getting some summer love during our relative short hot season and i'll get back to you with some pics later.
Cheers,
Pär Pettersson
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Hello all!
Recently was given the family 1967 230sl for safe keeping. It has been in my family for almost 40 years, and was my mom's 25th anniversary gift from my dad. I am 45, have been married for 20 years, and even took my wife to our high school prom in this very car.
My dad is not known for his automotive care, but it is mechanically sound, has some rust, and I'm told it smokes some.
I plan to preserve it for future generations and hope to see my kids drive it to the prom.
I thank all in advance for your wisdom and guidance.
Matt
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Matt the ScubaDoc,
Welcome ... Nice story ... as you will see, once you pose more details of the specific issues, many on this forum have amazing knowledge and very generous with it. You will also notice that posting photos is highly encouraged and enjoyed ... some just can't get enough Pagoda moments.
best,
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I am working on the pictures, there are some glitches when using an ipad. I will have to read the posting pictures thread.
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To the new Full Members
The following people, from "other than the Americas' have recently paid for full membership and thus helping us meeting the running costs of the Forum, have been sent their welcomes letter and windscreen decals. Some will have already received them some are in the mail today.
In due course they will also start to receive their Pagoda Notes and Pagoda World Magazine.
Paul F UK
Rob B Netherlands
Garry B Australia
Simond A Switzerland
Mark N Netherlands
K Pl UK
Paul T UK
Guillermo P Spain
Yvonne D UK
Koki H Japan
Howard S Australia
Welcome to you all.
Junior Level members, i.e. non subscribing members unfortunately do not receive these items nor have full access to the Technical Manual. ;) ;)
Garry
Membership Administrator
'Other than the Americas'
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Hi Garry - your post reminds me of the time I used to do this, for some years. Just a few suggestions:
- most people are not comfortable sharing their full name on forums and use some sort of 'alias'; I would recommend that you use those as well, even though as an administrator you can see real/full names
- because Pagoda World was issued so sporadically, I aleays made sure we printed spare copies so I could send the latest one to new members along with the sticker and letter; this made the welcome package much more 'substantial'
Thanks for putting in your volunteer time.
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Hi Cees,
Noted and amended names . The PW is a good idea and I will see if I can get some of the past PW's for future use.
Garry
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here are some pictures... pretty from afar, but the closer I look, the more rust I find!!! >:(
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Scubadoc
Interesting color combo ... I like it. In regards to rust, many on this forum will feel your pain. And some will be able to advise where the hidden rust lurks based on where you see it.
Enjoy the process ... You've got some supporters.
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Thanks, I think I like the color combo too, it even has a subtle red pinstripe.
My Dad tells me the original color was grey. I may return it to original if I do a complete restore someday. I will have to order the data card to find out the exact color combo.
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sd,
Welcome! Quite a few members here in Mass, btw. Several in your area, too including two on the Cape. Several of us typically attend "Germanfest" sponsored by the local MBCA chapter in Brookline in September...
http://larzanderson.org/events/lawn-events/lawn-event-list/mercede/
Kevin
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here are some pictures... pretty from afar, but the closer I look, the more rust I find!!! >:(
Welcome
I read somewhere that "if you don't find rust, you're not looking hard enough" and that if it's "rustfree" it simply means no-one found any yet
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Hi to all,
I looked around about a year for a 280 sl. But I ended up with a silver 230 sl of 1966. Because of its general state and the good feeling I had with the garage selling it.
I live in Belgium, near Antwerp.
I already found a lot of good information here, so I joined as a full member to acknowledge the support I got here.
best regards, Rudy
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Welcome to the group Rudy,
There is a wealth of information here and many to help you when needed in addition to full access and the Pagoda Notes and Pagoda World that comes with full Membership.
Pictures of your car are always welcome, we can never get enough at any level.
Garry
Membership Secretary
Other than Americas
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Welcome Rudy, we surely have to meet once this summer, I live in the neighborhood from Roosendaal so it's close to you.
Greetings: Ger.
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Hi Ger,
I am living near Brasschaat, so that is indeed a 20 minute drive to Roosendaal.
Don't know how to insert an image, I must say
best regards, Rudy
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Voila,
Rudy
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Hi Rudy and welcome,
Great shot, what color code is the car?
Shaun
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180,
I know, a bit classic, but it looks nice.
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Rudy,
NICE looking car. Love the color. Are you sure its 180, though....? This number isn't listed here...
http://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/PaintCodes
Kevin
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It is in the metallic section , third row: 180G
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Great looking car Rudy. Hope to see it in real once.
Greetings: Ger.
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It is in the metallic section , third row: 180G
OF course it is...my mistake...don't know why I didn't look down that far!
Again...Nice Car!
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I'm a new member (today). My name is Fernando Adrianza and I have a 280 SL 1968. I live in Houston, TX. but I'm from Venezuela. I'm Chemical Engineer and I work for Chevron. Previous to that car I had 17 years ago a 230 SL 1965 but I got married and the car was spent in the honeymoon so I decided to buy another one (against all odds).
I hope I can help the Club and the Club can help me.
My Best Regards to all the Members.
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Welcome FAdrianza !!
You will find there are many Pagoda owning Engineers (including me) on the site.
All of our members welcome your input and, with confidence, I can say that we will do our best to help you.
Mark
Membership Secretary for the Americas
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Rudy & Fernando ... Welcome!
Rudy ... good to have met you with Eric at Essen ... from talking to you, and seeing some photos, your car sounds really nice.
Best to both of you.
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Welcome FAdrianza!!
There a quite a few Pagoda owners in Houston. We have had several great gatherings and sharing of information. Here is a link to a past event. If the link doesn't work search the events forum for "Texas Event".
Let us know how we can help you enjoy your car and I will look forward to hopefully meeting you in the near future.
Norm
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=15916.0
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so today I collected my new car: 230 sl 1966.
Had to drive it 240 km to home (150 miles app.).
No big issues: drove in traffic jams and also up to 140 km/h. No heating up, good oil pressure.
Lots of noise (ratio 4,08) , very good acceleration, but high rpm.
Also probably some problems due to dirt in fuel, because of emptying tank whit driving to reserve. I hope it will be that.
Some parasite noises, that will need closer look.
Now procedures of inscription in Belgium will start. (Imported from the Netherlands)
best regards, Rudy
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hi, my name is John. I just joined about two weeks ago. Just wanted to say hi to everybody. I don't really "own" a Pagoda just yet but in a process of acquiring an abandoned one from my sister's house. My goal is to get the car running and become a proud w113 owners like yourselves on this forum. I'm from the USA. San Jose, CA to be exact and if any forum members from this area can steer me in the right direction to achieve this goal, it will very much be appreciated. I have absolutely no knowledge of this car up until two weeks ago so any help or input will be a tremendous blessing. Thanks you everybody and have a great day!
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Welcome here John.
Greetings from the Netherlands.
Ger.
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Welcome John, (always nice to have another John on the Forum:-) You have come to the right place for info on these great automobiles. I saw the pictures of your "Orphan" and while it saddens me to see a car such as this abandoned and left to rot, I am happy you have found it just in the nick of time and I wish you success in bringing it back to life.
John
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Greetings to you too gerster and thank you 49er for your encouragement and well wishes. So far this forum and the members here have been a tremendous help to me and hopefully in the future, I can be a contributing member once I gain more experience with these cars. In the meantime, I like to congratulate you for being the original owner of your Pagoda! There must not be that many original owners still around and I have great respect for people like yourself to have such dedication and loyalty to the things they love. Well, thanks again and hope to see more of you in the forum.
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My name is Bruce Springate & I live in Harrodsburg, Ky. I am 75 years old & retired in Jan. 2013 after 45 years of owning a sporting goods store. I purchased my first pagoda in 1978, a 1966 230 SL tan with navy(which I still own). About 10 years ago I purchased a 1967 white w/navy 230 SL I had the motor changed to V 8 out of a 1986 500SEC. The motor looks original & runs & drives great.
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Bruce,
Great that you have joined ... owning one of these cars since 1978 will probably make you one of the very long term owners ... very good to hear. Due to your long term ownership you probably know a lot about these cars and can advise us on the quirks etc. Look forward to that.
Regarding your engine change to a mercedes V8, you will find a couple of threads in the R&D section very interesting as others have just recently completed such feats or are in process. Your thoughts on such modifications would be very interesting.
Welcome ...
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I’m Enzo, 45, (father German, mother Italian) married with a German woman, and we are parents of a 14 years old boy. My passion for the MB classic cars are logical..My father has been working 32 years for the old MB Museum in Stuttgart-Untertuerkheim, and so I spent some weekends in these old Pagodas and R107 SL's. My father used to get every year a new employee's car, and for summer vacations we drove 1,300 Km to Italy to see our Italian family. I remember driving the old Brenner Pass with our Mercedes "dash eight 200", and later with the model line 123 down close to Gargano, which will be remaining forever in my memories. I simply love the design and lines of Paul Bracq and Pininfarina, this is probably the time I would have liked to live with the economic independence of today.
We are currently living in the mid south of the USA, close to Memphis. I am working as an Export Manager for a German engine parts company, and yes, we manufacture(d) a lot of parts for the Pagoa back then.
I drive a 050 white 230SL Pagoda (1965) which is currently with Bud's Benz in Douglasville for inspection, hopefully Doc David will not ask for all my vacation savings... : ;D ;D ;D
Enzo
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Hello everyone,
I like to introduce myself, my name is Rolf-Dieter S, retired Mechanical Engineer. I was born in Magdeburg, Germany some 75 years ago (still feel like 55) and immigrated to Canada in 1957, married now for 52 years one daughter. I purchased a partly reconditioned 1969 Mercedes 280 SL last week from a local collector of mainly 1950s to 1960s cars. The 280 SL was his wife's car. The car rolled off the assembly line in late 1968 and was shipped to Florida USA for the first owner. The second owner also lived in Florida, USA. The car left Florida mid 1992 for Canada with 65,102 Miles on the odometer where the third owner had it restored here in Ontario. When the car had 67,027 miles on the odometer the odometer had to be replaced. The new odometer now has 4,400 miles on it, therefore the total milage on this car when I purchased her was 71,427 total miles. From what I understand in the past 20 years the previous owners wife has only driven this car 4,400 miles. She eventually gave it back to him since she mostly started this car without driving it. As we all know this car loves to be driven and starting it only is not a good idea.
I own two late model cars (a 2011 Mercedes C350 4MATIC and a 2011 BMW M3) and purchased this 1969 Mercedes 280 SL since it will not only be great fun to have and drive to car shows, also I will enjoy working on the engine as I am now retired. When I was a young fellow I drove this type of car in Montreal and at that time the price was around $9,000- Canadian if my memory serves me right. I mainly drove American cars up to the age of 50, after that mainly Mercedes and BMW's. My love for German cars comes from watching my dad carefully taking his engine apart and labeling every part for reassembly :) Back when I was 17 I worked part time as a student in a small company, the owner had a Mercedes and I was allowed to drive this car out and back into the garage after washing her ... what can I say, I'm a car nut :)
Anyway ... I've done a lot of research before purchasing this car and I am glad I found one in such great condition. I look forward visiting this forum and once I figure out how things work here to become a Full Member. Photo attached below.
EDIT. 1… My former Mercedes C350 was my company car I sold her to a lady in Ottawa, Canada since our plan was to go to only one Daily Driver. Once the C350 Benz was gone my wife became unhappy with our joint decision to give up the Benz, so we traded the BMW M3 in for a nice 2013 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC last month now both the wife and I are happy after all I do have the 280 SL to play with :) Also note once I became a member here I changed my handle from Alter Peter to my real first name Rolf-Dieter. During this edit I also corrected the milage I earlier stated in this post.
EDIT. 2 ... June, 2016 Update Last year I changed my DD to the C63 AMG [btw I drive my AMG for safety not for speed, it's nice to have those 481 HP under the hood when needed, also love the sound] for I missed my M3. I like to think of my 2 cars as ...
EDIT. 3 .... All the cars have now gone ecept my SL 63 AMG and my Blue Tornado. See photo below.
Something New and Something Old
... and not nessesarely in that order. I'm found of both cars and I drive my Pagoda at least once a week during the summer months ... Also going to car shows. Soon I will have driven my Pagoda 10,000 Miles since I found her in May 2013.
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Great looking car Peter :) :)
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Peter,
Great story and beautiful car. Welcome ;)
Becoming a Full member is straight forward. You should go to the folder Profile (above) and follow the instructions.
Some of the reasons about joining as Full Member as stated here http://www.sl113.org/news-reader/items/membershipfunctions.html
Good luck
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Welcome here Rolf-Dieter, great looking car you have.
Greetings: Ger.
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Welcome to the group Peter. Love the colour of your car. There is another member here named Peter, also from London. Goes by pj on this forum. Hope to see you at upcoming events, including our big celebration in Williamsburg in September.
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Hello Larry, Norma, Flyair, Ger and Jordan,
Thank you for the welcome and kind words. I am certainly excited about my find of this fine automobile and look forward to participate in this forum.
Jordan, I will deffinitly make it to Willamsburg in September.
Cheers, Rolf-Dieter
PS. I’ve taken the handle “Alter Peter” since I visited the church in Munich last year and climed all the way to the top :)
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Welcome Rolf-Dieter
Nice Pagoda and BMW
I am looking forward to meeting you in Williamsburg
Frank
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Thank you Frank ... :)
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Enzo - Stuttgart68,
Very interesting background and interesting connections to these cars. Since you're in the business of German Parts and with a company that has a history of parts for Pagodas, you are perfectly positioned to helm a production of parts no longer available ;D
Alter Peter,
Nice history ... you will find many many engineers on this forum.
Welcome to both of you.
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Thank you kampala :)
Ordered a stand and cover for the hard top, expecting it by FedEx on Monday :) she looks super without the top on I love it.
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Hello Everyone,
My name is Lou and I am from Bensalem, PA USA (just outside of Philadelphia). I am a 51 year old Chemical Engineer working in the pharmaceutical manufacture field. I inherited a white ’69 280 SL automatic with 60,500. The previous owner was my father-in-law who passed away in 2009. The car is mostly stock and was well cared for but needs work to smooth out the age lines. (But who doesn’t at our age LOL ;)). Well the car sat in the garage for two years because I was afraid to drive it when I found out the throttle will stick. But I got towed to a MD dealer and got it road worthy again. Now I wish to pursue getting the car back to its former glory. I hope you kind folks will reply to my posts because I am hungry for advice.
Lou F
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Welcome Lou
Great that you joined and I am sure you will enjoy being in this mostly, but not exclusively (judging from Events) virtual community
One question: when you mentioned your car with 60,500 you meant dollars, euro or just mere miles on the counter? :D
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Thank you Flyer,
The 60,500 that I mentioned in the Introductions post is the miles on the 280SL or about 98,000 kilometers.
Sorry for the confusion.
Lou F
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Welcome to the forum Lou and you will find it is a great source of information for our SLs. Always great to hear another one of these great automobiles is back on the road again.
John
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Welcome Lou, we love pictures of member cars.
Greetings: Ger.
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Lou, Welcome to this fine forum, a great deal of information to be found here.
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Hello All,
New member here. I'll make my intro quick but with a little substance. In 1988 my father came home with a pic of a corvette and a pic of a Mercedes. He said he was going to get one or the other. A week or so we came home and found a 1968 250SL in the garage. That began my love of that car. As i grew older I asked and asked to drive it and the only reply I got was a laugh. Finally, long after giving up my dad suggested I take he car down and put gas in it. I remember the first day I drove it like it was yesterday.
In 2009 my father passed away and I got his Mercedes. I have been timid to drive it because after all those years of being scared to touch it I still hadn't realized it was mine. Last fall I took it out for a drive and the left front brake seized up so I parked it. I am starting to work on it again and the wealth of knowledge I have found here has been invaluable! In a couple of weeks I hope to have the parts back and try it again. So thanks to all of you for helping me!
Here is a peek.. (Maybe, If I can attach an image)
Mike
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Welcome here Mike . Car looks great!
Greetings: Ger.
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Sorry to hear about your dad's passing ... sorry for your loss.
The car looks nice and in time I'm sure it will be fantastic!
Welcome to the Pagoda Forum, a great bunch of Fellows on here ... have fun!
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HELLO ALL!!
A few years back I was lucky enough to inherit a 1969 280SL from my mother. At the time I was in college and did not really have the funds or the time to properly take care of the car. Now that I have graduated and started a decent career, one of those two things has changed--I will let you guess which! So now my adventure has begun...
I am a pretty active member of the Nissan Xterra forum, thenewx.org, since that is my daily driver, but now I am looking forward to really digging into the Merc and starting to fix it up. It has always been a daily driver in my family since 1973. I grew up in the passenger seat of the car as my mom drove it everywhere, so even at my young age (26 years), it has a very special significance to me. This is a feeling I imagine most all the members of this forum can appreciate! It has been garaged and driven exclusively in southern California as long as we have owned the car, and I believe the few years before my mother purchased it. The car runs pretty well for the life it has lived and I drive it every weekend and lots of weekdays when I get home from work. The sun setting on the left coast @ 6:30 in the evening makes for an excellent back drop for my grocery getting! My goal has never been to have a pristine vehicle that I can park at car shows and stand next to--I want to DRIVE it like my mother did for all those years and my philosophy with any work I do on it will be motivated by that paradigm. I figure I will dig mostly into the mechanical stuff and get it running like a top again. There are lots of small things and a few major things I am hoping to start addressing as funds become available to me. A little leak here, a creak there...etc...most annoyingly it occasionally pops out of fourth gear under throttle, which as I have read on here is going to be one of the major issues!
Maybe to get started you experts could point me in the right direction for finding some of the little parts I will need during the various maintenance procedures I am going to tackle? Up to this point I have had a mechanic do the routine stuff, but I want to start everything myself, so first on my list is start with the easy stuff, oil change, spark plugs, air filter, etc... Finding the filter itself is easy enough, but what about the little o-rings that accompany it? Where do most of you guys in the US source those type of parts? I tried rockauto.com then the suppliers list on here but unfortunately that list is not the most helpful for things like that. OR I came across this posting:
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=3896.0
For the spin on filter adapters...but there is no contact information and the post is eight years out of date! Anyone have a source to get one of those adapters today?? I am also looking to flush and bleed the clutch. I have the Haynes service manual, but after reading through that several times and attempting it myself, I cant seem to find the mysterious second bleed valve they suggest exists? I read on here that to flush the clutch I need to apply fluid pressure from the bottom and force the air upwards, NOT pumping the clutch to force the air out...is there a post on here that covers the procedure in more detail?
I am going to have tons of questions like that as I start taking the ole' girl apart, so if this forum is anything like the xterra forum I frequent, I am sure we will get along just fine. One of the best features of that forum is members post how-to's for just about everything, from the mundane to the most advanced. I haven't seen something like that on here yet, so perhaps as I go about my work I will document things with photographs in an effort to replicate that idea for the SL and help any less knowledgeable future members. So far my impression of sl113.org is most of the people on here know a HECK OF A LOT about what they are doing...so I look forward to interacting with/learning from you knowledgeable bunch and maybe even getting to meet any of the Southern California members if you are around!
For now,
Sal
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First ... Welcome Sal to this forum ... great story BTW ... as you search around you will find it to be an excellent forum. Your main source of information will be the Technical Manual (I think you need to be a member to access that area ~ you will find it to be money well spend) then further I suggest since you plan to do some of the work yourself is to find a good Service Manual for your car. You will find great detail in there to help you along.
As for parts and drawings I came across a few links that members posted here, as follows;-
Here is one ---> http://www.budsbenz.com/catalog/200/
and
Another ----> http://www.kkmfg.com/113catalog.php
This takes you to the Oil Filter ---> http://www.budsbenz.com/catalog/200/E%20-%20Oil
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Thanks for the reply! The car has had a checkered past! I was stolen once and recovered half stripped and abandoned in Los Angeles after which It was rebuilt and back on the road in no time. The second time was more interesting... my mom bowled regularly in the San Fernando Valley (just north of Los Angles) and the bowling alley manager came outside one day to smoke and noticed two would-be theives prying at the ignition with a screwdriver. Knowing my mom and the car he yelled at them to get out, to which they replied with several expletives! He ran inside to get my Mom and a baseball bat only to return to see the car rolling out of the lot as they tried to push start it! He scared them off with the bat and the car was saved! The final incident happened a few years ago after I had received the car myself. I came out from the grocery store to find a man sitting on the front fender, knife in hand. I threw him the keys from 15 feet out and let him know he could have the car, but that I would have it back inside of 30 minutes. He took a look at the LoJack keyfob, dropped the keys inside the car and ran off... I don't understand why this specific 280 has been the sought after prize of so many thieves, but luckily it lives on!
AND those are great links for me to start with as they have images AND part numbers!! that will help a LOT! I have the Haynes service manual:
http://www.amazon.com/Mercedes-1968-1972-6-Cylinder-Roadster-Automotive/dp/0856963461/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1374190503&sr=8-1&keywords=280+sl+service
That has been read cover to cover now, but I have yet to get any grease on it. I rebuilt a Yamaha R6 using the service manual and by the end the book was BLACK with grease and grime from me flipping through it on the garage floor. ;D Hopefully, I can start bragging about how dirty it is soon.
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All,
I have just "inherited" a very nice '67 250SL from my father. His is wife purchased it back in the '70s. He's got a few other cars and he's asked that I take care of it. This is my first Mercedes but not my first German car. I'm also a bit partial to Italian motorcycles as you can see from the pictures. I'm looking forward to participating here on the forum.
Regards,
Jeff
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7378/9426610035_cea32708c2_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/stufffromthekilinskis/9426610035/)
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5546/9429380882_4e50ce8ca1_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/stufffromthekilinskis/9429380882/)
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7361/9426612587_e455b5ffc1_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/stufffromthekilinskis/9426612587/)
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7314/9426609149_031e8f0b27_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/stufffromthekilinskis/9426609149/)
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3791/9429377330_27302a84d3_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/stufffromthekilinskis/9429377330/)
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Welcome to the forum. Looks like you will take car of your father's car just fine.
Nicely organized garage. You finally have an excuse to move that dead fish off your wall so you can hang the pagoda hardtop on the wall.
And whats under the orange tarp?
YOLO
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Welcome to the forum. Looks like you will take car of your father's car just fine.
Nicely organized garage. You finally have an excuse to move that dead fish off your wall so you can hang the pagoda hardtop on the wall.
And whats under the orange tarp?
YOLO
Thanks for the welcoming,
The Sailfish is there to stay. My greatgrandfather caught it 50+ years ago.
This is under the tarp.
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7328/9430148810_8ef5007a2e_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/stufffromthekilinskis/9430148810/)
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Looks like that Dukati has a good kick stand so it won't fall over onto the beautiful 250:-) That wood brace for shelves adds that extra bit of protection too :). Welcome to the Forum and from your pictures, it looks like you have an excellent example of this fabulous car and being in the family so long, makes it all the better.
John
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Jeff,
Welcome. Looks like a very nice 250 ... I can't tell if it's an early 250 or late 250 ... beautiful car! And a very nice garage full of other toys.
Enjoy.
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Welcome Jeff,
My brother had some nice Ducatti's and a Lambretta once but there was a bushfire through his property and now he calls them his 'art wall'
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Welcome to the forum Jeff, you arrived at a great forum good folks here and lot's of information.
Nice organized looking garage. I'm sure you find a safe corner for your Pagoda roof on a stand (you can get a nice strand and cover for your roof).
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Hi Folks
Iain from Perth, Scotland. 1969 280SL "California" Coupe. Just taken on the reponsibility of this Pagoda from my mother, the 2nd owner, who acquired it in 1981. The car was purchased new by a British expat working in Malta - hence the reason for the coupe version - who collected it from the factory in '69. (The documentation is in the history file.) The car and he returned to the UK in 1980 and my mother purchased it a year later. Mileage is 62,000 miles but the car has not been out of her garage for the last 7 years, (until now). Having got it to my garage, (on a trailer), it looks to need recommissioning rather than any major work, but time will show whether I am right!
I've been playing with Caterham 7s for the last 17 years and am currently restoring a 1939 Morgan 4-4 Series 1, so Pagodas are not within my normal comfort zone - I expect that the membership fee will be well covered by the technical info on the site and available from members. I've already found the Technical Manual section to be both interesting and informative.
A very poor picture is attached. Colour code is 726H - wouldn't be my first, or, for that matter any, choice of colour for a Pagoda but it certainly represents a very 60s colour image.
I look forward to developing new friendships in the Pagoda community.
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To Iain, welcome! Don't hesitate to share pics of the Morgan and your other projects.
To Jeff: you drive that Hummer much? :-)
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Hello, my name is Dan. I just purchaced Tish's Auto Service in Belleville, IL. We are a import shop specializing in European cars.
I hope to make some good contacts on Pagoda.
I also hope I may be able to help.
Thank you, Dan
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Welcome Dan, and congratulations with your new business.
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Hello Iain and Dan, Welcome to the Pagoda Forum, I;m sure you will like the folks here and the content ... you found the right place :)
Dan, on our next trip along Route 66 we might stop by and say hello. I hope when my engine is in tip top shape to make the trip this time in my Pagoda (providing the wife lets me go for a few weeks) ~grin~ I may even have company to bring along it's another Dan we call him Benz Dr. a real nice fellow. :) All the beast with your new Business !
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To Dan,
Welcome! The WikiPedia article on Belleville Illinois says there was a strong German influence there in the 19th century. Still noticeable today? That would make fertile ground for Mercedes, one might conclude.
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Hi, My name is Howard and I live in Northern NJ. I am in the "process" of purchasing a 69 280SL. The car is two owner car, and is as it left the factory. I hope to complete the deal by the weekend. Car is close to perfect. is 49USD a fair price. 4 speed, with A/C. No rust, full docs... runs great. What say you?.... :)
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If it's close to perfect as you describe, meaning to me at least spotless cosmetics (interior, paint, chrome etc in as-new condition) and technically as well (engine, trans, differential, brakes, etc etc etc ready for 50,000 more miles with only normal maintenance) then it's a very fair rpice, because to get any car into that shape this old would cost much more.
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Hi, my name is Dante and I live in Italy. I am the new proud owner of a 1965 signal red, manual transimission, 230 SL. The previous owner imported it in Italy from the US 4 years ago. The car is very nice but like any 48 years and 64,000 (or 164,000) miles on its back it has minor problems that I'm gradually trying to fix with the help of this excellent forum. I already "stole" precious information from these pages: did the linkage tour, replaced coil, replaced points with a Pertonix-like unit, found out a distributor advance problem and a rust issue in the fuel tank. You will hear from me very often in the next future!
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Welcome from nearby Switzerland Dante. Ask away!
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Hi Dante,
Welcome aboard the Group. As you are finding out there is a wealth of information here in the Tech Manual and also questions are readily answered by members some who have worked on these cars for many many years.
Pictures are always welcomed, everyone loves to look and especially around Italy I am sure there are some fantastic photo opportunities.
When you decide to become a full member, I will send some W113SL window stickers for the Group as the Membership Officer for the Non Americas.
Garry
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I just joined as a full member. Thanks for the welcome.
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Dante,
The system will confirm the payment shortly and I can see the paypal payment anyway so I will try to get your window stickers and intro letter off to you tomorrow or Monday.
Your red 230SL looks lovely and I am sure you will get much enjoyment from it.
Garry
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Thank you Garry
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Hi Cees, I will need a lot of help from the Group. Thank you.
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Hello Dante,
Welcome to the forum and safe and happy trails always! :)
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Hi Rolf. Thank you! ;)
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Welcome Dante,
My relatives on both sides of the family are from Italy. My father's family from Alvito (south or Rome) and my mother's family from the south, on the Adriatic. Welcome to the group. My grandfather's name "De Alecandro" was Americanized to "Alexander" back then. We will help you along, keep us up to date.
Joe Alexander (ja17)
Blacklick, Ohio
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Hi Joe. Where exactly is your mother'family from? I live in Pescara on the adriatic sea ..... Maybe we are from the same place or nearby ;)
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Hello Dante,
My mother's family "Gualtiere" were from the town of Borgia in the Cantanzaro Province. Their last name was changed to Quarture when they got off the boat here in the USA. There were also a lot of Italian "Ciaffoni" relatives on this side of the family.
My brother's first name is Dante also.
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Jay, glad to meet an italo-american friend on this forum. Greetings to your brother Dante!
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There are quite a few of us here I am sure... although my first name is Irish, my father's family was from Bracigliano outside of Napoli.
Welcome Dante!
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Hi Kevin! There is no doubt that Caputo is an italian family name. Glad to meet you here!
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My name is Greg Whitehouse I have been a collector of Mercedes since 1975 when I drove my first 280 SE 4.5. Love at first sight! Then driving many of their newer cars to work, and family cars. Now, recently three years ago I bought a 71 280 SL in Chicago, and restored it in Wi Black forest. great job, and now driving it as though it was a new car. Still afew little things, but its a dream. Beauty, handling, all wrapped into one. I am an electrical engineer owning my own company in China. I travel back and forth 8 times a year. We have also purchased some Mercedes in China; they are catching on to the Mercedes craze.
I reside in Mountain Lakes NJ and invite anyone to stop by for a chat .
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Welcome to the forum Greg,
You will find this a fantastic and great forum. You will find once you become a member here for a very minimal low fee, doors like the Technical Forum open to you that may help you iron out those little wrinkles yo mentioned that still exist on your car. Great feedback can be found in the tech manual on any aspect be it electrical or mechanical on our cars.
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Greg,
We met at Black Forest a few years back.
Welcome to the group !
I'm glad you are enjoying your 280.
Enjoy the ride.
Mark
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Greg, welcome!
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Welcome Greg,
Speak up on any issues you have. There are lots of experts and resources here.
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Hello ! My name is Paul van Houten , from 1949, married for 42 years to Hetty, no children and we are living in 's-Gravenzande, some 20 miles from Rotterdam in The Netherlands.
British classic cars used to be favorite. Never to old to learn, I found out that there are cars more comfortable and I decided to swap my Austin Healey for a car that I always liked for its looks.
A 1964 Mercedes Benz 230 SL European first delivered in Italy. Last saturday I had a smooth test drive and it will be delivered this Friday.
Best regards, Paul.
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Hello Paul,
Welcome to the Pagoda SL Group forum ... happy and safe driving always!
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Looks like an absolutely lovely car. Congratulations!
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Thank you Rolf Dieter and Mike. I hoped for more comments on the color of the car.!
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Hello Basil,
It is a nice colour as well as colour combination. I find that my blue car gives up different shades all depending on the outside light ... yours looks like a dark brown what is the colour code on your name plate under the hood?
Mine is blue 903 H ... I do get a lot of comments on my colour, almost more then on the car itself.
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040 is black
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Beautiful in black. What's the interior color?
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120 whisky . I will ask Mercedes Stuttgart for a copy of the data card and find out if this is the original color.
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Welcome here Paul it sure is a beautiful color, nice contrast with my car maybe we can meet once!
Greetings: Ger.
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Sure Ger, we will meet next spring.
I will use these next months to check the technical part of the car and update it where necessary.
Een groet van Paul.
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I'd like to welcome new member Pagoda0014 (http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=7303) to this forum. He is, after all, a special new member to the Pagoda SL Group. Why?
It's his car on the group logo (see picture below).
(http://www.sl113.org/imagebank/images/vanesp/img9183j.jpg)
Additionally, he is likely to attend the next European Event in 2014 at Goodwood (http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=19292). So if you have not seen his car in real life, that's your opportunity.
I hope he will introduce himself here and tell us more of the story of how he got to own the Böhringer Pagoda.
Peter
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Indeed welcome! I did not have the chance to meet him in Germany, but hope to do so at Goodwood. I did somehow manage to take a fair number of photos of the car!
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G'Day All,
Just joined your most informative and well organised Pagoda SL Group Forum. It's great! Thank you to all the organisers.
I don't have a SL yet but intend buying one when I visit California April 2014, so I'm looking, but like most don't want to spend too much. I low end car to start with is fine but it must be drivable. Any ideas?
I'm 55 years old, have a gorgeous lady with one small defect (she's not a Petrol Head) but I suppose most gals aren't.
My son is an airline pilot my daughter a nurse.
We live in Perth Western Australia which has the worlds best climate.
My favourite car is my '67 Mustang which is highly modified as I'm a confessed "HOON", I drive it regularly and everyone wants a race. Unfortunately it's a Police Magnet and I get stopped very often. For zip!!!
Looking forward to owning my 1st SL Pagoda.
See y'all
Roco
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Good'Day and welcome to the forum Roco, I'm sure you like the folks around here :)
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Welcome to the Group.
RHD Pagodas come up in Perth quite a bit and are usually a bit cheaper that the East coast. I actually flew over there to look at one. On the other hand if you don’t mind driving on the wrong side the US cars can be cheaper than the RHD cars. Having said that the resale value will always be commensurately less. Bit like trying to sell a RHD car in the USA. Not a big market for them there.
Suggest you look around here first to get a good idea what you are looking at or will be if you go the US route. They are nothing like a Mustang both is what to look for and condition based values.
Have a good read of the Tech Manual.
Garry
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G'Day Garry,
Thank you Garry for your post.
Well I'm, pretty surprised by you saying that Perth cars are cheaper the Eastern States ones. The general feeling by my buddies is that 1) Perth cars are dearer and 2) we don't have much choice.
My Mustang is LHD, having owner it for over 10 years, I really don't notice any difference with LHD.
I'm visiting the US in April to do the Mustang 50th Anniversary, did the 40th 10 years back and loved it. Plan on arriving in LA in April 2014 for 10 days by myself to source a Pagoda and do the Mustang Show. Back to LA to pick up Babe then we'll cruise Vegas, Grand Canyon, Lake Tahoe, San Fran, the Big Sur and then back to Long Beach to ship the car, then NY for a week.
See ya,
Rocco
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G'Day Rolf-Dieter,
It's G'Day not Good Day....... (Ha Ha) ;),
Thanks Rolf-Dieter for your welcome.
Looking forward to being part of the forum with you guys.
4 degrees c. for you today in Ontario, brrrrrr. It's gonna be 30 on Perth.
Rocco
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Rocco
When I was looking for my second Pagoda that I have now, I watched all the for sales around AUstralia for nearly two years. Don’t know about other cars but certainly the Pagodas appeared to be asking about 5-10k less in Perth. As I said I flew to Perth to look at one that was in pieces. I did not buy it only because the seller had not catalogued what he had and mixed it all up in boxes without any labelling whatsoever. That was two years ago and I doubt things will have changed.
You should do a lot of research, there are quite a few members and also Pagoda sellers in CA. There are also some shonky ones so private would be the best thing if you can find one that you want at the time. There is one of our members, Tom Collit, (tcolt@netzero.com) operating as LA Restorations who has a restoration shop in downtown LA that would do an appraisal if needs be and also store or work on the car for you. I purchased an E Type there two years ago, drove it around and back from Ohio to LA and Tom did a left to right conversion for me before shipping it back here for me. Worked out really well.
Garry
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G'Day Garry,
Thanks for your reply.
2 Pagodas,
How interesting. I have owned 2 E-Types over the years, the sexiest car in history. :o
Thanks you very much for your most welcomed and appreciate comments regards buying a LA car. Shonky dealers, well....... I very much appreciate the tip. That's great news that I have Tom Colitt's LA Restorations details for an LA contact.
When you drove the E-Type from Ohio to LA, how'd you get insurance?
I also bought my Mustang in Texas and drove it to LA - no insurance, just chanced it. I'll have my wife with me in April next year and she'll have a heart attack if she knew we were driving illegally, so I need to arrange insurance which is almost impossible for a foreigner in the US.
Can you confirm that dealers will not allow the car to be driven off the lot without sighting proof on insurance - correct Gerry?
In WA one can register and license cars pre 1988 without the need for RHD conversion.
See ya,
Rocco
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Rocco,
since you dared to boast about the climate, I will dare to ask: how often does it snow in Perth?
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Ha Ha, good one......all in good fun PJ.
What' snow anyway?
Rocco
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Peter (pj) … Weather in Perth is almost like Vancouver, BC. here and then when temperatures dip down they do get a sprinkling of snow :) sometimes a bit more like in 1992
I think I told you my story about the 4 months I spend in Australia on Business (Adelaide, Perth and Whyalla South Australia, mostly Whyalla) in 1984 and got to see the America's Cup and the boat that brought the cup to Australia.
Rocco, When I was down under I always greeted Folks with Good Day :) spoken with a German Accent of course ;D … I always did get a smile
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Rocco,
I had a 5 speed 280SL that I sold about 18mths ago together with what had been the second E Type I had owned. Too many cars in the shed ;D
You will need insurance. The way I did it was to use an American address, in this case it was another members address in Ohio. I also got a temp permit for registration from Ohio for 30 days. It was really quite easy for the reg. permit but was difficult for the insurance and I had to shop around on the internet a lot before I got one that would do it. Problem you will strike will be the green card or equivalent. I had worked in the USA for three years whilst in the military so had a number i quoted but in the end that was not necessary and they just gave me 6 months insurance (was the minimum). I will have to look up and let you low the company.
As far as dealers letting you drive off the lot, I am not sure but there is only one thing that works as far as I could see and that was $$$$$. Both with insurance and most other things as well ::)
I suggest you contact Tom. There are possible ways around the reg insurance I am sure. Tom actually rode back from PUB with me in the E Type, was a great trip. Here is the story.
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=14705.0 Ohio to Australia.
Garry
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G'Day Gerry,
Thanks for your correspondence.
I have a good mate in Santa Maria Cal. An ex Army Mate - so a GOOD mate. He'll help me with an address if needed.
Insurance
I have engaged a US Insurance company willing to insure me and my wife to drive. Only about $400. I am interested to see nevertheless, who you use to obtain a comparison quote but more importantly ,it's always good to have backup. You mentioned "Progressive" in your story. I have tried them and they declined. Do you have their email address or contact?
Regiastration
If I bought the car in Cal. Would you advise obtaining a 30 day Temp Permit as you did? Will this negate the need for a full registration?
Read you story, lucky I had a spare 10 hours. Most interesting!
I intend driving my Pagoda (when I buy it) LA>LV>Grand Canyon> Lake Tahoe>San Fran>Long Beach ......hope I don't encounter the breakdown issues you experienced. Mind you German engineering vs British = No Match.
You mentioned that there are unscrupulous LA dealers. If you can remember please let me know who I need to avoid and to remain ethical here's my email roycasey22@gmail.com.
Speak soon Mate.
Rocco
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A quick reply. It was progressive and your price was around the same And had to do six months. Definitely only get a 30 day permit. It was really easy. Walked into their equivalent of our RTA except it appeared to be a commercial rather than State run shop and within 5 minutes and $18 I had a permit to fit to the rear end.
If it all turns to poo you could always register Irvin your mates name then do a bill of sale to yourself. Just remember to inform that it is being exported so that there is no equivalent bog stamp duty on transfer. The bill of sale was enough. Also remember you cannot repeat cannot ship until you have the approval to import.
Many unscrupulous was a bit strong just that there have been some dealers mentioned on this forum as known for having ' dogs or sows ears so to speak' :o
Garry
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Hi Everyone,
Wanted to introduce myself, I 've had my 1968 250SL for about 10 years now, bought it from my grandfather who had since new. Was an Arizona car, rebuilt the engine and tranny about 8 years ago, currently cleaning up the body a bit.
Will be looking for a few odds and ends as well as likely some technical information and will share experiences.
I have been building race cars, customs and hot rods for about 25 years.
Thanks.
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Hello Leadfoot
Welcome to the forum, it's always nice to see another Ontarian join the Pagoda SL Group :) Perhaps we get together next year at one of our meets or Sunday drives :)
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Hi Leadfoot,
Welcome to the Group. Put some photos up in the Photos area, everyone loves to see photos and ask away, there is a wealth of information around here on the Forum.
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Good Morning all Members (Dzień dobry wszystkim) !
It's already time to introduce myself. I joined the forum a few months ago but I was slightly blocked due to my not so perfect english (my foreign language is "deutsch"). But the adventures of Andy from Auckland provoked me to join a discussion, congratulating him and add a few tips of my car restoration.
I live in Poland, 46 years old (like my Pagoda), I am an electronics engineer. Except of nice daily drivers have another special car: G-Class 350GD Turbo 1992 prepared (partially personally by me) for long trips. We go to the mountains of Europe and have fun exploring old 4x4 trails. Generally, my hobbies gravitate around cars.
Hoping that will fix all my mistakes in English, I say a big hello to everyone.
Thank you.
Dariusz
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Hello Dariusz,
Welcome to the Group. I was looking at an early G Wagon recently and nearly purchased it. Nice vehicle.
Post some pictures when you get a chance of your Pagoda. Every one likes to look and compare.
Again Welcome
Garry
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Welcome here Dariusz, have a great time and like Garry said, post some pictures of your Pagoda!
Greetings Ger.
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Hello and Welcome Dariusz!
Don't worry about your English it's perfect and in time will be getting even better :) I joined the German Pagode Forum for the same reasons to polish my German writing, since I've been too long in Canada. Looking forward to your photos.
once again Hertzlich Willkommen! :)
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Witam serdecznie na forum i zapraszam do kontaktu z polskim oddziałem Pagoda SL Group!
Pozdrawiam
Artur.
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Great that the Polish representation gets larger.
Welcome and hope you enjoy participating in this forum. It is addictive as are our Pagodas ;)
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Hello,
Garry, gerster, Flyair - thanks for your kind words of welcome.
Rolf-Dieter - vielen Dank fuer Deine sehr netten Begruessungswoerter !
Artur - dziękuję za niespodziewane powitanie w języku polskim.
There was a bit internationally, but let's get back to the English language.
I keep all photos on the Picasa website : https://picasaweb.google.com/dkdariodarek
There are 4 albums on the history of the Pagoda in my hands.
In order not to bore the viewer are divided into:
Arrival - https://picasaweb.google.com/dkdariodarek/MercedesW113Pagode1967250SLArrival
Restoration - https://picasaweb.google.com/dkdariodarek/MercedesW113Pagode1967250SLRestoration
Assembling - https://picasaweb.google.com/dkdariodarek/MercedesW113Pagode1967250SLAssembling
Final pictures - https://picasaweb.google.com/dkdariodarek/MercedesW113Pagode1967250SLFinalPictures
Enjoy watching!
Dariusz
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Dariusz,
welcome and let's keep in touch
witamy i liczymy na kontakty!
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Dariusz
Phenomenal work on your Pagoda! Welcome.
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Dariusz,
Pierwsza klasa prace można zrobić z tego samochodu. Pravo! Ona wygląda oszałamiająco. Klienci wchodzący że salon będzie wiedział, co qualety oznacza wykonanie. Byliśmy bardzo zadowoleni widząc wszystkie zdjęcia, dziękuję za dzielenie się.
(Dariusz, First class work you done on that car. Pravo! She looks stunning. Customers entering that showroom will know what qualety workmanship means. Enjoyed seeing all the photographs, thank you for sharing).
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R-D
Google translation is very handy an most times it works quite OK. Polish however is a tough animal and for google it is the major failure in that chapter...
nice try though ;)
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I know Stan, that is why I included the English as well :)
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Have got an idea: let's get into the Polish language in this forum.
Looking statistically from several recent posts, it would be the simplest way for all... ;)
Thank you for the positive feedback about my 2.5 years of work. Opinion of the people who know the subject, is the greatest satisfaction.
I forgot to add one more thing. If someone had a question about the detail of my restoration, feel free to ask.
If I knew how to answer, I'll do it with pleasure and to my best knowledge.
Kampala - thank you for the warm welcome.
Dariusz
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Fabulous, excellent work :) :)
Are you going to drive it?
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Thank you Larry,
Now begins the winter, slowly appears salt on the roads.
I will use this time to "see as much as one could wish for" at a new car.
But in the spring, I'm going to start the operation, although only during good weather.
Greetings,
Dariusz
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We welcome you warmly to the forum.
Congratulations on the excellent restoration
and look forward to meeting with you in the summer on Polish roads.
Do zobaczenia ;D :D ;)
Marcin
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Have got an idea: let's get into the Polish language in this forum. Looking statistically from several recent posts, it would be the simplest way for all... ;)
Dariusz,
you can do it, indeed... but only once. Then, the forum administrators who will gladly kill that idea ;D
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Dariusz,
you can do it, indeed... but only once. Then, the forum administrators who will gladly kill that idea ;D
To be honest, I count on it.
There is no better way to learn to swim, than jump into deep water.
... unless you will drown ... ;D
Cheers, Dariusz.
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Nah, I would just move it into a Polish thread....
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Hi Guys,
Also new on this site though I was on the MB veteran list a decade ago or so. I have an "horizon blue" 250 SL of November 1967, among the last produced which I purchased in California in 1998 - it was an original black plate and I'm the fourth owner according to the service book. It is in absolute original condition, never resprayed. It runs fantastically well thanks to a "magician" in the Netherlands, close to Amsterdam (yes, I'm writing from old Europe...), who fixed a few issues and tuned it wonderfully: the car still reached 180 km/h (in Germany only -:) !) easily and is still very punchy, with a perfectly functional automatic gear box. happy to give the details of the specialised workshop to anhy interest member: the guy is not cheap at all, but you see the difference when you get your car back
I've been a long time customer of MB until the early 2000 where I got fed up with recurrent electronic bugs on my then brand new CLK cabrio 200 kompressor and an equally brand new ML 270 CDI whihc I bought for my wife - this car had so many problems that we wold it (for a very low price...) hardly two years laters. I went to BMW (not much happier) and to Audi for a A6 avant 3.0 TDI quattro - a fanstatisc car that i drove for 137,000 KMs without a single bug!.
I'm currently considering buying a 2003 SL 350 (R230 model) but am hesitating because of the bad memories of MBs from that time. If anyone has some insight on the reliability of early 2000's SL 350, I'd be happy to get some feedback.
Cheers,
Marc.
(UK)
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Hi Marc,
Welcome to the forum. Post some pictures of your nice Pagoda. I had no issues with a C350 4MATIC I drove for 2 years, just found the inspection costs a bit high (first and second year warrenty inspection). I also had four M3's over the past 10 years never any issues. Now only have the 280 SL and just got into a E350 4MATIC as our DD love that E350 so far no issues.
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Marc,
warm welcome. I bet you will enjoy participating in the forum and will take a good advantage of the resources.... especially useful when you become Full Member
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Hi Marc,
Welcome you as warm as I myself was greeted in this forum a few days before.
These are pretty cool guys, I guess ... :)
Dariusz
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Hi I am Jean
I own a 1963 230sl.
I bought it in Arizona in 1993 and moved back to France in 1998 with her and other goodies. It was bought new in Germany by a GI in 1963, brought to colorado in 1965 and I acquired it from the second owner in Arizona.
Before I left the US I had it fully restored. Now that I have more time I can finally enjoy this incredibly good looking and modern car.
I ma glad I have found such a well documented forum. I will post pictures once I figured how to transfer the pics
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Bienvenue Jean!
Good to see you here, there's tons of useful information around the site and in the technical manual, and don't hesitate to ask questions if the search function comes up empty ...
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Hello Jean!
Welcome to the SL Forum ...
Happy Holidays !
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Hi Jean,
Welcome to the forum.
Here is a lot of people hungry enough, that they want to see the pictures of your car (especially as you write if it is fully restored). Everyone likes to look at the beautiful things, especially if they are called Pagoda.
A good way is to store albums with pics somewhere in "cloud" (internet outer server) and write here only link to them. I do so. Once again warm welcome.
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Welcome to our Group as a Full Member Jean,
I will send you out an introduction letter and some window stickers in due course once the celebrations have gone and settled.
Look forward to seeing some photos as Dario suggested.
Garry
Membership Secretary
Other than Amereicas
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Thank you all for your warm welcome.
Merry Christmas
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Bienvenue Jean. Chanceux! Je ne peux pas imaginer un rêve plus plaisant que de conduire un Pagode en Provence.
Tom Kizer
Un américain expatrié à Québec
And to be courtious:
Welcome Jean. Lucky you! I cannot imagine a dream more pleasant than to drive a Pagoda in Provence.
Tom Kizer
An expatriot American in Quebec City
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Ooops.
My third post, but not too late, I hope, for introduction. ;)
I am in sunny California.
The High Desert to be exact in the North end of L. A. county.
I call it the oil filter of L.A. : "all the sh*t get's stuck here." :-\
So given my (mostly) culture, morale as well as taste deprived surroundings, I am surrounded by nothing but Pick-up trucks and 10+ year old japanese econo-boxes.
BUT we have 4 ! Walmarts to 300 000+ widely spread inhabitants, more like dwellers, if you will.
I am not really your SL kinda guy, but more old Mercedes sedans and coupes, from a handful of 300s ("Adenauer" a-d) to Pontons, Finnies, 108/9s, w114/5s, w116s and on).
My "newest" car is a 1993 300TE and that's about when Mercedes went to 'throw-away' cars. Just my opinion.
I try to save old Mercedes, but I am seriously out-numbered as to people dumping and destroying them, but I try.
My intent for 2014 is creating a network for private people, professionals, All branches from restorers to parts suppliers to mechanics and painters or upholsterers to create a source for anything OLD MERCEDES worldwide ! KIND OF like a club, but more !!
Tell me if you want to be included. Or I may ask you somewhere down the line, for resources etc...
I do have a Pagoda, a LHD 230SL, one of the first 8k I believe, that has an interesting UK history, but that I want to drive before it's "all over".
I hope to connect up with some nice people here.
Thanks
Alex
So Cal
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Welcome Alex, sounds like you have many stories to share!
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Hello Alex,
Welcome to the forum, your idea sounds good. Let us know how you make out.
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My "newest" car is a 1993 300TE and that's about when Mercedes went to 'throw-away' cars. Just my opinion.
Alex,
Ah no, cannot agree here. :D
The W124 chassis (S124 in your case) has one of the highest reputations among youngtimer Mercedes cars, at least in DE. The "dump away" perod of MB started _after_ the W124 (W210, 202, etc.) although the late 124s (MOPF 2 = facelift models, 1994 onwards) are not more known to represent that high quality than the earlier 124s (pre-facelift) ...
Achim
(W124 fan, especially S124)
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Just bought 250SL # 3956. It's a 5 speed. I have some reciepts. Had a 280SL prior. I will have to tow it to take possession. (bad gas).
When it gets to the shop it will get new fluids throughout including a siphon and flush of the fuel tank. Associated filters included. Rust appears to be minimal.
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Welcome for another 250 SL! Be sure to enter the car info into the registry/database on the site. Lots of great people out there to help with questions for the re start process. Also lots of historical information on the site. The "search"function is your friend.
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I've been lurking a long long time,so it's finally time to say hello and add a bit of story.
First I'm old,a coot...and have been around MB's,in the family,for almost sixty years. My uncle,a Marine,Tarawa Iwo Okinawa ,liked MB's and got a 190D in '57,or there abouts. It was quirky,and odd..but was totally wonderful to be around,the aromas,the noises,the solidness..but for a ten year old unforgettable. So seven or more years pass,I'm in boarding school and visiting my roommate during summer vacation and his dad shows up in his new 230SL,green over tan,an automatic. Up until then the XK-E was going to be my car,but that was a new day.
Well it took a while,but I've had my 230SL for twenty three years. It's come a long way..it ran when I got it,but I took a risk taking it on that "test" drive..brakes,not so much..that knocking in the engine,loose crank what..anyway it has come a long way. And if I'da known anything I'da passed,then. But I know more now,just a bit,cause you can't very well stop in the middle of the deep muddy,you keep on and learn a little on the way. One lesson is from the Wizard of Id when he sez if you don't know what it does,don't mess with it..and the other is the only thing you can do with rust is sell it ;).
I'll put a pic or two up,when I can speed up this new iPad,since I've taken pics of 0962,the vin,it's early,since the day I picked it up and drug it back here. It's been fun...but it may well be a younger person's game.
Cheers,RE
Cheers,
RE
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Hi Ralph,
Welcome to the Forum as a Full Member. As Jonny B said, make sure your car is on the car register on the site.
Glad to see you with a sense of humour, its, needed when working on MB’s and opening the wallet to buy spares.
Not so sure about the being old. I am a ’47 Boomer and don’t feel that old!
Look forward to some photos some time.
Garry
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Hello RE,
Welcome to the forum .... I'm sure you make a lot of friends here ... some of us might even be older then you :)
after all what they say again ... "You are as young as you feel" touch wood I still feel great :)
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Garry and R-D...
anyway we are here talking about vintage cars, so the age of their owners doesn't matter. Suffice it to say that your age is BP or AP (read before Pagoda or after Pagoda) ;)
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Thanks guys,appreciate the welcome..I do feel pretty good to be 66,no need to rehab yet,and am glad to have saved/restored 0962..she looks better than I do,on the surface subjectively maybe.
I found some out of sequence pics,so I'll try to attach here..and try to do better,as I learn ,where when if etc..I'll comment if successful,otherwise appear dumb rather than remove all doubt..;)
Cheers,
RE
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Hi, intro here. I've had MB's for 38 yrs now. Am very interested in acquiring a pagoda and have been looking and learning for a year or so. Currently have a W108, W126 and R129. Joining now to get more info. Last summer went to Forest Grove Concourse and learned a lot there about Pagodas. Currently doing a full restore on a 72 MG Midget.
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Rumb
Joining this forum prior to purchasing a pagoda is a very wise thing, which I didn't do and regret it very much. The amount of information in both the forum and the Technical manual are incredible. I think that you will benefit a lot by reading the threads and exchanging viewed with many members, some of them being the best professionals of Pagoda one could encounter.
welcome and enjoy!
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New to the site as I just purchased a 66 230SL Euro versions
Creme color with black interior, automatic with a kinder seat.
All panels and mats are in place.
All books and service records documenting her 119K miles
Everything appears to be original other than carpets (transmission tunnel carpeting is stock).
I do have a couple questions;
I'm used to the Burlwood in my 560
What type of wood is in 66?
What is the connector (with spring cover) on the firewall under the hood?
Im on a hunt for a few pieces
Beauty rings
Ash tray lid/cover
R/S door mirror (does this affect car value in any negative way?)
The car is running vary well and the shifts are crisp.
I need to bleed the brakes and check wheel cylinders.
I couldn't stand the rattle in the door so I pulled it apart and re attached the aluminum slide bracket.
Cool cars!!!
Al
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Al
welcome on board. Your message shows that you are well positioned to become a Pagoda-addict, as most of us here :)
One of your best friends on this forum should become the Search functionality. Most of the questions you asked are treated in detail in several posts. Obviously the best think is to join the Group as a Full Member, giving you full access to our Technical Manual, and therefore to the response about most question one may have while renovating his dear Pagoda.
Just to answer your first question, here is what our wise men said in the Technical Manual: "Pagoda wood trim is near a medium oak color in many cars today. There are some who believe the original color was a medium dark Mahogany color but all agree that the finish was satin, not glossy. This is in contrast to the wood trim in other Mercedes of the 1960's. Some of the sedans, for example, had wood trim with a high gloss finish."
BTW: The Pagoda woods that you find offered by some resellers directly or on eBay present a verity of wood aspects, both mat and gloss. Setting apart quality and personal taste, it is all about how close to originality you want to be.
As for the connector with spring cover on the firewall, it is to connect a repair light (a device with a long cable and a lamp attached using a spring catch) that could be connected using a special jack. You can find some original or modern devices on eBay from time to time.
Good luck
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Thanks for the warm Welcome!!
I've removed the original wood and I'm having it refinished.
The quote about the wood is what brought me to this fine forum.
I get the satin finish over the gloss but I'm still curious as to the actual wood used.
I know the underside is basically plywood but that very thin finished strip glued to the base has me curious.
The e-bay and aftermarket stuff is mainly a plastic base and I personally think it will warp over a short time.
This still has the original blue plastic nuts so I'm thinking I should keep whatever I touch the way it was meant to be :-)
Thanks for the tip about the light source, I'll check at what point I get power and ground to the connector and make a light specific to the car until I find the real deal. I'll measure it but I'm assuming it's going to be 12 volts.
I repaired the trunk wire because I couldn't stand not having light back there.
That of course has me looking for the wire covering... No luck yet :-)
Again, thanks for the information!!
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for the wood, I've done mine at the shop called Autodrewno (Car-wood).
Here is their website, for me it is a pure enjoyment looking at those rotten pieces turning back to live. Hope you enjoy it too. There is one example of Pagoda wood, unfortunately, it is a glossy one. But he does original aspect too, obviously.
http://www.autodrewno.com/en/index.php
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Hi Al,
Welcome to the Pagoda SL Group ... congradulations on your fine car! Happy trails in your fine State of the USA ...
I hope to take mine all the way to US Costal Highway 1 (have done so with several of my former cars), perhaps next year to Pebble Beach :) time will tell.
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Hi,
Im Louis. I registered before and even posted, but somehow it only showed me as a guest. Anyway, Im in Houston TX and have a 1971 280Sl, automatic, Blue on Blue
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Louis,
Welcome ... you will find other active members in your area that you can hook up with. Also there are some very helpful people here and a lot of info in the Tech Manual.
Please post some photos of your "blue on blue"
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Hi Louis
Welcome from another newbie!!
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I will try to get some pics up. Like I said, I joined once back in 2011, but somehow all my posts are showing up as guest...nuts, anyway, Norm was very helpful to me as well as others here
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Louis,
sometimes it works better and that mention "Guest" is replaced by "Full Memmer" once the dues are paid ;)
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Hello Louis, Welcome back, nice to see another blue on blue even if it is on the southside of the border :)
Enjoy the summer driving, I had mine out 2 times this past week, this weekend I only managed to clean the garage :)
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Hello,
First of all thank you for creating and keeping this site alive. I have just bought a 1970 280sl and am in the process of restoring it.
What seemed like a few things to fix has turned into much...much...much more. I guess once one part looks its bets the rest just has to be improved. I hope to have the car ready soon, assuming funds last that long.
This site has proven an invaluable resource for research into even the most obscure subjects about these cars and i thank you all again.
Having used this site to answer such existential questions as "Should my engine compartment be black or body colour" or "what colour are the heater switches originally" i thought it was only polite to join and thank you all.
Another thing i have picked up on is this group's insatiable appetite for pictures, so here goes my attempt at before (as bought) and now (hopefully not the final state).
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Welcome! And you did pick it up correctly about the photos! What is the color, anthracite Metallic? Hard to tell from the computer screen. Interior color change?
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Correct, 172 anthracite metallic i hope it will show off the chrome nicely. Interior will stay black with a black steering wheel.
A few more photos
Will post more once finished!
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Great stuff 280sl, I've never seen a clean engine like that one ... You should set it up for a nice photo shoot before you install the engine :)
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Hi,
My name is Robert and I live in a bayside suburb of Melbourne, Australia and am a self-confessed Pagoda tragic. I can often be seen driving up and down beach road in Melb., in 'my girl' ('69 280SL)
I first came across the marque over a dinner discussion with friends about classic cars (mostly Italian variety) when my wife, who grew up in the UK, stated that her classic car of choice would be a 'Pagoda' (I'd never heard of them). That night following some internet research..... I fell in love.....and had to have one.
We decided we wanted a less common colour and after a 1+ year search, in 2010, I ended up bidding in haste for a my girl ...car unseen! ...apart from some exterior photos. I had no idea the UK cars were renowned for their rust. The elderly gentleman seller had only covered 3000 miles in the 19 years he owned it and seemed genuine...thankfully he was. I didnt sleep for 3 months waiting for the delivery of it. The car was very good but not great and for one reason or another I ended up restoring it again in a totally illogical order. Almost everything I learnt about these wonderful machines was from this forum / website. I cannot beleive the information and support that was/is available. What's funny is that other owners / new friends now turn to me as some sort of expert on them.
This year my car was runners up in the MB (Vic) concours event. Like the rest of us, I never tire of the attention and praise these cars receive in the public.
I have enjoyed this experince so much that I recently purchased a stable mate for my girl. (an older boyfriend if you will....being a stick shift :D) as this is an Australian delivered manual in Dark Red (Burgundy). This will be my project car and I intend restoring him in an orderly fashion without the urge to drive it unfinished (thanks to my girl).
No idea how I will find the time as I have 4 daughters including twin (2 year olds) - but I know I will somehow.
Sorry to boast about my cars ..........pleasse allow me to share some photos (as I love admiring everyone else's). The first photo is 'that' ebay photo that reeled me in, and the last is the recent purchase.
Thanks again to this forum for being so informative.
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Beautiful cars Rob! Thanks for the pics and Welcome!
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Hi Rob,
Welcome to the Group. Bet you are not driving it today in the wet and cold >:(
I didnt enter my car this year in the MBCV Concourse competition due to ill health. Congratulations on runner up. Mine did the same last year at Flemington.
You will find this Forum a great resource as you start the restoration on th second car. Full Membership will give you full access to the Tech Manual where such things as the Linkage Tour is essential if you are going to do some of the work and maintenance your self ;) ;)
Look forward to seeing you around town in your Pagoda.
Garry
Membership Secretary
for ‘other than Americas'
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Welcome Robert to the (happy and content bunch :)) forum, guess you know already there are knowledgable Pagoda owners here that are happy to share there experiences with you when issues surface.
Nice set of cars you have!
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Robsirg,
Welcome (even though you've been here quietly for some time). Really nice looking cars.
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Thanks All,
I will get around to upgrading the membership in time as I could surely use the extra benefits for the project.
Yes Garry, not driving it this week......I was also at Flemington in 2012 and picked up the encouragement award - I guess it worked as it encouraged me to redo the interior and tidy up the engine bay.
I will surely bump into you at some future event.
Cheers
Rob
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It was in storager for the past 10 years and owned by the previous owner since 1989 . It was purchased with 58,0000 miles and it nowe has 66,000 miles
I started replacing hoses and wires and general lubrication while at the same time driving daily. kind of what I would call a break in period. gone through four tanks of gas and am very pleased with the results so far...any tips or things I should be looking for would be greatly appreciated. having some trouyble getting the wiperts to work properly...any help would be appreciated. spark plug gap would help to....
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Hello, my name is Christopher Wright, I've bought a beautiful (at lest I think so) 1970 280 auto, this a acquaintance with the w113, I had a 230 back in the late 80's. my 280 is a 2 owner car the last owner for 42years, White /white hard top, black soft top, black mtex. the po, a lovely guy from Nokomis FL unfortunately he didn't keep any receipt's, except for the oridginal data card, and metle plate for the first owner, service book, ect ,I,ll post some pics up elsewhere when I get myself sorted out, just wanted to say Hi for now. Chris.
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Welcome, Milly and Chris to the forum and happy driving with your Pagoda!
Milly, Nice Car!. Make a search about "Wipers" and "Spark Plugs" I am sure this has been discussed in other sections of this forum or post a separate thread stating your problems with the wipers for example. You find members here are a great help when it comes to issues on our cars. Good Luck!
PS. I think the gap is set at .04 inches (approx 1 mm).
Chris, looking forward to see the photos!
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Hello All,
I am a long time lurker and finally signed up for the site this evening.
My name is Paul and I am located in Toronto Canada. Since I was a kid the Pagoda series Mercedes have held a special appeal for me. They possess, in my eye, a combination of sportiness and elegance matched by very few cars made before or since. For as long as I can remember, I've wanted one and have now decided to become a bit more serious about taking the plunge. Before I can buy though, I need to take some baby steps first by learning more about the cars (and by actually taking one for a drive). Since I am new here and new to Pagodas in general, I will appreciate members' patience as I ask questions and learn. In future, as I become more knowledgeable, I hope to be able to contribute more actively to forum discussions. I welcome any members, especially those in the Toronto area, to contact me at any time.
Best Regards,
Paul
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Welcome Paul!
There is a LOT of information on the site about what to look for, check for, listen for, etc during the (pur)chase process. I would highly recommend you get familiar with the search function and read through the information about how to go about inspecting a car.
That typed, the folks on the site will simply fall all over themselves to help you with your decision.
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Thank you Johnny,
As I've been told in the past "search is your friend" so I'll definitely be starting there first when something comes up. From what I've seen this is indeed a site of very kind and helpful enthusiasts so I've no doubt I'll enjoy the time I spend here.
Best Regards,
Paul
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Welcome Paul!
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Welcome Paul.
The search is half the fun.
When you are looking at cars, take photos and put them on the forum, there are plenty of us here who will pick up errors from originality or give advice in the nicest and most helpful way so you get to understand what is right and wrong with the car and take them as intended. That way you can also get some idea of cost to bring back to original if wanted.
And then when you get to ownership, Full Membership of the Group has its benefits ;D
Garry
Membership Administrator
“other than Americas"
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Hello,
My name is Igor and I am a new member here, although I found this thread late - I had posted some pictures of my rolling resto here already...
http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=21020.0
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I am Jan Lauwers; I live in Geel, Belgium.
My first introduction to old timer cars was my baby blue Fiat 500 which I bought in 2007 and sold with a loss 3 years later. Learning point: never buy a classic car in a blinded moment of love or passion. Fortunately the budget was small and looking back on it…hey, I had 3 years of fun with it. Because of the Fiat 500, I started to take evening classes auto mechanics which, after 7 years now, I still attend.
A Pagode was always my dream and with getting older (I’m 56 now) I found to my own surprise that perhaps I could afford one. Unlike with the Fiat, I did not want to take an emotional decision on the purchase, so I spent 3 years looking for the right one, and just when I was coming to the view that I was never going to find a good one... I bumped into a white 280, in mediocre condition which I immediately bought for a VERY reasonable price.
The condition is only average, but structurally, the car is sound. No rust, a few oil leaks. I try to the maintenance now it, but I have great plans with it for a full restoration. This winter I will take the engine out and try to fix the oil leaks. I enjoy working on it just as much as I love driving this wonderful, elegant beast.
This forum is a blessing... I am so grateful for everybody’s contributions.
Have fun!
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Jan,
Welcome! I believe you have found the right place and right group of folks to help you with your dream. As others will be sure to add, post more pictures when you can. We just love to see the photos.
Kind regards,
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Jan,
welcome to the forum... when there's events in Europe, do try to join in. We have quite a few members in Belgium!
Peter
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Hello Jan, Welcome to the forum and your plans to restore your find further are great, do start a thread and document your progress this is what this forum is all about. You will find knowledgeable members commenting and helping you along as you go.
Good luck and happy travels~ :)
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Hi Jan, I live close to your place.Sint Job,
Groeten Rudy
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Hello My name is Reg and I have been a member for a short while. I live in Victoria B.C. Canada and have owned my 1966 230sl for 7 months, During that time I have used the forum and read a lot of threads to help me along the way to repair my 230sl... Really could not do a lot of these repairs without this help.. Thanks again and hope to post some interesting comments in the future..
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Reg,
A very warm welcome! Many here will want to know more about how & why you acquired your 230sl.
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And a welcome Reg from NewBrunswick
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Welcome Reg,
The search function is your best friend and remember we love photos here, post one of your 230SL. ;D
Garry
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Hello Reg,
A hardy Welcome from Ontario to the SL forum, don't be shy to ask questions along the way if you need help as you may have discovered there are very knowlagable people in here that have tackled many a problem with there Pagoda and are willing to help out. As Gerry pointed out we love photos here so post one if you have a chance. Happy travels on them fine BC highways :)
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We just replaced our white 190sl with a 268 Green 1966 230sl, it is quite original with nicely worn in leather seats, both tops, kinder seat, 71k miles Alaskan car with no rust.
We also have a 6.9 sourced from the original oil baron owners secretary, a w140 coupe, and my boy has a grey/palomino 450sl.
In the last twelve years we've had quite a few very early 911's, one 930, one 2.8 litre twin plug 911 racer, three Interceptors, a couple 50's jaguar xk's, a half dozen big healeys which were rough drivers, and a lot of six cylinder E-types, mostly series one cars.
Now with just one project xk150, Jensen interceptor, MGA (my first car, still with 26k miles), and the Mercedes group above.
We should have another early flat floor e-type soon, but that is it. All of the cars were used by me, worked on and driven hard at their limits or mine (in the case of the modified 600hp 930). If you think you can drive, try a modified 930 in winter
We had my mothers 300sel she left with me as a town car through all of the others, and it just outlasted everything, although one 911 I drove almost 50k miles, and one series two e-type roadster I drove over 40k miles year round here in Anchorage. The point of the ramble is that a confirmed 911 and e-type guy now owns more Mercedes than anything else. My neighbors pointed out that I cant hardly call myself a Jaguar guy anymore.
I am a former successful person who specializes in spending foolishly and investing poorly, yet somehow still have a beautiful spouse, and we have taken on three young and beautiful children. The six year old loves the pagoda kinder seat, and the little car is a lot of fun at family speeds.
We are still searching for a 300sl to use as a regular car, but the stratospheric prices make it a little silly
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Welcome douglasdolphin,
Very nice automobile history and collection! Somehow I think of all garages up there, are filled with big four by fours and snowmobiles. Have you ever considered a Mercedes Unimog? Do you get much "top down driving" ? I am sure you will enjoy the Pagoda, it is a very durable and drivable classic. You'll find a lot of good members to help you with any needs on this site. Keep in touch.
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Welcome to our Forum Doug, Many helping hands here if you need a helping hand :) Post a picture of your fine car, we love to see pictures :)
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Hello all,
Just wanted to post a quick intro and give thanks to all those that put together such a great site for W113 enthusiasts. I'm new to the fold but have been longing for 113 for a while now and simply can't wait any longer. All of my experience so far has been with other brands of newer era's (other than classic Corvette's) but I've been the proud owner of an E55 AMG and G320 over the years and have a strong appreciation for the classic Benz.
Ironically the car that brought me and already had a thread of it's own but the title leaves on wondering, I mean what do you say about "YIKES!" :D I'll post on the thread shortly to get some feedback and provide information.
Thread is here: http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=21498.0
In any event thanks again for having me and I hope to participate more from here on.
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Hi there,
My name is Dave Tobin, I joined the Pagoda SL Group last year and look forward to becoming more active in the forums during 2015.
I'm a car guy, through and through, to put it mildly. I never paid too much attention to Mercedes SLs or Pagoda SLs until I fell in with a group of local Mercedes Club members who all had them and who organized a spin off group of our local Mercedes Club called 'The Pagoda Pack'. As usual, it was the efforts of a single individual that made a difference. This gentleman really built a solid Pagoda community in my area of Minneapolis, MN. A guy named Ken Garelick organized 'the Pagoda Pack' - put the word out to all Pagoda owners in the area that he was putting together a local registry of Pagodas and their owners, he even published a newsletter called 'The Pack Update' for a few years, chronicling the people and their cars, organizing events, etc.
I was invited as a guest to a few of these events (as I had no Pagoda at the time... I had a '73 280C) and found this was a fun group of people who were quite passionate about their cars, I began to appreciate them. Over the intervening couple of years I started working with the publisher of the SL Market Letter - http://www.slmarket.com (http://www.slmarket.com), John Olson, and got that much further engrained in the classic Mercedes hobby. I’ve recently taken over editor duties of that publication.
So along the way I drank the Pagoda Kool Aid and last Spring, after the sale of my old air cooled Porsche 911 (not a car that was easy to part with!) I found a 1965 230SL Euro model locally that had been imported into the U.S. in the mid 1980s, still equipped with its Euro lights and gauges... interestingly, it was almost the exact same color as the 911 I had just parted with, "Red Poly" is the Mercedes color... sort of a metallic red / orange / copper color... I knew when I went to see it... as soon as I saw it, I was going to take it home.
That was that... I was finally a part of our local "Pagoda Pack" and the next logical step was to become a member of the slw113.org group... so, here I am.
My car is a solid driver example, not a show car, a car that I drive and use as often as possible. For the past 3 years I have organized a vintage car rally / tour, the Walleye 1000 Vintage Rally - http://www.walleye1000.com (http://www.walleye1000.com). A classic car tour that covers about 500 miles of back roads around Minnesota and Wisconsin over two days. The 230SL was a champ running that event last year. I also took it on a trip with a couple of other car guy friends (one in a 1960 Alfa Romeo Giulietta, the other in a 1965 Porsche 356C) to Elkharlt Lake, WI for the July vintage races last Summer... about 700 miles over back roads that weekend... it was a blast.
The 230SL is as close to a Mercedes 'sports car' (in that 1960s sort of way) as I have found... It seems to drive like an Alfa, but it's got all the reliability and robustness of a Mercedes. What’s not to like?
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Welcome Dave to our forum! Great story and nice pictures. As you may already know you found a great comunity having the same passion about this fine car as you and your friends have. I'm sure you will tell your frrends about this great site of ours and the massive information that can be found here to help us keep our Pagoda running :)
Happy motoring always!
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Welcome Dave, nice to see your in the right group.
They have very big Salmon your way :o I can see them lying in the field in the background. :D :D :D
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Thank you gentlemen for th nice welcome... I'll try to add more photos of my car in the 'photo gallery' section of the forum, and some of the cars (and owners) I get together with here in Minneapolis.
I LOVE the international nature of this community, in my daily work I've sent a couple of W113s to new owners in Europe... so many of them came to the states (North America in general I think, quite a few to Canada) when they were new, but now many are going back to Germany, the Netherlands, etc. I'm amazed at the market in Europe, good cars demand big money.
Of course, I just put my car away in a warehouse for the next 6-7 months... so sad about that :(
DT
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azcarguy
Welcome --- very interesting that you are looking at the "Yikes" car --- looks like a massive amount of $$ and work has gone into it and I read that you have investigated it in detail. Good Luck.
Panzer82,
Welcome --- sounds like you really know these cars and clubs! I can only assume you maybe in the international shipping business?
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Welcome aboard Panzer,
Good luck with the SL and SL Market Newsletter. Say "hello" to my good friend John Olson for me. Here's a pic of Johns 300SL and my SLK on a trip down in Kentucky some years back.
Joe Alexander (ja17)
Blacklick, Ohio
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Hi Joe,
John has mentioned the Blacklick meets to me... everey couple of years... heavy Pagoda focus, no?
There is a Startech deal in Cincinnati this Summer, I was thinking about attending, but it's the week after the vintage rally that I put together each year.. and while I'm not afraid to drive my 230 long distances... Minneapolis to Cincinnati, all highway driving, doesn't seem like any fun... so I'm not sure I'm going to make it.. but a Blacklick event would be of great interest to me.
DT
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Hello everyone. I'm a car and track nut and I see that I am in good company on this board.
My mother has given me her beautiful red 1971 Mercedes 280SL. As a car nut, I was the natural child to get this wonderful gift.
My mother always loved the Mercedes SL and in 1972 my father purchased a lightly used specimen for her. The story goes that he took her out to dinner on her birthday and my father had arranged for the car to be parked in front of the restaurant. When my mother remarked that it was the car that she loved, my father simply handed her the keys. Very slick. And so it was this car joined my family in 1972 where it will continue until I can no longer take care of it.
I grew up with this car. I drove this car to high school year round. I LOVE this car.
Unfortunately the car hasn’t been out of the garage in about 5 years. A few years ago I was going to take my wife out and realized that the car could not engage any gears.
I took my trailer to my mother’s house with the intent of installing a fresh battery and getting the transmission working again so that I could get it out of the garage (it was stuck in park). After a few hours of work on the shift linkage I managed to get it running again and trailered the car back to Cambridge, MA where we live. I should point out that it was the TECHNICAL MANUAL on this site that gave me great guidance in getting into the shift linkage. THANK YOU.
Father Time had taken its toll as did a chipmunk that must have been living in the engine compartment but moved on (all the nuts were shelled and very dry). In addition to needing the shift linkage fixed better, the car is leaking coolant. The poor little Mercedes needs some help. I love to tinker and while I’m not a great mechanic, I like to figure stuff out and fix them myself or at least until I get to the point
where I break something badly or need pro help. I’m thinking some gaskets are bad and that the car might need the water pump replaced. I’ll of course change
all the fluids and ignition components and hopefully it will run right again. It ran quite nicely for many years and it will again,….for the next 92,000 miles!!!
WINTER PROJECT! I’m very excited.
I look forward to participating here for years to come. This 280SL has been incredibly special to me as it is to my mother. I haven't drive this car regularly since 1984 and it just feels so right to have it in my possession now. I will get this baby clean and mechanically sound again in time for some top down driving next Spring!
(http://coochas.com/pics/280SL1.jpg)
(http://coochas.com/pics/280SL2.jpg)
(http://coochas.com/pics/280SL3.jpg)
(http://coochas.com/pics/280SL4.jpg)
(http://coochas.com/pics/280SL5.jpg)
(http://coochas.com/pics/280SL6.jpg)
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Coochas - very nice, great story. Welcome to the group!! We stand at the ready to assist.
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Coochas - very nice, great story. Welcome to the group!! We stand at the ready to assist.
[/quote
Thanks!
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Great story Coochas and welcome to the Forum. Your SL looks to be in great shape we will look forward to hearing of your progress on getting her back on the road again.
John
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Thanks John! Despite the coolant leak, I just drove it around a few blocks. Ahhhhhhh. Tomorrow I'm putting it up on jack stands and will start inspecting what's going on.
It looks like the coolant is coming from the water pump and mainly AFTER the car is turned off. I'm wondering if the gasket simply dried out since it sat idle for 5-6 years. I'll probably start a separate thread detailing my progress.
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Hi Coochas, welcome to the forum. Great story and a very nice looking car! Happy travels always! you are properly right the water pump gasket is most likely dried up over the years, I would start there to see if a new gasket will stop the leak. Good luck.
If you need help don't be afread to ask, there are very knowledgeable individuals on this forum that are willing to lend a helping hand.
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Welcome,
Looks like a very nice 280SL!
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Thanks Rolf and ja17.
I put the car up on stands this morning and drained the coolant. I spend about 2 hours cleaning off grease that was 1/2 inch thick in some places. Wow.
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Hi Bob, it's Barry Dorr in Carlsbad. I have a '67 250SL that my mother bought in 1976. Largely with Jon Bernardi's (Jonny B) help, I'm doing a leisurely rolling restoration of the car (suspension and brakes 2012, engine 2013, dash and heater core currently...) In addition to this great website, we have a small group of local pagoda owners that get together informally throughout the year. It's a great community and I just wanted to say "welcome." - Barry
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Just read Coochas' story of his car ... I wonder how many of our W113s were similar "hand-me-downs."
My car, like yours, was purchased slightly used for my mother. It's a 1967 230SL that my parents purchased from the local Mercedes dealer in Long Beach, Calif., in January 1970. She adored the car and made frequent trips from Southern California to Las Vegas with her best friend. It was always garaged and well cared-for.
A decade later, I was just out of college and living in Grants Pass, Ore., when my parents decided to sell the car. I always loved it. I had washed it from the age of 13. I had driven it to the prom. I persuaded my parents to sell it to me for $10,000, at a rate of $125 a month. One of the smartest purchases I ever made!
I drove it for a couple of years in Oregon, but eventually drove it back down to Southern California and put it in storage while my career as a journalist took me to Portland; Juneau, Alaska; and finally Detroit. I finally had the SL shipped to Ann Arbor, Mich., where I put it in storage again while taking it out for a drive now and then. By this time, it needed some work, and by the time I had saved enough money, I got some engine work done and had it resprayed. Then I left journalism and moved to Finland to take a job as a speechwriter at Nokia, but the car had to stay behind. Finally, after moving to The Netherlands for another job in 2011, I decided I wasn't getting any younger, and it was time to complete the restoration and enjoy the car. Fortunately, there is a shop nearby that specializes in '50s and '60s SLs, and they crew there did a great job getting the car back in like-new shape.
My only regret is my mother died last year before getting a chance to ride in her fully restored SL. She would have loved riding in it again, but at least she knew it was still in the family and in good hands. I had it appraised for insurance purposes last year at EUR 80,000. Not a bad investment, though I'm not sure I will ever sell it. I consider it a family heirloom. :)
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That's a nice story Brian. I'm sorry for your loss. Apparently both of our mothers shared excellent taste in autos!
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Fantastic story Brian and thanks for sharing it with us!
Welcome to the Pagoda SL Group
Do post some photographs of your treasure and happy Pagoda travels always.
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Hi Coochas... glad you'll be the next steward of that car, always good to keep them in the family. You didn't take any photos of the car when you were back in high school did you... those kinds of old photos are always fun. I have some of some of the old cars we had when I was growing up, always fun to look at those.
Re: your water pump... I took a 700 +/- round trip drive from Minneapolis to Elkhart Lake, WI last year, to the vintage races at Road America. When I went out to my car the next day I saw a huge pool of coolant underneath. Alas, the water pump had finally given out and spewed fluid all over my garage floor... I replaced it, it was the original pump for my 1965 230SL, pretty incredible... and really nice of the car to decide to start leaking fluid once it was parked in my garage after a 7 hour drive back from the racetrack! The water pump wasn't too expensive, although it requires removing the hood and fan for replacement.
Good luck with your car... looks great. The orange 911 doesn't look bad either (I just sold my kiln red '84 911 last year...)
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Hello
I am Trevor of Essex, Connecticut. I am in the process of performing a complete overhaul on a client's 1963 230SL engine and I have found that the people here are knowledgeable and helpful.
I have a road racing background SCCA, Grand AM, and work in the world of marketing, coaching and training for auto manufacturers. I recently took over the running of my family's foreign car repair shop and with it came this 230SL project. I race karts as well and build t-karts (www.grasspass.org) and I am half way through building a 1987 Mercedes 190E-16 valve track day car.
I am excited to be able to share pictures of the rebuild which I will do in a thread in the General Discussion area.
Thanks for the great forum.
Yours,
Trevor
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Welcome to our Pagoda SL Group Trevor, You will find super people here and good luck with your projects !
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Welcome! We look forward to hearing about your progress and helping where we can.
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will post pics, just have to figure out where on the site is appropriate. In my introduction I said 71k miles, it actually has 71 thousand kilometers or 40 some thousand miles. It is a euro car
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yes, lots of trucks and rednecks here and it takes months to get the dirt and pebbles off the road in spring so a nice car has a short window to drive. We have had many days over 40 degrees this winter and most of the lower 48 states are colder. Amarillo had a -6 wind chill last week and we were +40. Warmest winter I can remember
A buddy in the bush has an amg ML 6.3 he leaves in my hangar as a town car. I just cant warm up to the Mercedes suv's, but I do like the unimog and the g-wagen is interesting if a real military rig.
My lawyer showed up with a new cayenne when they came out and wanted a picture with my racing 930 and my other 911's. I just cant seem to relate to the cayenne a Porsche. Not a purist or snob mind you, just don't get it
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Hello my name is Bob. I am a car guy with a very understanding wife. I have a 1968 280SL which I bought in 1981 in Denver. I drove the car for years without doing much to it. 3 or 4 years ago I was having some fuel issues and had the FI pump pulled and sent it in for rebuild it, when it was reinstalled it started and ran great but would not warm start. I would let it set for an hour or so and it would fire right up. I know there is a lot of information on the forum about warm start issues. This spring I am anxious to get her going and back on the road. I have had my hands full and my attention directed to other projects the past couple of years but this is the year. In addition to the Pagoda I have a 280GE, a G320 2 diesel Unimogs, several gas Unimogs, a 911 and a few other weird European utility vehicles. I appreciate all of the wisdom and advice on the forum and look forward to being more involved. All I have right now is this crummy cell phone photo. I will get some better photos once I get it running.
Bob
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Welcome aboard Bob, a nice pair of cars. I have been trying to convince a guy to part with a 911s for years that just sits in ayard where I get my Pagoda work done.
Garry
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Hello,
I just joined the Pagoda SL Group and thought I would post an introduction. Three days ago I purchased a '66 230sl. It is my first Pagoda, but I've admired them since I was a child living in Augsburg. I live in Idaho and look forward to connecting with others who might belong to regional or local *gasp* vintage Mercedes clubs.
Although I am new to the Pagoda, I have owned numerous air-cooled Volkswagens (mostly busses, and beetles, but a few Karman Ghia convertibles too) and so turning wrenches has long been a passion.
I look forward to my membership here.
--buspilot
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Welcome buspilot,
You'll find a lot of friends and help here. Just speak up when you have any questions.
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Buspilot,
Congrats on your Pagoda acquisition. You will enjoy your Full Membership --- As you have probably noticed, there are incredibly knowledgeable folks here and many of them are very generous with their expertise. When you have a chance, please post some photos.
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Welcom Buspilot to the Group.
There are many here with ‘other’ collectable cars’ as you will see from the signature blocks of many.
Enjoy the full use of the forum, a welcome package will no doubt be in the mail to you in the near future.
Garry
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Hello Buspilot,
Welcome to our Pagoda SL Group as mentioned above you will find many helpful and knowledgeable folks here to lend a helping hand when you start turning wrenches on your new find :) Mind you, your Pagoda engine is a bit more complex to work on then the VW air-cooled engines that you are used to :)
Nice to see a newcomer like yourself come in as a Full Member to our Group, you obviously made your research well.
Enjoy your new find and always safe travels :)
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Good day everyone; I live in montreal and I came across this site/forum after seeing a 70' 280SL for sale; I fell in love with the car the moment I saw it but I have no clue how much it is worth; seller is asking for 75000CAD and car has only 30k km, that's what they claim anyway but I have to investigate further.
It would be great if someone can help me out getting as much information from chassis# 113 044 12 014049; I am open for suggestions and useful tips
B.regards
Rafik
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Rafik,
Welcome. There is a massive amount of information here about checking these cars --- so much so, that some would probably never purchase a car if looking for perfection. Here is one link within the Technical Manual about buying a Pagoda.
http://www.sl113.org/wiki/Buying/PrepurchaseEvaluation
Have a wander around the tech manual and you will find more information.
30,000 KM is of course possible, but highly suspect. If true, it would be shockingly impressive if preserved. You also have several members and an expert in your area who know these cars well.
Best of luck in your search!
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Thanks Kampala; I will definitely be looking at all the car details using the provided link.
Can you provide contacts for the members and experts in my area so I can have them look at at it too.
I wasn't able to find the VIN in the registry so I guess the owner didn't know about this site; is there a way to know what options and colors came originally in this car from production?
About the mileage; it's hard to tell if it's true since the cluster has only 5 digits for the mileage; unless there's a another way to tell.
B.regards
Rafik
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Thanks Kampala; I will definitely be looking at all the car details using the provided link.
Can you provide contacts for the members and experts in my area so I can have them look at at it too.
I wasn't able to find the VIN in the registry so I guess the owner didn't know about this site; is there a way to know what options and colors came originally in this car from production?
About the mileage; it's hard to tell if it's true since the cluster has only 5 digits for the mileage; unless there's a another way to tell.
B.regards
Rafik
Welcome to the Pagoda world Rafik!
This site is an invaluable source of info and advice.
I'm close to Quebec city.
In Montreal, check out Eurowa, on St-Jacques street.
Franz was being trained by MB from when he was 16. He's in his late 50's now and knows his stuff.
A bit of a scruffy character type of guy, but he's good.
Enjoy your car!
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Rafik,
I am no expert. This site will provide you with much information as it has helped many of us.
Some color and option information can be figured out based on the "plate" under the hood/bonnet on the Left side of the car near the washer bottle. This plate only carries some of the information, including color, but not all. This is not the VIN plate.
http://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/BodyandPaintNumberPlate
To get FULL option information you will need to see if the seller has the DATA CARD, or the "owner" can request a data card from the Mercedes Classic Center (Irvine California, Tom Hanson) at no-cost and the information is provided usually within a couple of days by email. In many cases, folks get this after they own the car. Some cars still have their original data cards with the documents.
http://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/Start
Not all owners include their vehicles in the registry on this site -- so it's not an indication if the seller was a member or not.
Odometer readings will need to be judged based on many factors, least of which will be what the odometer reads as these can be non-functional or disconnected.
best of luck,
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Hello Rafik,
Welcome to the Pagoda SL Group both Gentleman above have provided you with excellent advise as far as the research on this car is concerned. When I purchased my car in May 2013 (first saw her in March 2013) I took two months to truly research the background of my car as well as inspected the car (basically on all of the points mentioned above).
When the seller named his price I paid it, his price was lower then what the car was actually worth based upon the condition of the car. You should know that the price of the 280SL has more then doubled since Jan 2013. I assume the seller of the car you are looking at knows this, thus he is asking $70K for the car.
It would help if you can get the background for the car from the seller as well as the data card, only he can request it with proof of ownership. Further I would suggest you get some photographs and post them here so we can have a closer look to help you further in your decision proccess. Now it is important that someone with mechanical knowlageble (unless you are that individual) check out the mechanical condition. This will bring to light additional funds you have to come up with after purchase to put the car on the road. You mentioned that you saw the car, I don't know if you saw the car in person or on the Internet. If the later is the case, you can find someone here that can look at the car to give you feedback unless you like to take a trip to the car and do that yourself.
If you like you can have a look at my car by clicking on my homepage link, remember I mentioned the price doubled since Jan. 2013 and my car if I would sell it (and I am not) would get over $80K for it. In September 2013 I was in Williamsburg, Verginia for the 50 year Pagoda celebrations some fellow from Texas offers me $70k and an air ticket home, I turned him down of course.
Lastly as an ex Montrealer, I like to welcome you and wish you success in your hunt for the car.
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Hi Rafik,
I'm in Montreal and could give you a hand. Call me at 514-992-2146
As others have said, in order to get additional information and validation, you should (a) get the data card and (b) ask the seller for evidence that the car has 30K miles. This should be in the form of detailed records from original purchase. If he doesn't have that, then the car might have 30K miles; 130K miles, 230K miles...etc. I think a 30K mile car would be pretty easy to spot. I also think it's extremely unlikely. And from that, if it turns out the seller is giving you suspect information, it would warrant being especially careful.
Meyer
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Rafik,
My neighbour, who's also into cars, had mentioned to me last week he saw a 280SL advertised for $75K. I expect it's the same car. I called him to find out where he saw the ad and he pointed me to this:
http://www.kijiji.ca/v-autos-camions/ville-de-montreal/1970-mercedes-benz-sl-class/1080863852?enableSearchNavigationFlag=true
For those interested, there are pictures. It does not look like an original 30K km car. Depending on what it looks like underneath and what shape the engine is in, this car might be worth half what they're asking.
Meyer
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Just purchased a 1966 230 SL, Blue/Parchment combo. I have been appreciating the Pagoda for number of years but just started looking for my own about 18 months ago. Finally found a nice, low mileage (72K), no rust car. Still needs lots of tlc but it looks to be a fairly solid base to start from. The forum on the hwat to look for when purchasing was very helpful. I had a pre-inspection done and then some maintenance work done right after purchase but before I shipped to Chicago. Got it off the trailer and 5 miles in it breaks down! Welcome to the world of classics. Turns out the alternator/voltage regulator has issues. Looking forward to getting it on the road then starting a rolling restoration. Curious if anyone has recommendations on order (engine/engine bay, body/paint or interior?)
My prior automotive experience was in taking a 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit and gutting it for a weekend SCCA racer (new engine/suspension/sway bars/new interior, etc) but that was pre-kids. This will be my foray back into getting my own hands dirty vs. dropping the car off at the mechanic.
Looking forward to learning more on the boards here.
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Hello, Cogsworth33
Welcome to our Pagoda SL Group, you did everything right ... Looked for a car that meet your requirements, checked our pre-purchase check list, and had the car pre-inspected. Well done.
You will naturally find several issues that need to be addressed before you can undertake longer road trips. You can be sure of two items...
1) once you have located and corrected all issues your car will be very reliable
And
2) whatever funds you put into the car will not be wasted your car will not deprichiate like a modern car will (mine doubled in price since purchase in 2013 and I did very much what you have done in finding the car and then checking it out).
You will find many helpful members here, as far as upgrading the car further like engine bay paint etc. this all depends how much you wish to invest and how you wish to use your car like ... A driver or a show car. A motor complete inspection / rebuild and engine bay refurbish can run you $15K to $20K or more all depending what is found during the motor / transmission inspection.
Most of us find or found the best car we could afford, then do small projects as time goes on.
Good luck and happy travels always!
BTW. Your exterior color is close to mine, you will get a lot of comments like "like the color" :)
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Cogsworth, indeed welcome to the group.
Familiarize yourself with the "search" tab. There is a lot of information out there to answer the questions you have posed.
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Robert,
Welcome! Whereabouts in IL are you? I'm in the western burbs of Chicago. there's a couple more of us lurking around too.
Jeff
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Hi everybody,
Im Kurt and I live in Norway. We just bought a 1969 model 280 SL, manual gear that was importet to Norway in 1969. The car is in silver with red interior. The car needs some work "here and there" and our plans are to strip it down and bring her back into best possible condition.
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Welcome Kurt to our Pagoda SL Group as you may know you will find many helpful members here to provide tips and help during your strip down and rebuild. Good Luck with everything.
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Kurt, welcome to the group! Great color combination, as Dieter has typed, there is a lot of information on the site to assist, and a lot of folks ready to help too.
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Hello all, I just signed on as a full member. I own a 1967 250 SL, late model 4 spd ,originally sold somewhere in France. It's Horizon Blue with dark blue tex and just 121,000 kilometers on the odo. No side markers and the euro headlights with yellow bulbs. It came to the US in the early 80's.I have owned her for over 25 years. Before that I had an early 250 SL that had rust all over but drove like a tiger. That's how I got hooked.
I have never had to do any work on the car at all, just normal maintenance.
Since de-garaging it this spring I have been driving it every weekend.
I want spiff things up a bit on the old girl.
New soft top, new carpets and maybe new seat covers, maybe a new fire wall material?
My soft top is pretty rough and my carpets are worn. But my seat covers are the old style MB tex, a very smooth texture unlike the grainy texture of the newer tex. They are worn but not ripped anywhere. If I do it I will go to navy leather seat covers. My question is should I preserve the originals because they are original or not even if I don't love them ? I had blue canvas seat covers made with the silver star logo to cover them but they are getting old.
It's the same question on the firewall. Mine is original but looks old and dirty but no tears of missing pieces.
All the 113's I see for sale seem to have these new replacements.
I'm happy to be a member of this forum with such knowledgeable people. And look forward to being a part.
thanks
jz
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Hi JZ,
Welcome to the Group. You appear to have only signed in as an Associate Member and not a Full Member. Associate members are given access to most parts of the Tech Manual but not full access nor do Associates receive the Pagoda World now published twice yearly nor Pagoda Notes.
To be a Full membership you need to click on “Join as Full Member” and go through the process paying the paultyr fee of $30 p.a. that helps the Group defray the cost of incorporation, insurance for the committee, hosting costs for the Forum and the publication of Pagoda World.
We would love to see you as a Full Member.
Garry
Membership Administrator
‘other than Americas'
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My name is Roy and I live in Inman, SC near Greenville / Spartanburg. About 1.5 years ago I bought a 1963 230SL VIN 11304210000211.
The car was imported in 1967, and had the side marker lights added. The original owner supposedly kept the car until 1997 then sold it.
White with red interior. 4 Speed Manual. Very clean and runs well. Interior has been redone, engine rebuilt, and suspension components replaced.
I am supposedly the 3rd owner, but am not too concerned about that. As seen by the VIN number, this is one of the early production models.
This is not my first MB and probably not my last. I do most of the work myself, but there are things I do not wish to undertake.
One of the issues I have is rust holes in the rear frame. I have taken the car to Bud's Benz in GA and am waiting for a quote on the frame repair. Patch panels are required along with some other slight fabrication. The front frame rails have been slightly collapsed due to someone jacking the car up on the floor pan. These require welding. If anyone out there knows another location in the SE that is capable of doing this type of work correctly, let me know. I have been looking over the forums and tech manuals and have found them to be very informative. I am in the process of fixing the little things such as oil leaks, leaking rear wheel cylinder, leaking steering box and other minor items. Thanks to everyone for their willingness to help out and respond to questions.
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Welcome to the Pagoda SL Group nice car and detailed introduction, your Full Membership will provide access to all areas of our Tech Manual and you will find helping hands from other members here.
Happy and safe trails
BTW. Our PUB 2015 will take place Sept 12 and 13 this year. You can read all about it in our "Event" area. I mention this since this event only takes place every two years and in case you can make it. It would give you an opertunety to meet some of our members and perhaps answer some of the questions you might have.
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I can only agree fully with Rolf Dieter that if you are planning on maintaining it was ourself then you need full access to the Tech Manual that has the 'linkage tour' to help you keep the car at peak performance and this is only accessible to full members.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Gary, I signed up as a full member and paid by Amex.
Didn't go thru?
Should I redo?
Pls advise.
jz
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Zac,
PM Sent
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Hey all,
my name is Steve and i live in Australia and whilst I don't own one at the moment, one day I'd love either a 230/250/280SL. So I figure that this would be the ideal place to start, I'm keeping an eye out for something that needs a lot of work (full resto.).
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Hello Steve,
Welcome to our Pagoda SL Group, you have come to the right place, there are some great threads for you to read up on from fellow members that have restored one of the three available models. Should you become a full member then you will have full access to our Technical Manual as well as receive two (2) Pagoda World Magazines each year.
Happy Hunting to find the car you love.
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Hi everyone, not sure how everyone can keep up with newbies arriving every day but I'm here at last and not a moment too soon. I have a 280 SL 1970 in the wings ready to be salivated on soon.
Clearly I'll be heading directly to all the 280 SL topics to get a heads up on owning this beaut but if anyone wants to pass on info or just say hi, you're all welcome.
Looking for advise on;
Importing, first registration, vat/duty, inspection and service/maintenance,
Thanks in advance
Bo
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Hi and welcome to the Group.
There is a wealth of information here between the members and the Tech Manual which as an Associate Member you will be only to partially access. Ful Members get access to the full Tech Manual and Pagoda Notes access as well the Pagoda World magazinel so you may want to think about joining as a Full Member sometime in the future. Especally if you are planning on doing the daily maintenance of your car and will need access to the Linkage Tour for tuning and setting the fuel/air mixtures correctly.
There are a couple of members un UK that have done importing and am sure can provide advice to ease the entry of your car.
Good Luck
Garry
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Hello Bo and welcome to the Pagoda SL Group
As Garry mentioned there are several Members here from the UK, if you go to our "Car Registry" you can sort that data base by any of the headings or Pagoda Model sizes. It is a very handy tool to find out Fellow Members near you. I forget if you can access and/or sort this data base unless you are a Full Member. Anyway, for just slightly over $0.08 U.S. Cents/day that is all your Full Membership will set you back you will have full access to everything that surly will benefit you during your resturation project.
Good luck with your project, as you may have already noted you will find many helping hands around here that have some of the fun you have in front of you behind them :)
Post some pictures of your car, or start a project thread were you can share your resturation experiances with others and get help and tips when you need it ... I will fetch the "Car Regustry" link for you and add it below. When I listed my car info in the Regustry and sorted the data base by VIN number I found that there is a 280SL near me in Michigan that rolled off the assembly line 3 cars behind mine, perhaps you find something similar, it sure made my day when I sorted the data base.
Here is the link ====>>>> http://www.sl113.org/car-registry.html
Edit:- added the Car Registry link
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Bo 90 Welcome,
Don't get hung up on only 280SL posts, as most of the topics are relevant to all three variants of Pagoda.
Have a background read of the Technical Manual and information on the SEARCH function, and you will quickly see that most topics have been covered over the years.
Have fun,
Good luck with the car
Paul
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Thank you
My SL280 ownership has turned into a disaster.
I've been sucked into a fraudulent web site.
I am struggling to come to terms with it
www.noriscars.com
AVOID *****FRAUD*****
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Hi All, My name is Taam and I live in Denmark. I have recently bought a 1964 230SL which I have been dreaming of buying for many years and finally had the means and courage to buy it. The car itself is in great shape with minor details which will need doing and keep me busy in the winter months.
I am looking forward to being part of this great community!
Regards,
Taam
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Taam,
Welcome to the group! We will all be glad to assist where we can with those "winter projects"
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I have had my 230SL for 35 years. It had 3 owners in Germany before immigrating to the US. I'm the second owner over here. No rust, no restoration, no dings or dents. Original paint. Only upgrade has been new carpet. VIN#. 000290. (Confession: paint is not quite as good as it appears in the photo!)
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Efacewin,
Welcome! You have a very early w113. I know many here would appreciate some detail photos particularly since yours is a very early car.
You've owned your Pagoda for 35 years --- what is the recent catalyst that has prompted you to join this group now? Probably an interesting story.
Great to have a longtime owner.
Best,
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In the late 1970s, I became interested in the SLs. My brother saw this one on the street in Asheville, NC and asked about it. The owner was going thru a divorce and needed to sell it. I got his car and he later got back together with his wife! (he never asked for his car back)
The car has led a very leisurely life. Probably always been garaged. I hate to admit it, but I let it sit untouched for 10 years. Just recently got it back on the road. It may be my imagination, but it appears to get more attention when I drive it now than it did back before its long hibernation.
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I just got my 1964 230SL this past weekend at an auction! Merry early Christmas to me (in Georgia)! It is light beige? exterior with red leather interior, new black soft top. It no longer has the hard top. It is from France - ROYAL-ELYSSES_CH. F. DELECROIX originally, sold at Mercedes-Benz - Agence Le Mans in June of 1964. Has a Nardi Torino wood wheel (would prefer original Mercedes wheel). Missing visors (would love to know where to get red ones),and cigarette cover is black, not red. Red leather seat covers will need replacing eventually, still comfortable though, just dirty and worn, original. In very good condition. Needs some engine work, which my husband is going to do for me, but I drove it home a few miles safely. I've always loved these. Would have liked the jumpseat, but it is so pretty!
Would like parts sites, please.
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Wow! Looks like a beauty! Enjoy! The leather interior looks to have an excellent patina, at least what can be seen. You may want to keep it as originality/patina counts for a lot these days. Look thoroughly over the forum site as it is invaluable for 113 owners, esp. newer ones. Don't make changes too quickly and above all, drive it! There are a couple of hardtops on craigslist in the Philadelphia area if you want one. Nice to have. Good luck! Jon
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Thanks. I'm going to try to just clean the seats first.
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MMP,
Welcome to the Group.
There is a list of suppliers in our Technical Manual http://www.sl113.org/wiki/Suppliers/Start
This is strictly a list of suppliers and does not carry any group endorsement but if you are looking for particular items do a search as often members will make comment on Suppliers performance under Vendor and eBay experiences http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?board=21.0
Enjoy the site, maybe one day when members give you some good advice and save you lots of $$, you may think it is worth the extra few dollars to help operate this site and also then receive Pagoda World Magazines and Pagoda Notes as well as having full Tech Manual access ;D
Thats my plug as Membership Administrator.
Garry
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I plan on joining as a full member. Too lazy to go grab the card right now. Thanks, Garry!
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Welcome to the group! I will join the chorus about the red leather seat covers. You will be amazed at what some tender loving care can do for the leather. I am a bit biased as I have a 280 SL with the red leather and it has some "patina" but is overall very nice. I did need to replace the seat pads, and that was well worth the trouble. Also, being a French car, there are some fun (and rare) details, most notable are the amber back up lights instead of clear.
Indeed, these are fun and enjoyable cars.
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Thanks, Johnny. I am very excited about learning more about my car. p.s. Mine doesn't have the amber back up lights anymore. Mine are all red with a small bottom/middle clear lens.
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mmp800,
You mention your black covered cigarette cover. FYI: I believe some of the early cars had black instead of matching. Others can chime in on if this is correct and what the cutoff was.
Also, you mention you are looking for red sun visors, just so you know, the car did not have red sun visors when new.
I don't know if you care or don't care about originality, I simply want to make sure that if you do, you should research before making any assumptions.
You car looks like it has not been "messed" with.
Enjoy the ride !
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I bought my car without visors so I don't know what color I should put in them. Any help as to what was original would be appreciated. Thank you for the info about the cigarette case. I know so I don't know what the original color was. Thank you!
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Hi Im Jess, Ive been in love with the Pagoda design for many a year and finally been able to afford one. Its a 1970, silver, 280 sl beauty that needs some love and affection, which is why I cant wait to get stuck in and turn this into my dream car.
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Jess,
Welcome! You have found the right spot for information, assistance, etc. for these wonderful cars.
Of course, we all like to see pictures, so post some to show us your new treasure.
Happy Holidays.
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Hello All, Just wanted to say that I am proud to be part of this group and have learned a lot in the short time I have been on. I am actually a trained ASE certified technician but as with anything else, you also need to learn the idiosyncrasies of particular makes and models in order to successfully repair them. This group has been invaluable! My car is a 1968 (08/1967) 250SL. 74k miles. Manual trans, Silver Grey Metallic (180), with black leather interior. I inherited it from my Father who passed on two and a half years ago. I remember going with him to look at purchasing it when I was about 10. (30 years ago). I took possession of it last year when my Mother also passed. It had not been driven in about 7 years or started for at least 3. My Father was diabetic and no longer able to drive. He would start it from time to time but thats about it. Not taking any chances I had it flat bedded to my place after the estate was settled and promptly went to work changing all the fluids and draining the fuel tank. The fuel tank was pristine. My father would always add Sta-bil to the gas.. One week in I had it up and running. My first purchase for it was a set of radial tires to replace the rotten BIAS PLY tires that were on it!! The time sitting has taken its toll. The heater core fell apart and dumped coolant all over the carpet and stained those pricey anthracite rubber mats. I removed the sheepskin seat covers and found the leather to be rotten and moldy. Those are now fixed and the car is on the up and up. Lots of projects planned and a lot already completed. I even installed a new soft top myself, and it actually turned out great! Better than I would have thought!
Well I have probably rambled on long enough. See you all on the forums!
;) Tyler
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Looking really good Tyler. Great color wish mine was that color.Where did you get the seat covers from?
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Thanks! I got them from World Uph. They don't match at all. You'd think black is black but apparently not. It may be the rest of the leather has darkened over time. I'm going to live with it for now but probably do the rest of the interior at some point or if I happen to come across some nice old patina'd seats.
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Tyler,
Welcome --- good that you introduced yourself as I was about to ask why you have such good knowledge of the Pagoda and it's Mechanical. Now it makes sense. You seem to have very good grasp on the inner workings of these cars based on your posts. Keep it up --- it's appreciated.
Best,
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Welcome to the Group.
As Qz said it was a bit intriguing to see some of your early posts and there was a bit of behind the scene chatter on what your background must be. Its great to have another well versed person on site that provides assistance to members, most who like myself have little or no mechanical background and this Forum and the Tech Manual make it possible to maintain the Pagoda in the correct manner.
Normally I would say feel free to ask questions but in this case feel free to answer questions may be more appropriate.
Maybe at PUB, where ever that may be, we will catch up.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Thanks Garry! I'm usually the kind of person who asks questions as a last resort. Thats my stubbornness gene I got from my Dad. 90% of the time my questions have been answered by simply doing a search on the site. So I guess you can say I have asked questions in an indirect way. ;) I enjoy sharing knowledge and also like seeing people working on their own cars. So its kind of a win-win for me. I guess what I forgot to put in my introduction is that I have always helped my Dad with this car so I have 30 years worth of tinkering on it stored in my head.
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Hello Everyone,
I recently purchased a pagoda 280sl about a month ago. The car had been sitting outside for 20 years and is in pretty bad shape. Registration and title show it's a 1967 sl280. Last five digits of vin are 00043. Is this number 43 out of 143 built in 67'? Based ofF of the current values of these cars i figured it was worth purchasing and restoring. Looking forward to learning more about the pagoda.
Dave
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Dave, a hearty welcome to our group. There is a wealth of information on this site, as well as the individuals that contribute, that can guide you to do almost anything with your car, depending on how mechanically inclined you are. Hopefully your new treasure is not in too bad shape as they can swallow money pretty well. We all love photos so start posting some pictures.
Your VIN, if it is a 280SL, indicates it was built in December of '67. Is it a Euro 280SL (hard door pockets, no side marker lights etc). There were over 200 280SL's built in '67. Check the Tech Manual for more infor.
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I have attached a few photos of my pagoda
1967 280sl
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Welcome Dave, I am fairly new to this site as well. Lots of great info and knowledgeable peeps here. Looks like indeed you have a euro model. Side reflectors were added sometime later on. Still has the kmh speedometer in it! Will be a fun project.
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Looks like a great project to start on. It actually looks better from the interior than mine did. Outs side should come out nice with a few coats of paint.
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Hi
My name is Breandan. I have been an associate member for a few years and have used this site prior to my purchase to get good common sense advice on what to look for and what to avoid. Since buying a 1969 US model 280 sl in November 2013 I have used the site extensively to research the ever fascinating world of pagoda ownership.
The car was originally bought in Hyannis, Cape Cod and its second owner lived in the same area. In fact the car remained in Cape Cod until 1990 until it moved with its english owners to the UK. The fourth owner brought the car to Spain and when he retired back to the UK due to ill health I bought the car. Since I live in Dublin. Ireland I asked a mechanic I know to fly over to check out the car prior to purchase. He gave it the thumbs up and the car lives in Ireland now.
My pagoda is a light ivory with black interior. It is largely original (carpets, panels, engine, tools) and has many of the original manuals and books etc. It has been recommissioned after little use prior my ownership. The gearbox was the largest item that needed to be replaced. I have replaced the US bumpers which had some surface rust with euro bumpers. The car itself appears to have very little rust and whats there has been treated. I use it once a week (in dry weather only) throughout the year and more frequently in the summer. In Ireland this requires an accurate weather app!!! A fantastic comfortable drive and with my favourite jazz music playing in the background becomes a light ivory time machine!
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Welcome to the group. We all stand at the ready for assistance, tips, hints, etc.
Nice looking Pagoda.
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That is a Nice car. I think its the colour mine should be. I plan to paint mine in the spring / early summer. Your car seems like its in very nice condition. Ive been a member for several months and have had lots of excellent advice. Ive also made some discoveries of my own. They are very fascinating cars.
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Thanks for comments Jonny and Pinder(?). And yes this site is like an encyclopaedia on the pagoda. Yes the light ivory does look well. It's a definitely a period colour and looks well with the lines of the car and chrome etc. A small detail is that the dash board looks very well in light Ivory. I attached a couple of other photos. The pagoda looks good from any angle!
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Welcome Taam, Efacewin, Jess, David and Breandan to the Pagoda SL Group!
Taam, we look forward to hear from you about your progress over the winter months on your 230 SL add some photos if you have a chance.
Efacewin, nice looking car your 230 SL, you must have some great stories to share with us about your drives with your Pagoda. We are always looking for great stories to share with our members. We issue a magazine twice a year I’m sure one or two of your stories may find there way into our Pagoda World Magazine. The paint does look okay to me. Glad you found our site, perhaps as time moves on you join us as a full member to gain access to more data about your car and you then will enjoy our high quality Pagoda World magazine that is issued 2 times a year now.
mmp800, Wow, another pretty 230SL and a new Lady member Welcome! we have a few more Lady members. As for parts, check out our Vendor Forum Area (link below). My recommendation would be to check out The Classic Centre and / or Buds I say this since I’ve been taken for a ride when ordering some parts (ordered a simple chrome ignition ring paid over $60 US for it and when it arrived it was pitted and used of course. Later in talking to the Classic Centre in California [Tom] sold me one for $16 US brand new - so be on guard). You have a nice car there and with your husbands help it will be a great car soon :) Thanks for joining our comity.
Link ——> http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?board=21.0
Jess, Sounds like you have great plans to make your 280 a Dream car. There is a shop in the London area should you need some mechanical work done (check out our Vendor area). Of course our site members as Jonny pointed out are here to help you as well. Post some photographs when you have a chance we love to see photos of all the cars.
Tyler, Sorry for your loss, you are a very lucky fellow to get something like your Pagoda from your Father. We are happy you found our Group no need to tell you that ours is a truly International Group and a great bunch of folks that always stand ready to help out a fellow member.
David, Looks like you have your work cut out for you on a 280 that was stored outside for 20 years. How anyone can do this storing it outside I mean (a barn find I can understand … outside what a shame). You should start a thread naming it (Restoring a car stored outside for 20 years) or something along those lines. Add pictures etc as you restore it. As Jonny pointed out in one of his posts
“We will all be glad to assist where we can with those winter projects” and “We all stand at the ready for assistance, tips, hints, etc.”
One day when you are joining the group as a Full Member, as so many Pagoda Owners do you will find that you have access to more valuable information that will save you a fist full of money and then some.
Breandan, You did exactly what I did … I found my car in March 2013 shortly after found this Pagoda SL Group site in all my research while inspecting my 1969 280SL The information I found on this site here as well as help from Members was extremely helpful to me then I purchased the car in May 2013 and became a Full Member here. There is no better source for less then 10 cents a day (representing the membership fee) that opens the doors to all of the information that is available on our site since its inception. We mail out to our full Members a great Pagoda World Magazines each year, it has been one in past years we will increase this to 2 per year staring in 2016 (Spring and Fall). The magazine contains great stories from our members, often Technical Data on our cars and great photographs. You found the best International site by now I’m sure you know that as well. Welcome again.
Dieter
PS. Tip, Find members near you or arrange meets for the summer. A great way to do it is “Check out the Members Tab above” once you click on it a member data base will open … Then Click on “Location” the data base will sort for you by location and you will see members near you. Or … if there are car shows in your area start a thread tell us about it and other members may join you there.
After all … in the end it’s all about People and you will meet some great ones when a bunch of us meet :)
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Hello. My name is Brendan and I live in Medford, MA. My Dad recently gave me his Red (signal red?) 1971 280SL. He bought and had it restored by Gernold Nissus from SL Tech around 1992. This was when Gernold was in Limerick ME. I've always loved the car and plan on restoring it again in the next few years. I have not had anytime to drive it but plan to this spring.
I just stumbled across this site and am enjoying its content. I'll get some pictures up soon.
Thanks,
Brendan
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Hello Brendan,
Welcome and Congradulations nice of your dad to let you have such a treasure. We look forward to see some photos and to hear further from you. You did stumble on the right group to lend a hand should yo need it ... All the best.
Dieter
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I recently enrolled in the Pagoda Group as an associate member and would like to introduce myself. My name is Ralph Neely and I divide my time about 40/60 between Birmingham, Alabama and Compiano, Italy. I own a dunkeloliv (dark green), 1969, model 280SL Coupe//Roadster, VIN number 113 044 – 10- 007 749 which also has a dark green soft top., beige leather interior, four speed stick shift transmission and Becker Grand Prix radio. My car is currently registered and garaged in Alabama.
I placed an order for my Pagoda in December, 1968, with the local Mercedes-Benz dealer in Birmingham under what was known at the time as a “Tourist Order.” I accepted delivery of the car at the Sindelfingen, Germany factory on February 12, 1969, and drove the car to Genoa, Italy where I was working at the time.
My work took me to London in June of 1969 and I drove the car over from Italy and kept it there for the one year allowed under the British temporary import law using German Zoll plates. I turned the car in for shipment from London to New Orleans in June of 1970 and registered it in Birmingham, Alabama after it arrived in late August. Over the years the car has been registered in Illinois as well as Alabama depending on my work location. Currently the odometer reads 48,000 miles.
The old girl sat up in various relatives’ garages at times over the years while I worked internationally. She runs fairly well for a 47 year old and draws a lot of stares when she is on the road. The car is completely original as delivered except that the current tires are blackwalls instead of whitewalls. There are some minor aging problems which I am looking after as I have time but she is a dependable ride and a beautiful machine.
I also drive a 2007 BMW 328XI four door sedan when in Birmingham and in Italy I drive a 2004 Toyota, Hilux 2.5 liter diesel pick up truck and a BMW 330 XD Coupe. I regretfully parted with my other German ride last summer, a BMW, R1200R motorcycle. At my age 4 wheels are better than two!
I have found that the volume of information available on the sl113 site is immense and covers almost every particular that one could want and I look forward to benefitting from the collective efforts of the group.
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Welcome, neelyrc...
Great to find an additional original owner...
You can make us very, very happy by scanning some of your very old, original photos of the car and then uploading them here!
Original details of engine bays, sticker placements etc would be wonderful... As would be 50 yr old holiday snaps of your family and the car...
Peter
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Hello Ralph,
Welcome to the Pagoda SL Group I can only echo Peter's words above how great it is to have you as an Original Owneras part of our group. And we look forward to seeing additional photos and stories of your adventures with this fine automobile.
This thread here is a very interesting thread if you have the time have a read thru it, you will find many interesting stories to read.
Happy and safe travels always.
Dieter
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Ralph, indeed welcome to the group!!
An original owner, wonderful! As Peter types, the original details are the kinds of things that are just priceless.
I will follow up with you separately for a potential article for Pagoda World.
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Welcome to the SL Group, Ralph. Hope we get the chance to see your car soon. As you may know, we have a drive event in Italy in September, though it is full right now.
Look forward to seeing more photos of your car, especially the engine bay.
Best,
Brian
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Thanks for the kind welcome messages. In the short term I will work on getting a few pictures together as Peter has mentioned. Most of my old hard copy photos are unorganized and in a big box in Italy. I may have a few in digital form on a computer in Italy and I can only access these when I am back in Italy in early summer.
Thanks again for the welcome.
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Lovely photograph...
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Ralph, welcome to the Forum. I too, am an original owner and it is great to see another join us. We were really smart guys back then weren't we? Best $7000 I ever spent:-) My story as well a few other original owners can be found in a back issue of "Pagoda Notes"
http://www.sl113.org/wiki/uploads/Restricted/PNv7i2US.pdf. Again, welcome and looking forward to reading your post and seeing more vintage photos.
John
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Thanks John, I read your story with great enjoyment. Wishing you many more miles of happy driving in your 280SL.
Ralph
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I am a new associate member. I just bought my first 280Sl at RM Auctions in Amelia Island a few weeks ago. I live in northern Ohio and plan to use it as much as possible, weather permistting. I am interested in the history of the car. If anyone has any info on previous owners I would appreciate the info.Thanks, Jim
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Jim,
Welcome to our Pagoda SL Group, you will find quite a few Full Members here from Ohio. You can see for yourself by clicking on Members above at the very top of this page, when the pull down pens up click on View Member List once the membership list opens you can sort it by Location once the membership list is sorted by location scroll down and click in Page 36 and 37 to view members in Ohio. Now I don't know if you can do this as an Associate Member, I hope you can, give it a try.
I recommend you remove the VIN number from your post (you can do this by modifying or editing your post). Posting photos may trigger someone to tell you that they have seen the car before or knew the previous owner. If your MB maintenance manual has no info for service records then I don't think you can do much unless you hire a good detective to trace back where the car came from and check dealerships in that area. The detective may use the ViN number to do this ~grin~ The better plan would be to find a good MB knowlageable mechanic and have him check your car front to back. That I think would be money well spend ...
One of the members near you in Ohio might recommend a good mechanic.
Once you become a Full Member our site completely opens up for you like The Linkage Tour it will get your engine running like she should.
Good Luck and safe trails always,
Dieter
PS. Do post some photos of your car. I am surprised that RM sold this car without any records. My car was imported from Florida and has been worked on by RM here in Canada I have all the records going back to Florida when service was done there.
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Congratulations Jim, you have a lovely car there. You'll find it has been discussed
On here before http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=23852.0
Enjoy it.
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If it is indeed the car that Jim purchased at the RM Auction, I am shocked that he needs more info then what RM has provided
-------- quote from above link -------
This Pagoda Roadster has just undergone a complete nut-and-bolt restoration to impeccable standards by factory-trained technicians in Duren, Germany. After all components and body panels were removed, the unit-body and panels were stripped of paint and dipped in a KTL anti-corrosion solution for long-lasting protection, as well as to provide the foundation for the astonishing final paintwork this car received. The car is painted an attractive Mercedes-Benz Medium Blue, with an off-white hardtop and matching off-white wheel covers.
With matching-numbers, as per a copy of its factory data card, the engine and four-speed manual transmission, rarely seen in the United States, were completely disassembled and rebuilt, as was the fuel injection system, using Mercedes-Benz hoses, belts, seals and internal components. Cosmetically, the engine bay is finished to the highest quality, with all proper plating, hardware, and factory lines. Likewise, the trunk is presented to the highest quality. All mechanical components were removed from the chassis and disassembled. Where replacements were required, only genuine Mercedes-Benz parts were used. All the chrome and trim, including the European-specification headlamps, was either replaced or restored. The work also included installation of a completely new interior with cream leather upholstery, new door cards and wood trim pieces, and contrasting dark blue carpeting. An original Becker Grand Prix radio is fitted, and a full set of tools is included.
Overall, this 280 SL is identical in condition and appearance to the way it would have been presented in the showroom when new, and the color combination is among the most desirable and attractive.
--------- end of RM quote ----------
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Hello! Longtime lurker, first time posting... After many years of searching and researching, I finally acquired my first pagoda this weekend and it's exactly what I was hoping for.
I grew up driving my father's 230sl which he sold many many years ago, and I always hoped to find one of my own. In particular, I hoped to find a Euro-spec 250sl with the early 230-style interior so it had as much of the old 230's look as possible while still getting the newer motor and rear discs. If I could get one in good shape, in a color I liked, manual transmission, already in the USA... so much the better. With only 3435 European 250sl's ever made, many of them with the 280sl interior, and many in automatic, and most still in Europe... I probably only had a couple hundred cars to choose from, most either in very poor shape or out of my price range.
After years of trolling through hemmings and ebay, willing to grab up a decent US-spec 230sl in a color that wasn't original and wasn't quite to my taste, and failing to find one... This past weekend the exact car I was looking for popped up on craigslist... and less than an hour's drive from my house. I secured the deal and drove it home yesterday and I couldn't be happier! A big thank you to the nice couple that took care of it for the last forty years!
Thank you as well to this wonderful forum and all the details in the technical manual, for making me feel like I could make an informed choice when I finally found the right car.
Of course, now the journey of ownership really begins, and I already have some questions ready to ask on the forum. So you haven't heard the last of me!
In particular, if anyone could recommend a knowledgable w113 mechanic in southern Marin County, I'd appreciate it!
-Kevin
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Welcome to the group. Very lovely colour - It that an Italian Export? These wheels look very Italian as well? Probably light too.
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Welcome Kevin, and congratulations on finding your perfect car. Indeed must be Italian import given the small round side marker lights. And I normally don't like aftermarket wheels but these are the exception. Also it seems the rearview mirror is non-standard?
Ask away and enjoy your ownership.
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Also interesting that it survived in the U.S. for 40 years without getting sealed-beam headlights! Did the sellers say where/who they bought it from. It's definitely not a U.S. spec car.
Beautiful, though. And I agree with Cees: Those wheels look good. Very unusual style, but it makes the car look quite sporty.
Enjoy!
Brian
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Very nice, you should consider coming to Legends of The Autobahn show in Monterey in August. It is 19 August. We have a concours, Silver Star preservation (to certify original cars) and a car corral.
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Thanks for the welcome!
I should probably start a new thread to introduce the car, so I don't monopolize the newmember thread...
but briefly, as many have surmised, I also believe it to be originally an Italian car. The gauges are in kilometers and it has the small Italian side marker lights. The previous owner bought it from the original owner here in Northern California, and I'm currently trying to track down the original owner for more info.
The wheels are something I'm considering changing, possibly to 5.5" Aluminum "steelies" (the 6" ones seem too expensive and hard to find.) and putting on 195/75R14's with stainless steel wheel covers. However, the previous owner says these wheels came on the car in 1976 and they are marked as made in Italy by F.J.S... so it's entirely possible that they were installed new at the dealer when purchased in Italy. Would that make them a desirable original feature of an Italian example? (Previous owner added the MB wheel caps.)
-Kevin
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Hello Kevin,
Welcome to the Pagoda SL Group and congradulations on your car and plans you have for it. Yes a seperate tread showing the progress and lots of photograps is a great idea.
I send you a PM please check your messages. I have a question for you.
Dieter
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HELLO!
I am purchasing a 1967 230SL in a Dark Olive repaint with Ivory MB Tex interior. Automatic and No Air- tough here in NC. 165,000 miles that are perfectly documented with all the stamps. This car has always been a driver apparently. It looks impeccable! My Mercedes mechanic friend went through it pretty well- a leaky rear brake cylinder, needs new belts, a slightly tilted alternator and a very loud recently replaced fuel pump were all he could uncover. I plan on replacing the belts,aligning the alternator and fixing the brake. Rust and body damage was pretty minimal with the body being extremely straight and aligned. Rust repairs seemed minimal from what we could tell with magnets.
I am looking for a good driver to put 4K a year or so on. Paying $47.5K seems a tad steep with so many miles, but the documentation makes me feel confident about its care and provenance. Drives fantastic and my mechanic friend who cares for many more vintage MB said it drove better than any he had driven that would sell for over $100k. I would appreciate any comments regarding miles, condition, price and value. Is retrofitting these cars with AC traumatic for them and cause damage? Who makes the best one and who makes the best looking AC?
This car has been on my mind for 15 years and when the prices starting going up I new I should get in soon. I plan on keeping this car.
Me- I am a designer and sustainable real estate developer in Charlotte NC and have a beach house on Figure 8 Island NC that I will be enjoying my car at a lot when not tooling around Charlotte. It will live inland. It is a welcome respite from my quite dependable and boring Toyota Highlander whom's dependability I truly appreciate.
Look forward to getting to know you here. James
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Welcome to the Pagoda SL Group, James. Congratulations on your purchase. You will find the group very helpful in answering your questions and offering advice when needed. Post a few pictures so we can share your joy!
Regards,
Ralph
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Hello James,
Welcome to our Pagoda SL Group, as Ralph pointed out you will find many helping hands here. Also as you know our Technical Manual has a ton of information at your fingertips about your car as well as hints and tips how to maintain it. We are all fortunate to live in a time were information is available to us when needed thru the Internet and from likeminded people here that have the same passion about the car as you have. A good place to start is here ...
If you have not already done so ----> https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz_W113
Then our Technical Manual, it is somewhat restricted to you until you become a Full Member. Taking out full membership costing only pennies a day will pay for itself over and over again. Just check out the benefits you have now and once you become a full member of our group as listed ...
Here ----> http://www.sl113.org/wiki/About/Membership
Please post some photos as Ralph already mentioned and once again Welcome
Dieter
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Welcome James, it sounds like you found a gem at a decent price. As for mileage, 165k is really minimal for a car this age plus it's really irrelevant as everything can be replaced or rebuilt to stay in like-new condition. Something we don't tend to do with newer cars, but we could just like we do eith valuable vintage cars such as the Pagoda. What adds to the value of your car is that you have all the records. Keep it in good shape and most of all enjoy driving it as much as you can.
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New Member packages for Non Americas will all be sent out tomorrow now I have returned from an extended holiday.
Welcome to the following that were in this group
John UK
Peter N UK
Oliver France
Robert UK
Michael Aust.
Peter H UK
Robin UK and
Davide Italy
Welcome to the Group and enjoy the ride.
Garry
Membership Administrator
Non Americas
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Hello to all of you! So happy of having found this forum!
I always loved Mercedes Pagoda and at last I think it is time to buy one: hope that with your help and through this forum I will find the right one for me.
See you soon!
Stefano from Milan
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Hi Stefano,
Welcome to our Pagoda SL Group, to help you in your search and what to check once you locate a suitable car to meet your budget, have a read thru this link.
Here in our Tech Manual ---> http://www.sl113.org/wiki/Buying/PrepurchaseEvaluation
We hope once you find it you will share photos with us, we love photos :)
Once you find the car of your dreams we like to welcome you then as a Full Member, as such you will gain full access to our site and Technical Manual.
To learn more about the Benefits have a read .....
Here .... ----> http://www.sl113.org/wiki/About/Membership
Meanwhile do enjoy your Assosiate Membership.
Dieter
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Hi everybody !
I am new to the MB world and it had to be a Pagoda ! I am a long time vintage car owner and enthusiast on the aircooled VW-Porsche (356) scene. When I recently found this 3-digit VIN (113042-10-0007xx), october 63 230SL at a very reasonable price (as things go now...) I knew I had to go out of my way... It does have a 280 engine and has been repainted in white from the original 334G "light blue" but it is otherwise a very original car, sound, with very little rust and complete with all original accessories except from hubcaps that are the later ones.
I do not know how rare a 3-digit car is in this world and would like to know how many early cars are represented on this forum.
Otherwise it will be completely restored to original specs as soon as I find a period correct engine. Meanwhile, summer is here and it will be enjoyed "as is" in Spain where I live !
Looking forward to participating to the discussions !
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Hi Tiibidabo and welcome to the Group,
Three figure number is definitely a low number but there are a few here. Do a search on the full forum for low numbers and you will find some discussion on others here.
334G is a great colour, I looked for several years to find one and just love it in combination with 350H for the hard top.
Enjoy the ride
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Many thanks for the welcome Garry !
Your car is beautiful and exactly the same combination as mine will end up being. I was not thrilled at white and when I discovered the actual original color that was a big incentive.
All the best
Gilles
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Hi
long time lurker and finally decided to sign up :)
Bittersweet fathers day for me this year, !) this was the First fathers day with out my son as he is deployed 2)went to take my father to brunch and while eating he informed me that he can't drive anymore and handed over the title to one of his prized possessions to me. A 2 owner 68 California Coupe with 148k miles. I Have the original window sticker (7557.00 including tinted glass and PS) BOS and every receipt known to this car. It is a nice strong #4-weak # 3 car. ZERO rust which is surprising because the vehicle has spent its entire life in So Cal at the beach. NO LEAKS ANYWHERE!! water or oil. Could use carpet, new rear seat cover for the flip seat and couple of very minor touch ups by the headlights (old body work starting to show) but other than that its a very nice car. It had been sitting for about 4 years with an occasional drive every once and awhile.
So I did the full cleaning of the tank and fuel system which wasn't bad due to my father ran Av gas in it..you know the good leaded great smelling gas of yesterday!. I will need to do a cooling system flush new T stat, hoses Etc. After that will be valve adjust. I am not new to MBZ as I am a diesel dude and love my 300d-sd-SDL's that i have had over the years but this one is special and a sweetheart. I took it out for a run and it is very smooth with greatest sounding exhaust I have ever heard. I am so surprised on the gearing 3500 rpm at 60! As I said I am just the caretaker and my oldest will get it when I am done and buried (maybe sooner) anyway great forum all and I am sure I will asking questions down the road.
Thanks for reading
Cameron
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Welcome to the Pagoda Group Cameron. Nice story on how you have come by your car. There are quite a few owners of family hand downs on the Forum here so you will be in good company.
Enjoy the ride and maybe think about becoming e Full Member and gaining access to Pagoda Notes, the Pagoda World and of course full access to the Tech Manual that you will need if you are going to do your own maintenance.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Cameron,
Indeed, welcome to the group! We just had a SoCal pagoda group meet-up today in Solana Beach. Are you near to us?? There is a nice community of owners here. The mission is the same as the overall group - keep the cars running, and enjoy the people associated with the cars.
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Hi Cameron,
Welcome to the Pagoda SL Group you are lucky to receive such a valuable gift from your dad. Nice to see another Pagoda being made road worthy and moved out from the dark side. I can only echo what Garry and Jonny already mentioned.
You have signed up to a true international site with members from all around the world. Once you decide to become a full member it will be my pleasure to mail you a welcoming package that will include a letter from our president, our issue 18 Pagoda World Magazine and two windshield stickers for your cars. Don't be shy to ask questions, as you may already know there are countless members here that are very knowlageable on our cars there help (since they bin there and done thst) will save you a fist full of dollars to say the least. I like to think of it as a great return of the low $30-/year membership fee.
Good luck and safe motoring,
Dieter
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Hello,
My name is Joel and I live in belgium, I'm a visitor to this forum for a while now and maybe it is time to post something.
I have 15 years body shop experience including 6 years at a local mercedes dealership working my way up from prep to painter. Also worked two years at a restoration shop doing metalwork and paint.
Next week I have one year my own business as a one man restoration shop. I'm just trying to do body work for clients. but on my own cars, I'll try to do "anything"
My clients consist mainly of Mercedes owners, currently I'm working on a rotisserie restoration of a 280SL with lots of rust and a lot of old (not so professional) repairs.
I started the car in February and the last picture is from yesterday.
joel
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Welcome to our Pagoda SL Group Joel, as you may know by now it is a truly International Group. I wish you well with your projects and your Business. I am sure your expertise in your field will be valuable to many of our Members here.
I recommend you start a thread on the restoration work with.your 280SL listing some of the steps you take to correct some of the issues you come across. This supported by photographs will be very valuable information.
Good Luck and Happy Motoring
Dieter
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thank you.
when I have time I will create a new thread with the complete project.
joel
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Hi. Just joined as a full member. My 1969 280SL story begins in my youth. I am a Canadian and lived in Europe in my youth (age 7 thru 15). My father loved MB's and had a few models over those years. He ordered the car directly through MB as we were living in Lahr Germany (Canadian AFB)at the time. He took the train to Stuttgart, picked it up and drove it to Lahr, and then to Calais to ship to Canada after three days. I still remember him telling me not to touch the paint as it was still drying. We soon after moved to Oklahoma for almost a year and then to California in 1970- luckily for the car (and me). My mother passed away and left it to me a year ago. My father passed 6 months before that. It had not been driven in over ten years as they got older, and thank goodness, never sold it. I loved that car - I sanded it by hand to the factory primer and repainted it many years ago. They rarely let me drive it as it was their pride and joy - and the fact that I am still paying the price for my teenage years when I drove it - and every time I get in it now, I see the burn marks on the shifter hump. At the time, I thought I was Joe Cool, smoking a cigarette and downshifting, thereby knocking off the burning end of the cigarette as it hit the dash and fell onto the tunnel. Oh well, I now have started a not too major restoration. It has 85,000 miles on it and it is 100% stock but for a fender repair which was not done well around the headlight. I have been somewhat obsessed reading so many great threads on this forum. I really enjoy reading about all the nuances of these cars. This car will in turn, be left to my son when I go - I could never sell it. I live in the East Bay of the San Francisco Bay Area, and work in Silicon Valley as an engineer designing and developing semiconductor wafer processing equipment, but have been a car gearhead all my life. My 1988 Porsche 928S4 is fully restored and looks like a new car, the 280SL will be there too - in a couple more years. Thanks to all the members for this treasure trove of helpful information. One thing I would love to see more of is videos or links to videos. I read these posts and sometimes am not sure exactly what was done from the written descriptions. I hope to add some of my own as my project progresses.
Doug M
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Welcome Doug to our Pagoda SL Group you found the right place we are an International Group here and your great story is also International for you Dad purchased your car in Germany, he never let it go and now it is yours, you are a fellow Canadian living in the USA.
We look forward in following your story of full restoration (as you mentioned she will be looking like new like your Porsche) :) Start a thread of restoration and post some photos along with it, many of us look forward to it.
If you have not found it yet, you can find videos ...
Click here -----> http://www.sl113.org/wiki/Main/Video
There are a few more members here that originally purchased there Pagoda and still have it. You will meet them as time goes by here or read about them here in this thread that contains many wonderful stories like yours that Cees Klumper started 13 years ago.
Welcome!
Dieter
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Hi all
I am new here, and already feel impressed by the contents of this site and the group.
I am also new to Pagoda, where I purchased a 1967 250 SL a year ago and have been restoring it since then.
Almost done with the work, minor issues left.
I have always wanted one to add to my classic cars and was looking to own a 280 SL. But a friend told me about the 250 saying it is in good shape, but has no soft top. So I thought fine, I will buy it, fix whatever is needed, polish it and sell it, and keep the money and profit for the 280, whenever I find one.
However, as I started fixing the car and researching it, it sort of got under my skin, especially that not many 250 cars were produced. So dug into it and did a ground up restoration except for the engine which seemed in excellent shape. Of course did all that needed to be done to the engine apart from stripping it down.
Full paint job plus new leather seats, door panels, leather for the dash and back, and carpet set all imported from USA, where the car originally came from, imported to Lebanon where I saw and bought it.
The car looks absolutely graceful and beautiful and is very sweet to drive.
As for me, I am an auto engineer by education, studied in UK (London), and now living back in my home country, Lebanon.
One of my best exercised hobbies is collecting and restoring classic cars, and have managed to keep a bunch so far, from Mercedes cars, British (Aston, MG, Jaguar), Various American Muscle with 3 modern cars for daily & week end use.
You can see some of them on this site ( http://www.cardomain.com/id/challenger_7 ) although I never updated it.
As one of the members mentioned that he passes by the parking to see his Pagoda, my garage is exactly half way between my residence and office, and on most days I stop by the garage to do one thing or another before going home, or simply get the dust off.
Happy to be part of you all.
Cheers
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Hi Farouk,
sorry for the mess up on your registration. Glad to see you are in. Beautiful car... stick to the 250 if you are happy with it. The 250 is much better appreciated on this site than a normal, run of the mill 280.
Peter
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Thank you Peter for your welcome note as well as your help for registration.
Yes, finally it worked after Dieter's suggestion to delete previous browsing history :)
I do agree with you about the 250, and that is what impressed me about it and what made me dig into restoring it.
I still have a few snags here and there and should be driving it frequently soon.
Thanks again for your welcome and support.
Cheers
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Hi All,
I'm considering a Pagoda purchase for my family. Love these cars. My father-in-law's original 1968 SL 280 is for sale from his nephew. It appears to have some great bones, but I'm not sure if we're getting in over our heads. Minimum rust is present, some unfortunate amounts in the hard top, however, all other pre-purchase inspections seem to pass. Will let you all know what decision we come to and if it winds-up in our garage, I'll be looking forward to using this excellent resource most frequently.
Thanks and looking forward to meeting some of you.
Kevin
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Welcome Kevin,
Start a new thread if you like with some photographs members here will help you make the right demission.
Good luck,
'
Dieter
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Hello Everyone,
I've just joined a couple of days ago and I want to introduce myself. I've been an MBZ nut for a very long time but only just bought a W113. It's a 1966 230SL Euro in reasonable condition for its age. The car is in need of some TLC before it can get back on the road. It had been stored, improperly, for many years and while the body and interior held up, the fuel system did not. I'm needing to replace the fuel tank and the rebuild/replace the fuel pump before I can see how everything else is working. I just ordered a set of Hankook Optimo H724 tires for it from Tire Rack in size P175/75R-14.
Jonathan B
Los Angeles, CA
Current fleet:
2003 Crown Victoria CNG
1999 S420
1995 E320 Wagon
1971 280 SE 3.5 Coupe
1970 Mustang
1966 230SL Euro
In Memoriam:
1983 Supra (stolen)
1975 250C (sold)
1970 250 Sedan (engine fire)
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We will all love to read about the recommissioning process! Other than than brown tires, looks pretty good.
From one Jon(ny) B to another.
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Hello All,
I am a new member. Just bought a second owner 70 280SL with 35,000 original miles. Super clean little red car with two tops and black interior. I really bought it for my wife as I'm too big for the car at 6'8''. The car is an Auto Trans with A/C. I need to get a few things fixed up. The car has only been driven 1000 miles in the last 15 years. Although the owner did have the oil changed annually. I need to get the dash wood redone. Any suggestions with this would be appreciated.
I'm a real car enthusiast. I have roughly 16 classic muscle cars, mostly Pontiac GTO's and Mopars. All are convertibles. I also have four Challenger Hellcat's. I've always loved the 'Pagoda's' since I was a kid. Happy to have one in the barn now.
George
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George,
Welcome! 35k miles! that's highly unusual. Having 16 Convertibles you are probably very experienced about cars.
For the wood, if you want to send to California, Madera Concepts has done lots of old Mercedes. I have seen one of the Mercedes they show on their site in person. It's the 220se done in birds-eye maple that they say was Marylin Monroe's car. I have seen this car and met the owner at a cars & coffee a couple of times. The woodwork is phenomenal.
http://www.maderaconcepts.com/
Best,
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Welcome George!
I too have recently joined the group and a one year old owner of a Pagoda, which I have always desired.
I found a very clean 67 - 250 SL which I restored, as I like all my cars looking brand new.
You and I share the muscle car bit as I too have a nice classic collection with a few G/M and Mopars in my Garage.
For the wood, whilst mine was restorable but the cost would have been close to buying a new set. So I bought my new dash, or rather the wooden part that sits on top of the dash - just below the window and includes the speaker grill, from Madeira concepts too. I also bought a new console as well as the wooden frame that goes around the rear window from inside.
Absolutely wonderful stuff, and arrived to Lebanon (Middle East) without a scratch.
See attached photo which is not too good, but can show the quality of the wood.
Good luck with your project.
Cheers
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I have looked at the Pagoda SL website as a guest, several times over the last couple of years and just recently became a full member. I am really impressed with the contents and the excellent contributors that make this effort really something special.
I have been a car nut all my life starting with building a channeled 1931 Model A to run on the street and as a B Altered at the drag strips in Iowa. It was Buick powered with a Packard 3-speed transmission, built for a total cost of less than $600 and ran the quarter mile in about 14 seconds in 1958. That was followed by a short wheelbase A-Gas Dragster, built for less than $1200 that ran the quarter at about 150 mph and in the low 9 seconds in 1961.
Life followed that with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and then 5 years in the US Air Force followed by a career as a pilot with Delta Air Lines. I have had several interesting cars and then a few not so interesting. 1949 Hudson, 1955 Chevy V-8, 1963 Volvo P-1800. 1963 Renault Dauphine, 1962 Chevy Corvair, 1963 Karmann Ghia, 1964 Ford Galaxie 500XL, 1968 VW Squareback Sedan, 1970 Pontiac Lemans, 1975 Lancia Beta, 1980 MB 300D coupe, 1980 BMW 735 5-Speed, 1990 Infinity Q-45, 1995 BMW 540i 6 Speed and now a 2008 BMW 335i convertible. I have done most of the maintenance work on all these cars over all these years, even when most everyone else just takes their car to the shop.
My 1980 MB was picked up new, at the Factory in Singlefingen and driven all over Europe before it was shipped home. Wonderful. My second MB is a 1971 280 SL which I purchased in 2001 with about 155,00 miles, a great paint job and lots of rust holes in the floor. If I had been really knowledgeable I would not have bought that car with all the rust problems but the price was right. After getting the 280SL, I took care of the mechanical and safety items, tires, hoses & belts, made temporary patches to the holes in the floor and enjoyed the car for many years. Finally in 2014, I decided to start a limited restoration which quickly changed as I found that the entire floor and side rails had to be replaced. I am fortunate that I do have a large enough basement garage to contemplate such a big project so I started taking the Pagoda apart.
While I have have a lot of experience with the mechanical parts of cars, I really had no experience in body work and other skills needed for a complete restoration. However, I blindly proceeded with the project. After a course in MIG welding and basic metal work, I was somewhat ready to start the restoration. I quickly learned that a rotisserie was required to do the work necessary on the underside of the car. I found a used rotisserie that I adapted to the Pagoda and that really helped with the effort. The side rails are now completed as is part of the floor. I am now about 60% complete with the metal work and hope to get the body out for media blasting and Epoxy primer in the next few months.
I know that I will need the combined expertise of the members of this group to finish this effort and I would like to thank you all in advance.
I am enclosing some photos of my car when I first put it on the rotisserie and then some current photos of some of my progress.
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Hello, I am a returning member - sold my 280SL about 5 or 6 years ago and just returned to the fold with purchase of a 67 250SL. The 'new' one is a one owner, US delivery 5 speed with 50k miles. One repaint in original silver by Rudi Koniczek earlier this year. Interior (including carpets and wood) all original - color is blue Tex. Canvas top never up, tools still in factory wrappers. A/C, Power Steering. All documentation including cancelled checks and order correspondence, service records, books, manuals. Just fetish-sorted by Rene Luteraan in LA. Car will live in Palm Springs. SOOOOO happy to have another Pagoda. I know it is a matter of taste, but for me the early 250SLs are perfect - the spare simplicity and lower seats of the 230SL with the stronger motor and brakes of the later cars. If I figure out how to post pictures, I will try.
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Howard - wow, that's a serious rotisserie - makes for great photos. The work looks really nice.
Steven H. - gotta ask what others are thinking - is your 5-speed a ZF that came with the car originally? Either way, it's very very nice to have that extra gear.
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Welcome all...
looks like a serious rotisserie...
Peter
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Howard - wow, that's a serious rotisserie - makes for great photos. The work looks really nice.
Steven H. - gotta ask what others are thinking - is your 5-speed a ZF that came with the car originally? Either way, it's very very nice to have that extra gear.
Yes. It is on the original order and the data card. I just posted a copy of the pink paper that Porsche calls a Kardex on the General Discussion forum.
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Sorry, it is a 4-speed manual not the elusive 5-speed. I have no history with this car. Based on the chassis number, it was manufactured in September of 1969. However, it was titled as a 1971 280SL so it may have stayed with a dealership for a couple of years. It started life in Tunis Beige. 462 H and was repainted a Gold metallic at some point in the past. Nice paint job on the exterior but on closer examination a very bad restoration attempt, really just a rust coverup. I plan to paint the car Signal Red for the next life and stay with the Cognac interior color.
It had a standard 4.08 rear axle with the 4-speed, and I considered the 6-speed transmission from Poland for this rebuild but it got too pricey. I have picked up a 3.27 axle from a 280SEL 4.5 that I think will make the car quieter on the highway. I plan to drive this car so for Georgia it will have to have AC. I have looked at the air conditioner that Bud's Benz sells, any comments.
I used K & K Manufacturing for all of the replacement floor and rail pieces. Good quality reproduction parts but they still require a bunch of work to get the installation right. It would go faster if I was not so particular.
Howard
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Hi Everyone!
I’m back after a long time away. I had a 1968 280SL about 10 years ago and even went to Blacklick and met some of you guys back in 2008.
I’ve got a new project now, a very original 1970 280SL which I am in the process of dismantling and documenting…very slowly. I plan to take it apart and put it back together over the next 2 or 3 years. Along the way I will restore some of the parts myself, shop for some new bits, send some other things off to the professionals and I’ll definitely ship off the chassis for metal, body work and paint.
I’ve been poking around the forums and I’m getting ready to post my first question, which I’ll do later in the Body, Interior, Paint, Chrome and Cosmetic Section of the forum.
For now I just thought I’d introduce myself. I’m sure I’ll be spending some time here over the next few years!
Cheers!
Paul
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Welcome back Paul!! Looking forward to reading about your restoration as you move forward.
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Hello all! I'm a new member interested in purchasing a 280SL. A retired MD, I :)reside in Indiana. I've had a less than satisfying foray into the Porsche 356 Speedster replica world and now looking to get a real vintage ride. These Pagodas address style, drivability and comfort. Just need to find one in my price range and time zone.
Dave
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Hi Dave, I'm just down the road from you in Indianapolis. I just purchased my first 230SL in July. If you're interested, there's a 250SL in a downtown warehouse that I found while researching my purchase. Never seen it except in photos. PM me and I'll send you the link to the consigner and his pics. Good luck with your search.
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Hi All,
I have just bought a 230 SL (1966). I was actually looking for a good condition W107 when I found out an old school friend was selling his pagoda. The car had been standing for 6 years ( due to his long absence) so it is not running ....in a few weeks time it will start being "accessed " by a classic car repair garage. I'm not mechanically knowledgeable but of course expect at minimum some significant fuel injection, tank etc problems. It was an impulse buy based on trust and photos !
I live in Cascais (Estoril) ! Portugal.
Will surely have a lot of questions and hopefully make good use of this forum.
Regards
Pedro
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Pedro,
Welcome to the group! You will find a great group of folks here ready to help with questions. Please be sure to make use of the main search function. A great deal of the information you are looking for is already out there ready to be tapped.
Good luck and keep us all posted!
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Hello all and thank you for a wonderful site.
I'm a new owner of a 1965 230SL. As you can see from the photos, she's in need of a little love...ok, much love.
I come from a vintage motorcycle background. Several months ago a good friend decided he had enough of this project and asked if I'd like to "take it over".
The W113's are so damned cute, I could not pass it up. She was a one owner car with 55K original miles. Believe it not, the original paint looks like it will polish out nicely (I know the pictures say otherwise).
All parts are accounted for and we've jumped in with both hands. I'll do my best to update the site on our progress.
I ask you all to have a lot of patients for my many uneducated questions.
Thanks again for the site,
K.
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Welcome to the group, kpick !!!
Your questions will always be answered here, so ask away.
You will also find tons of information already written in this Forum as well as the Technical manual, so you can search for the answers too.
We look forward to hear about your progress and we love pictures !
Mark
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Hi Everyone,
Just joined the board since I just inherited a 1965 230SL.
My dad brought it home for my mom over 35 ears ago when he picked it up at an auction. At first she wasn't happy that he'd spent 11,000 on a car without consulting her. Well he wasn't in the dog house for long and she loved the car. She had a 1961 280SE Coupe in the mid 60's but my mom & dad drove it in the winter and the salt got the best of it after a while, my mom was sad when it was sold. So that is why my dad bought the 230SL for her, he always felt bad about her loosing her baby. The 230SL since she had it has never been winter driven.
It currently is in my sister's garage and I'll pick it up in the spring once the salt is off the roads. The car has about 86,000 miles on it. Nothing major has ever been done to the car, it's never been hit and never painted. My mom wouldn't let anyone drive it, in the 35 years I've driven it 3 times! Only once with her permission LOL.
I'd like to get some restoration done on the car, so will be looking for some suggestions.
Mike
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Hi Mike,
Welcome to our Group and you are lucky to inherit such a fine car. You will find good help here on the Pagoda SL Group a truly international forum. Dan C. Known here as Benz Dr. Has a shop in In Port Lambton, Ontario, Dan has a lot of contacts that may be of help to you.
Once you get the car out in the daylight in the spring share some pictures with us.
Dieter
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Mike,
Welcome indeed.
One constant them you will see from most everyone when you post a note like this one. We would love to see photos!! So in the spring have the camera battery fully charged and share a bit of your car with us.
Happy Holidays.
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Hi Mike,
Welcome to our Group and you are lucky to inherit such a fine car. You will find good help here on the Pagoda SL Group a truly international forum. Dan C. Known here as Benz Dr. Has a shop in In Port Lambton, Ontario, Dan has a lot of contacts that may be of help to you.
Once you get the car out in the daylight in the spring share some pictures with us.
Dieter
Dieter,
Thanks for the information and greeting.
Over the next few months I'll get more information and a few pics from the garage. In the spring I'll get some better pictures once I get her cleaned up and running!
In the spring maybe I'll contact Dan C and drive out to him to look over and let me know what should be done.
Mike
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Mike,
Welcome indeed.
One constant them you will see from most everyone when you post a note like this one. We would love to see photos!! So in the spring have the camera battery fully charged and share a bit of your car with us.
Happy Holidays.
Jonny,
Thanks for the welcome!
I'll try and get some pics sooner of the car in the garage. And maybe rummage up some older ones if I can find any. Worst case will have some in the spring when I go get her out of the garage and spif her up.
Mike
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Hi. New member from Colorado joining, as I have recently acquired a 1964 230SL. From the pictures and the inspection, car looks great - and is in the process of being shipped from one part of the USA to another. However, I am currently working in Germany, so it will be a little while before I actually get to see the car. Have been lurking through this forum for about a month, so am excited to become part of the group.
Patrick
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Welcome, and good luck with the purchase. Be sure to keep us posted on how the first months of ownership, and ownership along the way for that matter, work out.
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Patrick,
Welcome. The 230 looks very nice. There are a couple of us on this forum who have European lives with home-bases in the USA.
Enjoy and let us know when you first take her out.
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Welcome to the group Patrick. I am also a part time European (Italy) with a pagoda in USA. Look forward to further posts about your new purchase.
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Hi everyone! My name is Mauro and im proud to be part of this special forum! i own a mercedes 250sl 1967 .
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Good Evening
I've just found the site this evening and I'm very keen to buy myself a W113. I've posted in "General Discussion" regarding a car I'm considering buying and would welcome any opinions/advice. I'm based in the north of England and look forward to increasing my knowledge of W113's via the forum.
Best Wishes
Steve
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Welcome Patrick, Mauro and Steve to our firum.
Patrick, good luck with your work in Germany, I hope you don't have to wait too long before you see your car.
Mauro, it is a special forum indeed, a true international one. Post some photos when you have a chance, we love photos of our cars :)
Steve, if you are anywhere close to London, there is a shop just outside London, Colin is a Member here see link below. If it's too far from you it would be beneficial for you to find a Member near you that has a good knowledge of our cars. Or find a shop near you that has a Benz mechanic on staff to look over your find before you purchase. Also in our technical manual is a good write up (prepared by our long term members) that gives you good pointers. I'll post the links for you here for the London shop and the article in our Tech manual. Good luck.
Dieter
The shop for Colin Ferns ---> https://www.colinferns.com
Our Tech Manual Article ---> https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Buying/PrepurchaseEvaluation
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Hi Everyone,
New member here. I´m a proud owner of -70 280SL which I bought on my 40th birthday (2008).
I got a "Pagoda fever" in 1998 and it took ten years to find one which met my standards. I was searching for a rust free, numbers match, manual transmission car with nice color combination. Mission impossible? Yes it was. I had to lower my standards. So, what I got:
A very solid white (050)car with bamboo leather and automatic transmission. I´m happy.
BR,
Matti
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Wecome to the group Matti! Let's see some pictures of your white beauty.
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Welcome Matti, as Ralph said post some photos, we love photos of our cars :)
Dieter
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Hello Pagoda Forum,
I am in the process of rescuing a one owner '69 280 SL/auto/matching numbers/98K miles that has been sitting in a garage for the past 20 years. So far we have aired up the tires to make sure it will roll so we can winch it onto the trailer and squirted a little marvel into the cylinders. Will make sure it turns over by hand this weekend.
Looking forward to this project.
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Hello Porter,
Welcome to our Pagoda SL Forum. Your project sounds like a very interesting one that I'm sure you like to share with Members here. May I recommend you start a thread here in our General Discussion Forum area along with photographs of your new find.
-----> https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?board=2.0
We love photos so if you can include them it be great. The benefit by starting your very own thread will be that you can add the progress as you go along with your project that will be of interest to many in our Forum. At the same time you can find a helping hand to issues you might discover during your rescue of this fine automobile :) you will soon find (unless you already discovered it) that our Forum is as much about people as it is about our Pagoda, to this end people helping one another is one of the great benefits of our Forum.
Good luck with your project and happy Motoring.
Dieter
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Welcome to the group bama9eleven and congratulations on your find. I am very happy to see an additional member from Birmingham.
I second Dieter's comments. We would be interested in seeing your project from the very start - like pulling it out of its resting place!
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Hello there
I am a fifty one year old mechanic who should know better but still loves stupid old cars.. I have worked on a number of 113's in the past and love the style and build quality , and they are pretty rugged too, if I win the Euro millions I will build a 230 historic race car, I would love to see one out there. The other day I came across a hand book for a 280sl and will post it on here as it would be nice to reunite it with the car .
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Hi @ all,
i´m Karsten from Germany in Lower Saxony. I have to be 48 old to become a 113 SL :)
From December 2014- September 2016 i restored with my 20 years old son the W113.
It stands 20 years in the Mojave Desert. Now it is a beautiful car. :)
Karsten
www.sl113.de
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Ariana,Bob and Tre want to introduce Archer! Future pagoda owner.
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Ariana,Bob and Tre want to introduce Archer! Future pagoda owner.
Congratulations!!!
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Congratulations Bob. Start them early on the handover. ;D
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How great! Congratulations!!
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Hello Dieter and fellow members.
Having owned my 1970 280SL for a good number of years now, I know I should have become a member a long time ago. Dieter- I am actually in your neck of the woods, in the London Ontario area.
Dan C. the Benz Dr. knows me and my car quite well and he is always nice enough to occasionally drop by my house and say hi and talk car stuff.
Dan has mentioned he hasn't seen too many cars like mine as it's a gold exterior with gorgeous red interior- Euro version, California Coupe. (Hard top with full factory, folding rear bench seat.)
Currently, getting the heater leavers finally renewed and replaced.
Glad to have finally joined the group and certainly enjoy and appreciate the wealth of information on this great site.
Best, Ian
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Welcome Ian, glad to see you on board.
Dan is certainly a big contributor here and there are many others with a wealth of experience willing to help and answer any questions.
We love to see photos here so put up a photo of your car and interior, we would love to see it.
Garry Membership Administrator
Other than Americas
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Welcome Ian to our International Pagoda SL Group, nice to see another Pagoda owner in our area. Yes Dan is as Garry pointed out very helpful and as a great deal of Members here very knowledgeable about our fine cars. We have another member here in London, Ontario (Peter, [aka] pj ). Peter is having his car completely restored. Perhaps when he is done (he hopes before the fall) the three of us can have a little cruse around the city.
I am in the middle of moving (downsizing) I should be done by mid May. Drop me a PM with your address and contact info, I'll drop by to have a look at your Pagoda.
Post a picture or two here we all like to see photos, if you need help let us know.
Happy And Safe Motoring
Dieter
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Welcome to Ian
and if you'd like to join us the next time we visit the restoration shop where my 230 is, please get in touch
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Thanks Deiter. I'll try and post some pics soon, probably won't be the best as the car is in the garage awaiting windshield replacement. Looking forward to a warm spring!
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Hi Deiter
Better pics to come but hopefully these will work for now.
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Hi Ian, great looking car, nice interior too. I think I'd Dan, Peter, you and I can get together some day when Dan makes a trip to the city to deliver or pick up parts from the machine shop he uses that be great. I can see it now our four cars parked side by side (gold, red, white and blue) will turn quite some heads as we make our way to the coffee shop :)
Best,
Dieter
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Hi Everyone!
I am a new member in Westchester County, New York, USA. I love vintage cars and have been buying and selling them for about fifteen years. I have recently bought an "older restoration" 1966 230SL with manual transmission. Was looking for a car for about 18 months and this one is perfect! The restoration was very well done in the nineties and, from what I can tell, barely driven afterwards. (Has about 4000km on the clock.) Last year, the car was gone over by a specialist: all rubber items were changed out for new, including tires, the radiator was re-cored, new upholstery and carpet, changed fluids, and a new battery. I drove the car on Sunday for about 150 miles and it drives like a dream! Lovin' it -- here are a couple of photos I took:
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uu02n7SKCLQ/WWPIpwjsNAI/AAAAAAAAAzM/2pf0VGbsn9s2iBymbzHBzZila2-OZ3u2QCLcBGAs/s640/IMG_7962.JPG) (http://s756.photobucket.com/user/uptheorg/media/Mercedes-Benz/April%202017%20W113_zpsccw1cq6s.jpg.html)
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8iaAbnUYh1o/WWPIpgcdckI/AAAAAAAAAzE/aQMUqjkVJRw6FtCIVFtnMRmhbWaRs1S3QCLcBGAs/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg) (http://s756.photobucket.com/user/uptheorg/media/Mercedes-Benz/April%202017%20W113%204_zpss0zckpvd.jpg.html)
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mPuSpcXtxpk/WWPIprMr5nI/AAAAAAAAAzA/shbeDcwnTm4GeLZXM0BwRrzS9DiIrh7nACLcBGAs/s640/FullSizeRender%2B%25285%2529.jpg) (http://s756.photobucket.com/user/uptheorg/media/Mercedes-Benz/April%202017%20W113%202_zps9lrc815f.jpg.html)
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jpF97VGda3s/WWPIv8UuggI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/bYxGfiUSrzY7gNBQ0VBvdH9tzXbOx8n3wCLcBGAs/s640/1966%2B230sl%2B%25283%2529.jpg) (http://s756.photobucket.com/user/uptheorg/media/Mercedes-Benz/April%202017%20W113%205_zpsaitaxi6v.jpg.html)
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LCGDTpJOh9s/WWPIv6X-ZdI/AAAAAAAAAzU/uVNNYbwGiiEzBXoOC3Wnvc__q4gYazYBQCLcBGAs/s640/1966%2B230sl%2B%25285%2529.jpg) (https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LCGDTpJOh9s/WWPIv6X-ZdI/AAAAAAAAAzU/uVNNYbwGiiEzBXoOC3Wnvc__q4gYazYBQCLcBGAs/s640/1966%2B230sl%2B%25285%2529.jpg)
This forum is the best -- I have been consulting with it on everything that I do. Most recently, I designed a rigging for hoisting the roof single-handedly. I ordered the various parts and when it is installed (and working LOL) I will post my "solution" to this problem.
Thanks for everything so far,
Jim
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Welcome to the group! Wonderful shots, where were they taken?
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@Jonny B I took the car for a long run this past Sunday from my home in New York into Connecticut -- found an office building that had the right look and there were no cars out front (because it was Sunday!) The bonus was that there was a 50 inch high concrete planter that I was able to stand on to get the shots from above . . . the planter runs all the way around the building . . . you can see it on the right side of this shot:
(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UE0xQPmuRT4/WWPHzA2J0CI/AAAAAAAAAy8/C2t8gqJZZE44NAkS23CNjIczolCduMqyQCLcBGAs/s640/FullSizeRender%2B%25283%2529.jpg) (http://s756.photobucket.com/user/uptheorg/media/Mercedes-Benz/April%202017%20W113%206_zpszgg1zl0k.jpg.html)
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Hi,
I just purchased a 1971 280SL with matching numbers, original sales documents (California car) and all the other original books, instructions, etc. that came with the car. It is signal red (although originally tobacco brown) and a real eye catcher. I got thumbs up just driving it the 3 miles from where the carrier delivered it to my house. Being the anal person that I am I have already made a list of things that I plan to do to make it "perfect".
I previously owned a 230SL which I undertook to restore. It became such a huge project that I got burned out and eventually sold it to someone else to finish. I lost a lot of money on that whole ordeal :( .
I am interested in meeting others in my area (Camano Island, WA) who own a pagoda and in learning as much as I can from the forums, etc. from the Pagoda SL Group.
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Welcome to the Group Bob, you certainley will get a lot of help from experienced Members of our Group.
In a few days I will post you our Welcoming Package, it will include a letter from our President, 2 windshield stickers of our logo and a copy of our Pagoda World Magazine.
Is there a specific major area you like to address on your car (the list you made). I have several PW issues and would be happy to select one that discusses your area of concern, if I have it. Why not edit your post above add the punch list and I will check if any of the issues are addressed in the PW issues I have.
Now that you are a Full Member you also have full access to our Pagoda Notes that have been published over the years. I'm certain that many areas of your punch list are discussed.
Here is the link to the Index ----> https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=16123.0
Good luck,
Dieter
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Hi, just like to introduce myself as I've just started the search for a Pagoda! I'm based in England but off to the States for a few weeks, so just thought I'd mention it in case anyone had anything I might be interested in. Ideally looking for a manual in a shade of blue, but obviously like to hear about anything that might be available.
Looking for a driver level car, ideally something useable and reliable, but I don't mind a little tatty! So not a basket case or a concours winner then!
A little about myself, I'm recently retired so time to play with my cars. Into Porsche's in a big way, but think the w113 is one of the most beautiful cars ever and a perfect choice for my wife, what a great husband I am!
Hope you don't mind this as a first post, and look forward to contributing more to the forum in the future.
I'll post in the wanted section as well if that's ok.
Thanks Mike
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Welcome to the group Mike. We have a good number of members from the UK and I am sure you will get to know some of them if you follow the forum regularly. Our forum has a welcoming and helpful atmosphere with members providing assistance on most any matter you can think of concerning our cars.
Best of luck on your search for a car. If you find a car in the US and need pre-purchase inspection assistance, our members have contacts throughout the country and may be able to offer suggestions.
Again welcome to the group.
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Hello Mike,
I can only second what Ralph already mentioned. Good hunting in finding that car you seek. I know there are a few out there. Best of luck to you and ...
Welcome to a truly International Group of the Pagoda
Best,
Dieter
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Hello all,
This is my first post after recently joining...
I am not an owner of a pagoda but I do work on them for a living.
I work for a company based in Cardiff that has been run by a father and son for the past 20 years or so.
We are predominately 190SL specialists but we have looked after many pagodas over the years, and we have recently been carrying out more and more full restorations.
The most recent being a RHD 280SL auto and a RHD 230SL manual.
I have been working for the company since before my apprenticeship at 16, 7 years later I'm still hooked on mercs. (I have a 230 w114 myself.)
I'm by no means an expert on the w113's but I do hope to offer advice where I can and hopefully learn a lot more.
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Mr Gunney?
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Mr Gunney?
It is the Gunney's I work for yes!
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Welcome to the group, regardless of who you work for ;D
114115 (achim) has a very well loved 114 too
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Welcome ,Ellis,(Pagodarestorer23)
You will be surprised at what is available on this site
Paul
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Welcome Ellis to the truly International Pagoda SL Group, nice to have you in our mids.
Rolf-Dieter
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Hey guys I'm Casey. My mother and father own a 1971 280 sl. I'm a mechanic. graduated with an associates in applied automotive technology. I learn something new everyday.
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Welcome Caey - I assume you will be doing repairs and maintenance on your parents' SL? You'll find all the information you need here.
Case
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Indeed, welcome Casey! As Cees indicated, there is a lot of information to be found on this site. And lots of folks ready to assist.
Be sure to make use of the main search function (the one in the line with Home, Help, etc. That function can be used to search the entire forum. The one at the top under the logo only searches the forum you are currently reading.
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You learn something new every day ;D
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Hello
New owner in Ireland about to embark on the hopefully enjoyable and not too brutally expensive restoration road on a 230sl black with black (for now) rhd auto
Good mechanics with the rusty floor pans and chassis legs and some good some bad chrome
Looking forward to using your site too hold my hand when I get a bit emotional
Trooper
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Hello everybody, after more than a decade chasing a pagoda, and after starting to Asume that they were probably out of my reach, I finally bought mine, an early 1963 in need of TLC.
I'm new to my car but willing to learn and to contribute to the pagoda
Regards
Eduardo
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Welcome to the Forum Eduardo!! You will find it to be a welcoming group. Be sure to take advantage of the knowledge and experience available here as you get to know your car and as questions come up.
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Eduardo,
Indeed, welcome to the group! You will find this site to be a treasure trove of information about the car.
Get acquainted with the main "Search" function, the one in the string starting with "Home". The search function at the top of the page (under the group logo) will only search on the section you are currently reading (General Discussion, Events, etc.).
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Hey everyone! John here from Calgary, Canada. I'm a MB tech at a dealership here and am currently working on a '69 280 SL. On here for some good insight and some input on different issues I may experience along the way.
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John,
Welcome! I am sure you will find quite a trove of information here. There is a lot of information to sift through. I would highly recommend you become familiar with the main search function - this is the one in the line of items beginning with "Home" on the left. It searches the entire forum.
The search item under the SL group logo will only search the forum section you are looking at.
And if you don't find what you are looking for, people fall all over themselves to provide an answer!
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Hello, I'll take a moment to introduce myself, my name is Sean and I run a small custom fabrication company just outside Ottawa. I had a 1968 250SL that I bought from my grandfather in 2003, it was an Arizona car, rebuilt the engine, drove it for a few years, the paint was fading and starting to chip in a few places so I took it down to bare metal, fixed all the dings and cleared in with flat laquer, drove it for a couple of more years in essentially bare metal. When I ended up selling it to fund some other projects the guy who bought it thought it was a silver car from the pics, easy way to show no bondo.
In any case I am doing an engine swamp on a customers 1965 230SL and have run into a snag, I will post my question in the technical section.
Yes, sometimes I do miss the SL.
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Greetings all!
I have acquired a 1969 280 SL from Karl Middelhauve of Wausua, Wisconsin. Burgundy with Tan interior, hardtop and soft top. 4- Speed.
I picked it up on July 5 and ultimately drove it home to Washington State from the Chicago area after visiting with family first.
A dream of mine since seeing an SL in the showroom in 1968...
Reinhold Schuetz
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RPSchuetz,
Welcome to the group !!
You have a stunning car there. It is still up on Karl's website, so I checked out the other pictures.
Fantastic.
Can you tell us how the drive went?
Mark
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Mark - the drive went relatively well, once my brother and I resolved a sticky throttle linkage issue. Also monitored the oil level as there was some leakage going on - hopeful most of that is being resolved today as I'm at my trusted local mechanic's while the oil pan gasket and lower oil cooler hose are being replaced. Also having electronic ignition installed and new plugs and ignition wires, plus new valve cover gasket after the linkage and valve adjustment check.
One of the fun things about the drive was finding out what a conversation starter the car is - I'd say that 75% of my rest stops along the 2000+ mile trip included compliments and conversations!
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Also, it took a bit to get used to the high revving sound of the engine - I allowed myself to drive a little faster as far as the top end every day as I got used to the audio effect - by the end of the drive the 4000 rpm's at 70+ felt relatively normal...
Took the attached photo in front of a very interesting military museum in Montana
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Reinhold,
Welcome to the group. A 2000 plus mile trip in a newly acquired 48 year old car is certainly an adventure! The car looks great. If you took other pictures along the way, please share them here along with any other anecdotes from the trip.
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Welcome to the Group Reinhold.
Like you I had a similar long distance to get my current Pagoda home some years ago. Unlike you, it was a nerve wracking disaster as the engine slowly self destructed but finally got it to my mechanic after nearly 20 litres of oil.
Enjoy the Group, have a good read through the Tech Manual and the search function in the ‘Home’ line is your favourite friend. If you cannot find anything then ask plenty of questions, there are many here who will know the answers.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Ralph - my pics are apparently of a size that only one at a time can be loaded, so here goes...
This one is of my first live view of the car - I had asked Karl to have it on a lift for us so that he could point out all the restorative work he had done underneath as far as shocks, engine mounts, brake lines, etc.
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A really nice rest stop on I-90 near Chamberlain, SD. Has a very well done Lewis and Clark longboat exhibit plus an impressive statue tribute to the American Indian women.
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.... This one is of my first live view of the car -
Great shot Reinhold! I am sure that with this introduction, it was love at first sight.
By the way, do you have the production date and chassis number? I was wondering if it is close to mine (January 1969 and 007749)
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The chassis number is 8037 - while the car came with a "computer card", I don't see where it has a production date on it...
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While still in Illinois, I was able to give my 97 year old aunt a ride in the car - we went to visit my mom's (her sister's) gravesite...
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The rest stop near Anaconda, Montana - the old smokestack from the mining operation is in the distance just to the left of the trees in the middle. Would have loved to have had the time to play a round of golf at the course Jack Nicklaus built nearby, but no time on this trip...
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Lastly, if you're ever passing through Wallace, Idaho, I heartily recommend the City Limits Brew Pub.
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RPS,
Thanks for the details.
I've taken a couple of cross country road trips in newly acquired very old cars.
I love that adventure.
Good for you for taking it on and I'm glad it went well !!
Too bad you didn't get together with some Chicago Pagoda owners while you were here. Although I can tell you used your time well. Maybe next time you are "driving through".
Mark
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The chassis number is 8037 - while the car came with a "computer card", I don't see where it has a production date on it...
According to the table of production dates in our Technical Manual, your car was produced in February, 1969.
Thanks for sharing your adventure and again welcome to the group.
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Thanks!
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I just rejoined after several years away from the group. I have had my 1967 230 SL in tunis beige metallic for about 20 years. It runs pretty well, but there's always things to be done. I live in San Jose in northern California and used to maintain a list of local owners and mechanics/suppliers. I always enjoy meeting other owners, so if you're in my area, let me know.
Pete S.
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👍
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Hi,
I signed up a few weeks ago and have been going over and over the site to get as much information as possible... it's a treasure trove!
I'm in the process of looking at a 68 280SL, that has belonged to my neighbor since new... However it's a contradictory little car with a lot of strange elements (USA version, but no fender riders, no headrests, etc), which this website is really helping me understand.
I've restored a couple of cars (Triumph, lotus) but nothing like this.. Trying to see if i am biting off more than i can handle.
Thanks in advance for all the help
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Hi Chris,
From the photos you posted it looks like this car needs a lot of work. Have a look at his section in our manual, put a dollar figure (even ball park will do) then decide if you want to proceed or not.
Link to pre-inspection have a read ---> https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Buying/PrepurchaseEvaluation
In the end you be better off purchasing something that needs less work, you be the judge.
Good Luck
Dieter
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Chris, welcome to the forum. A lot of help is available here.
There are several members here with Marietta, Georgia addresses. Perhaps you could contact them via private message (PM) and make contact for assistance locally with your buy decision. If you click on "Members" at the top of this page you will find a membership list which can be sorted by location. Take a look at those in Marietta, GA and try to make contact by PM.
Some Marietta members may see your post here and contact you or respond to your post here but it is worth a try to send a PM.
Best of luck with your ourchase decision and again, welcome to the group.
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Chris,
Welcome. The headrest, bumper over-riders, firewall pad etc, are non-issues compared to the RUST. If you can provide more photos or more description of the rust it would help. From the one photo I can't identify where that rust is so can't be clear on what has been eaten away -- it appears really bad, but I could be wrong as not able to judge it without more context. That is your big issue. Be very careful with rust. Post more photos if you can.
Best,
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Thank you for all the feedback.
It's a bit of a strange situation, as my friend and neighbor(in her late 80's) has had the car in her family since new (it's 1 owner). She doesn't want to sell it, but it's sitting on her driveway and will rot away if nothing is done to save it. As i mentioned, I'm new to the Pagoda world, but love 60/70 cars and feel it should be saved. I don't like to talk about money, but she declined a what i think was a very high offer, but has offered it to me for a low amount (given what it is). I want to research, understand the total costs and then hopefully offer her a fair price for it, with the promise that she gets to drive it once restored.
I will for sure search and find local members in the Atlanta area; that is a brilliant idea. Thank you.
The rust is mostly the floorpans. The car was in a garage near the beach in Florida; it generally looks ok apart from that. the rust appears to be surface otherwise. I will for sure be taking it to a professional SL specialist to assess...
Thank you again for all the help and I apoligise for the stupid questions.
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Chris, welcome to the group. After looking at your pictures all I can say is "yep - thats where they rust" don't worry about accepting her lower offer to purchase the car - you will spend it in the restoration. These cars are a real hoot. If you have done a rusty TR6 you will be in familiar territory with the pagoda.
If you can afford it - go for it. Its just time and money and these cars really kick butt on the British Cars in terms of comfort.
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K&K Manufacturing makes replacement panels. I had all new floors put in a while ago. It wasn't cheap, but now I don't have to look at the road going by under my feet!
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Hello SL Drivers..
Hope this is the right place to post my introducion..
I am a new member here.. so I will introduce myself . My name is Juergen and I am living in Duesseldorf / Germany. I just bought a 1971 280SL that was bought to Germany 9 years ago from my brother. The car was originaly from Montana .. " 3 something ranch" ..
I can say, that I love the sandmet. colour with the dark brown top. I hope that I will have a lot of fun with this beatiful car- which is still unwelded ( also no need to think about ! )
Greetings Juergen
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Juergen,
Welcome to the group! I think you will find it quite an informative and friendly place.
I am curious about your comment "-which is still unwelded" Is the car in pieces, does it need some rust repair??
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I think he means 'never been welded' as a sign of 'never any rust'. Although technically all cars were welded during production. But in Europe 'never been welded' is a way to promote rust-free cars.
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Aha! I continue to learn. Thanks for the explanation.
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Second time around with a pagoda, I owned one from 1990 t0 2011 which my wife drove almost daily. Unfortunately it began to turn to dust and was trade for another vehicle. I just bought this today, a 2 owner car with 69,000 original miles. It's a 4 speed with the optional kinder seat, though I don't know what I will do with it. The car will be joining a small collection of American, British and Italian iron I own. I look forward to the groups wisdom and hope to contribute what little I know about these cars.
Joe(http://)
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Welcome, welcome, welcome!
The group stands at the ready to assist. I would also suggest you play around with the Search function (the fourth one to the right of "Home") this will search the entire forum.
It looks like a pretty nice car! Can you post a few shots of the engine?
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This is the only one I have for now. It will need some light detailing . Thanks for the kind words.
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Hello AH,
Welcome back to the dark side :) may you have fun and safe driving always. Looks like a fine car that will keep you busy in your spare time to put her back into shape the way you wish it to be.
Best,
Dieter
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Hello Jürgen,
Welcome to our group, you find many Members here from all around the world.
Nice that you found a rust free Pagoda, we look forward to see some photos when you have a chance.
Rolf-Dieter
PS. last month I spend a few days in your fair city and visited the Classic Remise (formerly known as Meilenwerk), I'm sure you been there. I spotted a few Pagodas there also meet someone that stores his Pagoda there and drives it every day.
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..The car will be joining a small collection of American, British and Italian iron I own...
hello Joe, welcome to the group. I noticed your user ID AH53; would you happen to have a '53 healey BN1?
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Charlie
I own 3 Healey:
'53 BN1 #923 Coronet Cream
'56 BN2 Factory 100M undergoing restoration
'67 BJ8 Blue Baby since 1981
The '67 was my toy and the original SL was the wife's toy.
To all above
Thank you for the encouragement and kinds words. The car will be in my position in a week or so and I promise to follow with better pictures and a story behind the car.
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New member (kind of) from Toronto Canada.
I've been lurking on the Pagoda site for many years, signed up back in 2015, introduced myself in this section with the intention of looking for a Pagoda then I disappeared! Life has a funny way of interfering with our plans.
I've now decided to get serious about searching for and finding a Pagoda and decided to re-introduce myself to members of this forum. In the early going I'll likely be asking questions as I learn more about the cars and hope to be able to contribute more as my knowledge base grows.
For those who might be in a position to help, I'm in the market for a very high level driver/near concours car, what might otherwise be described as a high #2, low #1 car. I'm flexible on colour (no black interiors) and not too particular at this point about auto or manual transmission. My preference definitely leans to the older 230/250 series cars in European specification but ultimately condition and colour will trump other considerations if compromises need to be made.
I welcome any comments or advice on the buying process and am happy to hear from anyone who might have leads. In particular, I welcome contact from any local owners who might be willing to share their expertise and talk Pagodas. Looking forward to the search and to becoming a more active participant in the community.
Best Regards,
Paul
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Hello Paul,
Welcome back to our Pagoda SL Group. It is always nice to see another Canadian looking for a Pagoda and wanting to prolong the life of this fine automobile.
Since you are inviting comments to your plans for the search it may be more appropriate for you to start a link at the "General Discussion Forum or "Wanted To Buy" forum area (see links below). I mention this for 2 reasons,
1) this is a Introductory thread dedicated for new members like yourself
and
2) you will get input form other members based on a "Subject Topic" like "Looking for a nice Pagoda" in our "General Discussion" forum or more to the point in our "Wanted To Buy" forum area.
---> https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?board=2.0
---> https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?board=5.0
I wish you luck with your hunt for the right car.
Dieter
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Thank you Dieter, I will follow your suggestions. They say the hunt is half the fun. We'll see!
Yours looks really nice and I see that it's had work done at RM in Chatham. They are a first rate group of folks and do world class work. If you're ever in Toronto (we're near the airport) and would like to drop by our shop/office please send me a PM.
If the weather co-operates I'm also going to be at the Cobble Beach show next weekend for those forum members who might like to meet up. I was at Cobble last year. An unbeatable setting on the shores of Georgian Bay and a very well curated and presented show. Well worth the trip.
Best Regards,
Paul
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Welcome Paul!
I'm also new to the Pagoda world, I got mine through inheritance. Over the next few years will slowly get restoration work done on her.
I'm in Brampton, so very close to you.
Mike
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Thank you for posting, Mike. I've sent you a PM
Best Regards,
Paul
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rosemeyer....
"Rosemeyer ...!"
A relative to this Gentleman here?
;) :)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bernd_Rosemeyer
https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datei:Bernd-Rosemeyer-Denkmal-2.JPG
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No relation, I'm afraid. I read the story of Bernd Rosemeyer years ago when I was a teenager and it really captured my imagination. He seemed special in many ways and his marriage to famous aviator Elly Beinhorn (who passed away in 2007!) only added to the aura that surrounded him.
I've visited the stone memorial to Rosemeyer on the Frankfurt-Darmstadt autobahn a couple of times and because of him I have a habit of always referring to Audis as Auto Unions :)
Best Regards,
Paul
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Charlie
I own 3 Healey:
'53 BN1 #923 Coronet Cream
'56 BN2 Factory 100M undergoing restoration
'67 BJ8 Blue Baby since 1981
Joe, that Coronet Cream really looks great on your 53. My dad has been restoring a 54 BN1 for several years now; production date 17 Dec 53, body #1169, it too was Coronet Cream (w/blue trim) when it left Longbridge. After seeing your car I wish we had left it the original (CC) color - it's now BRG.
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Charlie
The thing about Healeys is - you do them your way- never any onus from real Healey people. One of the really unique things about the BN1 was the odd 3 speed. Did you keep it or go with the later BN2 box. post a picture I would love to see it. BTW. I hope you have it in the 100 Registry. drive it like you stole it and have fun. It is my first choice from my collection when I just want to drive and have fun.
Joe
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Hello,
I've been lurking here off and on for a couple of years. My brothers and I grew up in the backseat of, and then eventually driving, a '71 250C. Mercedes is in my blood. My DD is a '76 Euro 450SLC and I'm currently restoring a '71 350SL imported from France. I do all my own work so it can be slow as life occupies my time. It was originally a Papyrus White car with black interior but some PO painted it teal and the interior tan. Yes, painted the interior. I've sanded most of it to metal and got a couple of coats of color on it. It's just a touch thin so a couple of more coats. I'm rambling.....
Anyway, I love the Pagoda's. I first drove a 280SL straight out of high school in 1987 when I was a lot boy for a summer job. I remember that ride to this day. She was dark green with tan leather. Only 20,000 miles and perfect. Just purred. It was expensive for 1987 dollars but didn't stay on the lot very long.
So my intention is to find a project once the 350SL is done, or whenever the right car comes along. I like the older clean look of the 230's, but that's a minor detail.
Here's a couple of pictures of the current project. I have a large garage so I can set up a temporary paint booth inside when the needs arises.
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Charlie the restoration shot looks great. It's always good to see another 100 reentering the motoring world. Continued good luck.
Joe
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Hello Everybody,
As a new member my first post is to introduce myself, and my pagoda, of course !!
I am 48 years old, live in Belgium and I have inherit the 280SL 1969 of my dead father.
I know the car fairly well because I repaired the body 25 years ago ! (It was rusty and I was interested to discover these odd job!).
Now the car is still in very good condition and I decided, as new owner, to refresh the engine bay and reduce the play in the acc linkage !
So I am sure that I will need your help ! Thanks in advance.
Regards,
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Welcome to the group Jmich. Looking forward to seeing you on the site. Please post more pics of your car when you have time.
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Perfect first thread to post into!
Hi everyone!
I have recently purchased a 250SL Pagoda California Coupe spec car.
The car was sold new in Malta, so is very solid and is an original RHD car.
I am currently getting the car Registered but I could do with a bit of help.
I'm curious to know anyone knows of an historic database which would enable someone to write me a headed papered letter stating the car is authentic? And if I am able to get anything I could add to the cars history file.
Any response is greatly appreciated.
Aaron
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Hello Aaron, welcome to the Forum. Congratulations on your purchase. We look forward to seeing some pictures of your car.
You will find information on the forum regarding every aspect of your car. Try the search function (forth button from the left above) to look for information about a specific item. The Technical Manual is also a very important source of information.
I am afraid I can't help with the question you have posed. I don't think such a database exists. If you don't have it already, you can obtain the data card for your car indicating details of the manufacture. Look at the section of the Technical manual on Data Cards.
In the USA, if your car is sufficiently original, you can obtain a "Preservation Certificate" from the Mercedes Benz Club of America. I don't know if there is an equivalent group in the U.K. offering this certification to members. Please see details here:
https://www.mbca.org/silver-star-preservation-class
You might want to check this out in the U. K.
Again welcome to the group.
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Hello. I wanted to say hello from South Florida. My father and I have just purchased 2 1964 230Sl projects.
I am keeping the black one and my father is keeping the maroon one. My car is more complete but we need a few things for my fathers car. We hope to get these girls back on the road soon.
Thanks
Rene
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Rene,
Welcome. Nice to see photos. Would be great to read your story of how and why you ended up with a pair of "father and son" pagodas. Might be a first on this site, but others will correct me if I'm wrong.
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Well it's kind of an interesting story. My father and I are like best friends. He is my best friend. We also work together and we live next door to each other.
When I was growing up my father was cool. He used to have a motorcycle, he restored a Maserati 3500gt Sebring and my mom drove an Alfa spyder. Success has not come easy and along the way the cars were put aside.
i used to be in to muscle cars but then gravitated to the cars I lusted after in high school. Those were mostly Bmw and Porsches. I have been lucky enough to enjoy a many of my dream cars such as e30m3, m coupes and e36m3, 996tt, 997tt.
A few months ago my father and I decided to buy a car together. We thought it would be nice to talk about something besides work. We found a 1973 2002tii and bought it together. It has been wonderful. He taught me how to drive in a very similar car.
I was looking for 2002 parts. I called an add on Craigslist and spoke to a gentleman who sent me to another gentleman who had my parts. While talking to him about the bmw parts we exchanged pictures of our cars.
He fell in love with my 1963 corvette and I fell in love with the black 230 sl. In later conversations the maroon car was mentioned. I drove 500 miles to see the cars and we worked out a deal to trade my corvette plus cash for both roadsters.
Years ago we tried to buy a 280sl from my mothers coworker but it didn't work out. These were meant to be.
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What good fortune finding these two and what a great story! Keep us posted as you work through getting them sorted.
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Yes, welcome to the group Infanterene!
Lots of help available.
Please post some photos when you get a chance. We all just love to see the pictures!
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It's official!!
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Hey Everyone,
My wife and I have had this W113 for around 10 years but it has lived sheltered in her parents heated garage in Germany for the last 8 or so years, we decided last week that enough was enough and to pay for another parking space where we live in London and drive the car regularly, having such a nice car and no time in the seat felt like a shame.
Its a 1970 280 Auto with Sand gold exterior and red interior :)
(https://i.imgur.com/vJbrA6o.jpgl)
(https://i.imgur.com/Jhzwpvi.jpg)
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Welcome to the group!
Please post a shot of the interior. That would seem to be a rather rare combination.
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Yes I want to see pics of the color combo too. Very interesting
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Hi all - I rejoined after a few years of being unable to commit hands-on time to my Pagoda, that I have owned for nearly 8 years. I am now refocused on getting my '69 113.044 280SL 4-speed US spec cleaned up and running smoothly. The catalyst for realizing I need to devote more time to doing this myself, was when my 'classic car' maintenance mechanic said that a spell of rough running indicated that 'it needs a new engine': er, no, it did not need a new engine - I just needed to replace the ignition leads and it ran just fine. So as of now (start of NJ no-driving season) I have a box of nitrix gloves to hand, the hood is off, car on my lift, shocks /dampers replaced, all AC remnants out, and most of the front end accessories off - I am aiming to resolve some old oil leaks, clean up belt routing, new hoses, etc. and give it a good clean. Thanks to the support on the forums I think I am slowly winning.
--Charles
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Welcome back Charles. From your post it appears you are off to a good start getting your car back into top shape. Keep us posted over the winter as you progress with your work. We would love to see some pictures of your progress.
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Welcome back again Charles,
I've posted to you last week a re-welcoming package with our latest Pagoda World Magazine and 2 of our new Windshield stickers. It should arrive in a day or so. Best of luck with your car and as Ralph pointed out, do. start a new thread and let us know the progress over the winter. Ask questions if need be, as you know we have many Members that are eager to help.
Once again Welcome back!
Best Dieter
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My name is Brad Currie and I am a second generation Mercedes fan. However, neither I nor my father owned any SLs. Through the ownership of near 70 Mercedes dating back to 1959 we held the view that the sedans rode better and could be shared, not to mention the utility of a car larger than an SL. My father and I shared the experience of many Mercedes models that included many W108/9s all with the 4.5 and 6.3 liter V8s but never owned a Mercedes with the M130 that is featured in the 280 SL. This last year I bought a 1971 280 SE base model W108.018 with the M130 MFI engine. While I cannot add to or get anything from the body, trim and suspension sections of this site the information available here on the M130 has proven invaluable to my efforts to revitalize my car as a daily driver. If presented with an opportunity to acquire an interesting SL at an interesting price in the future, knowing this site is here would make that decision easier and I am sure much more enjoyable.
Brad
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Welcome Brad to our site nice to have you in the Group. You have come to the right site our Technical Manual as well as our Members will be of great help should you seek help.
Best,
Dieter
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Hello, New member here from Minnesota. I have been lurking for some time. Registered today to post my new journey. Hoping to someday acquire a Pagoda and currently tracking one from 26 years ago that resided in a church parsonage's garage. It was a '66 silver car when I saw it in 1992. My wife and I were married in the adjacent church that year. Today I had lunch with my life long friend, the Padre that performed our wedding ceremony, and I asked him about the car. Stored there for the owner as he was overseas, in later years the car was moved to a barn where mice had taken up residence. When the owner returned to the states the car was in fact sold in 2004 and was not in the best of shape. Word has it that the car continued to be stored in the afore mentioned barn even after the sale. Padre is making some calls this evening to get the latest.
My collection of cars, while small all have a history and a story. To me the heritage and the journey of a car is just as important as the car itself.
While I am happy to see the market has seemingly more than tripled on the SL Pagodas since 1992, there seems to be, as of a late, a cooling-off, at least from what I have been reading.
Thankful for this site and the publications associated with it. I'll post an update on the Parsonage Pagoda as they are available.
Warm Regards,
Jacob
12/18/17- Update- The update is nothing to update. After having left a couple of voice mails for the previous owner no calls have been returned. If anyone has a Silver '66 Pagoda that resided in Minnesota in the 80's and 90's please send me a note.
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Welcome Jacob to the Group,
The chase is sometimes as much fun as the restoration or ownership.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Welcome to the group Jacob. I wish you luck in bringing the “Parsonage Pagoda” into your collection?,
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Jacob,
Let me add my welcome to the group. You have discovered a great community of people at the ready to help with your car and quest.
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"The chase is sometimes as much fun as the restoration or ownership."
How true! I first tried to buy my 230SL from the original owner in 1989. A friend and client with a faster draw and fatter checkbook beat me to it. Every time he came in to do business with me I would ask, "Hey Marvin, you ready to sell that Mercedes yet?" 14 years later he rang me up and asked, "Hey Mike, you ready to buy that Mercedes yet?"
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Hello from germany,
my name is Wolfgang an I live in the nice town Münster , I 'm a fan of the Pagoda for many years, had some in the 80's and 90's, now i'am back as a owner of these beautiful cars again .
I bought my 280 SL, US import in holland a year ago, there some little things to fix, but overall a very nice and rustfree example .
Every other year I visit the states , mostly I visit california and Texas where my brother lives in the hill country near san antonio .
As another classic I drive a 86 300SL Typ 107 .
What I read here shows this is an exellent place to talk about the beautiful pagoda,
Best regards
Wolfgang
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Wolfgang,
Welcome to the group!
What part of California do you visit? There is a large group here in San Diego, and would be very glad to be able to meet you if you come to this area.
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Jonny,
most of my visits go to the area south of LA, Danapoint, San Clemente Beach , Carlsbad, so I will be arround the corner, i would really appriciate to meet some Pagoda friends.
As soon as I know when my next visit will be I will let you know, right now we have typically grey ugly winter weather here in germany and the radio played " california dreaming " from the mamas and papas . :(
Best regards
Wolfgang
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Right around the corner indeed! I am in San Marcos, two towns to the east of Carlsbad.
Have a wonderful holiday season! And keep us posted.
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Welcome to our Group Wolfgang,
You live about 1/2 hour from my brother. Last July I visited my brother. Also perhaps you know Heinrich B. He lives in Georgsmarienhütte,and he is a member of the Pagodetreff.de site. I was fortunate last July to travel with Heinrich and his wife (with two Pagoda’s) to Enkirch to be part of the 2017 Mosel Tour and meet many fine Members of the Pagodetreff.de group.
Once again Welcome,
Dieter
Fröliche Weinachten und einen guten Rutsch ins Neue Jahr!
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Hello all,
icebone here, new member (just joined) in Menlo Park, CA (Bay Area / Silicon Valley). I'm hoping to get my first pagoda shortly -- I will post some questions about the one I'm looking at in the general discussions. Merry Christmas all!
Cheers
icebone
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Icebone
Merry Christmas to you! Welcome to the group.
Be sure to make sure of the search function, there is a wealth of information out here, and a friendly cadre of folks just waiting to answer questions.
And of course - post pictures, we just love pictures.
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Hi all,
I have been a member for some time while I researched my first Pagoda. I didn’t limit my search to 280’s but it is what I ultimately purchased. I was looking for a rust free, as original as possible but most importantly correct in any work done on the car. Obviously hard to find especially with a budget in mind. I looked at or had some one look at a dozen or two.
I found my car in Las Vegas his fall. It was consigned to a collector car dealer but I dealt directly with the owner. It is a 1969 280SL with 80,000 original miles. Color is blue (903H) with MB- Tex parchment (145) interior. The car had a bare metal repaint along with some other work (windshield, new body rubber seals, leather seats) back in 2007. The car is in very good shape but once I get it out of winter storage I have some things I want to work on and sort out. Overall very happy with my purchase and now being a “true” member of this fine group.
I will post a few photos.
Regards,
David Martine
Annandale, NJ
1969 280SL, 903H, 145
2014 CLS 550C
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Folks,
A few more pictures of my recent purchase. It is definitely a hard color to photograph.
David Martine
1969 280SL, 903H, 145
2014 CLS550C
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Welcome to the Group David,
It looks like a very nice Pagoda, congratulations on your buy.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Congratulations on your recent purchase David and welcome to the group. The car looks great.
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Let me add my congratulations on finding what appears to be a very nice Pagoda. And, of course, welcome to the group! Keep us posted on your "things I want to sort out" process.
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A few pictures
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Welcome back to our Group Aashish! Glad to see you managed to get your Full Membership Renewal set up again.
Looks like a nice car you found, good luck with everything.
Dieter
PS. If you like to update your Pagoda World Magazine collection (looks like you missed 1 or 2~ during your short absence) I give you the link below showing the ones we have Back issues of. We now issue 2 PW each year our last one was #21. As you know we not only have great stories in our magazine, also good tehnical information on our cars as shared by our members. You should get your next one around March.
Check here ---> https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=11537.0
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Hello,
I have a 71 280 sl 4 speed w/ac, with hardtop. 82k original miles. I look forward to helpful tips. This car has been in my family since 1972 and was a California car till 5 years ago when it came to Texas and is tucked away.
David
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David,
Welcome! I am sure you will find what you are looking for regarding a Pagoda here.
I would highly recommend you get familiar with the main search function, just to the right of the "home" button, it will be you friend.
And of course, post some pictures, we just love to see pictures!
Good luck.
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Hello,
My name is Jose Altuve .....now I became FULL Member.
I used to have a 280SL 1971 when I was living in Venezuela....past century :)
Currently I don't have a Pagoda ....not yet ......looking for a 280SL 1971 gold,tan leather,ivory steering wheel and standard shift..........is not that much.
I live in Texas but currently in South Florida visiting grand children where I hope to meet some of the Pagoda owners.
I have not spotted a Pagoda on Miami streets...........but sure some of them will show up in a moment.
Best wishes for all the group and good luck in life !
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Welcome to the Group Jose,
As I think has been said to you before, don't necessarily limit your your search to the needle in the haystack and thus potentially miss on a really good vehicle because it is the wrong colour or wrong model of the Pagoda. Each has its own + and - and owner ship of any one of them is good.
Seek the help of the member here especially if you think you have one you are willing to buy, we will all point out its faults that helps in negotiation and a final decision to buy.
And last but definitely not least, we love photos here so post up photos for all to see when you find the one.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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:) Hello everyone,
I have a 66' 250Sl back in my possession after several years (long story...) and I am grappling with the daunting task of undergoing a full refurbishment/restoration. I am in the San Diego (north county) area and wound really appreciate any help from the locals to begin my adventure. This site is fantastic as I visited here frequently around 15 yrs ago and now I am back!
Cheers
Mauricio
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Welcome back Mauricio. We are patient readers if you want to recount your "long story." All the best with your refurbishment/restoration. You will find a lot of help in the tech manual and from experts here on the forum....and, we love pictures!
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Mauricio,
There are a number of us crazy people here in North County SD. That would be very willing to pitch in a hand. Just contact me through the forum, and we can work from there.
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Thanks Garry.
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Thank you for the kind welcome. Jonny, I will be reaching out to you soon!
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Hi All,
I am a new member as of January 2018 and live in San Diego. I have a 69 280SL automatic with a/c that I found next to a barn in Santee, CA 20 years ago. I have enjoyed driving it throughout the years and never expected the price to jump as much as it has in recent years. I am currently restoring the car completely but taking my time to do it right. I have had Hjeltness Restoration do the work to date, Eric has been very helpful and a wealth of knowledge. Hjeltness is located in Northern San Diego county and is very well known in the MB community. Always enjoy stopping by and talking shop. Here is a picture with 2 magnificent vehicles that Eric has worked on, maybe one day I can add one of these to my collection. Last thing is paint and interior and my 280 will be fully restored. The original color is 903H so I have been painting everything with 903 blue while restoring, engine bay, wheel wells, undercarriage, etc. Looking forward to getting to know everyone and sharing info.
Tony
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Welcome to our Group Tony! 903H is a very nice colour and it is the colour of my car. I have received many positive comments about the colour over the years tat i have this car. The main thing is the driver likes the colour :)
I attach a photo so you may see what yours will look like after painting.
Once again, Welcome
Dieter
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Good evening,
my name is Giorgio (primaale), I live in Italy and I have finally bought a PAGODA 280 SL coupè dated 1968
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Welcome Tony and welcome Giorgio. You will find much information and comraderie here.
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Welcome Giorgio to our truly International Group as Cees mentioned you will find many helpful Members here from all around the world in fact if you wish to find out how many Members we have form Italy all you need to do is check our "Member" area
When you log in you will see one pull down menu called “Members” when you click on it you will have 2 options “View the memberlist” and “Search for members”
When you click on “View the memberlist” it will open for you and is displayed as a alphabetically sorted list (with members that used numbers in there ID first). You can sort the entire list to anything you like.
To find other members in your area here is what you have to do;
If you open the memberlist and click on “Location” you will then have sorted the entire data base by “Location” The first 25 pages or so are International countries (page numbers depend on the size of your computer device display). Anyway, you can now page thru the pages until you find Itally (near Page 12 and 13).
Have fun and post some photographs of your find, we all love to see them. :)
Dieter
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Hello there gents.. :)
Mihael from Munich, Germany, 31 years old but a car enthusiast since i was wearing diapers I suppose. :-\
I am a BMW and Corvette fan, never really understood the Mercedes vibe, I suppose I was too young to know better, but as a business partner of mine gave me a ride in his 230SL last year, I knew that very moment I had to have one!
Last week I stumbled upon this poor girl in Berlin and just had to have her, the previous owner dismanteled her and sanded the body as he wanted to start a restauration but unforunately passed away, so the car just stood there uncovered for a few years..
I know there's a lot of work ahead of me, but they deserved to be saved!!
Here is my Pagoda 250SL simbolically named "Rusty"
(https://s7.postimg.org/3qsf9rsh7/20180311_124815.jpg)
As I start with the restoration I will definetely start my own topic..
Wish me luck guys!
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Hello Michael,
Welcome to our Group, you certainly come to the right place to get all the help you might need with poor Rusty :)
We are a true International Group and if you like to find helping hands near you all you need to do is explore our “Members” Tab above select the Member Listing then click on “Location” this will sort our Members dBASE by “Location” Page tru the pages you will come to Germany showing Members in or near your area.
Once you start your Restauration it would be a good idea to start your own Thread and post plenty of pictures along with any questions that you might come across (there are similar posts here where Members show the progress they make or are still making to restore there car). Of course once you get into the Restauration a good investment would be to take out the Full Membership .... it would be the best investment you can make for only cents per day you gain full access to our Technical Manual as well as all the benefits that come with Full Membership.
Nice to see another Pagode/Pagoda rescued .... Good luck with your peoject and have fun.
Once again Willkommen zu unserer Seite!
Dieter
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Hello Mihael, welcome to the forum. From the single picture you posted, I can tell you have a lot of work ahead. You will find a lot of help here. I recommend a thorough tour of the site, particularly the technical manual. The main search function, fourth button from the left above, will be extremely important to you. Some experimenting there will pay big dividends. We look forward to following your restoration.
Again, welcome.
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Hi all,
after taking advance of this tremendous Site for the last 10 years, i finally became a full member... ;-)
After starting in 2008 with a lovely w111 coupé, i purchased a 280SL, sort of a "barnfind project" in 2015 which hit the road again in 2017...
after lots of tinkering, welding, engine revision, etc...most of the stuff (except paint job and machine work on the motor) i did by myself as a weekend distraction from office work... ;-)
Thanks again to this forum and the friendly people for helping me along with lots of good explications and hands-on description of numerous topics...
Regards from Germany
Andreas
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Welcome to full membership Andreas, € well spent!!
Please keep us posted as you move forward with your project!
By the way, what will your final color(s) be?
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Andreas,
Yes, welcome to the group. Great photo!
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Well done Andreas ! Welcome to our Group.
Sterngrüße aus Kanada,
Dieter
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Gentlemen,
thanks for the warm welcome, really appreciate it!
@ Ralph: actually the car is already (nearly...) finished, it´s the one on the first Picture.
Color Code is 904, dark blue also for hardtop, softtop also is dark blue, interior is leather 254, parchment and carpet is 7006, dark Grey, all according to original specs, suits my taste by the way...
;-)
still having some minor issues here & there but Overall big fun driving through our small mountains...
next big thing (probably in autumn) may be the installation of the 6-gear tranny...
Andreas
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Back on the Group after a long hiatus (last post was June 2007!).
Sadly thinking of selling my 1964 230SL, but seeing such great posts here, having second thoughts.
It's good to be back.
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Lowell Paddock here, new member from NW CT in the US. I bought my weissgrau 4-speed 1966 230SL off the floor of the Essen motor show in 1999 while I was working in Frankfurt for General Motors. The car has an interesting history. It was originally delivered to a French teacher who traveled regularly to teach in Madagascar and would store the car in Paris while he was overseas. Its second owner, also a French teacher, but based in Claremont, California, happened upon the car in Annecy, France, in 1979 and brought it back to Claremont. He is a multiple W113 owner and I remain in contact with him. He sold it locally to the athletic director of Pomona college, who then sold it to a German dealer who had a 'scout' in Southern California. And that's how it wound up at Essen.
While working in Germany, I had the good fortune to meet up with Walter Pusch, the ex service manager of the massive Mercedes dealer in Mainz, outside Frankfurt. Herr Pusch and his son Markus run arguably the most competent Mercedes restoration shop in the Rhein-Main area. After leaving Germany for China, the car remained under in Herr Pusch's professional care and in the early 00s, it underwent a full restoration, including an engine rebuild as well. Sadly I had to sell my beloved Alfa Junior Z 1600 to fund the work, but I'm very happy with the result.
I repatriated from Asia to the US last year and last month I arranged to ship the car from Mainz to the US I'm looking forward to driving it from Charleston to our house in New England some time this month. I've attached a photo of the car as it sat in the port at Antwerp in April.
Always interested in the restoration of W113s and their individual idiosyncrasies (particularly tracking down the parts that are specific to French export models). If anyone else has a French market 230SL, I'd be very happy to hear from them.
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Halftrack, Welcome back to the Group! Do keep that car, if you sell it the money will quickly disappear :)
lowpad, Welcome to our truly International Pagoda SL Group ,,, soon you should recieve your welcoming package.
Dieter
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I repatriated from Asia to the US last year and last month I arranged to ship the car from Mainz to the US I'm looking forward to driving it from Charleston to our house in New England some time this month.
Welcome to the group, lowpad! Great Story! When you get settled with your car in New England, please post some recent pictures.
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Dear All,
my name is Jürgen - my pagoda is a 280SL 1970 - US Version. Bought the car last year. I do the maintance by myself and luckily I found this informative forum.
Best regards from switzerland
Jürgen
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Welcome to our International Pagoda SL Group Jürgen, best of luck with your car and post some Photos when you can of your car.
Best,
Dieter
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Thanks Dieter. I look forward to familiarizing myself with all the new information since 2007.
Mark (Halftrack)
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Very glad am I to have become a member in the Pagoda Group with my 1966 230SL manual 4 Spd., no AC, European version in Claret Red Pearl - actually my passion for the Pagoda goes back to Geneva 1963 (I was 12 then) when my dad and I went to that Geneva Autosalon (it was a reward for having passed the entrance exam into the Gymnasium (grammar school) in Zurich, Switzerland) and first saw the (I remember the red) 230SL - three years later, in Feb. 1966, my dad traded in the 220S (Fin sedan) for the 230SL I now own since 1995. Moreover, I recall memorable drives with my father, e.g. in August 1966 up the (then) newly opened through-going 190km of (pristine) Autobahn from Basel CH up to Karlsruhe - some of it at the top speed of 195 km/h (we had the hard top on) - but most of it on up to Denmark at 120 to 130 km/h.
I decided when I inherited the car (in less than good condition) in 1995 to bring it back to the best condition I could - and could afford - myself - and enjoy it as a "driver" not a Sunday afternoon show car. And, since 2010 I have been driving the car mainly over long distances (down to Palm Springs once or twice a year, out to Vancouver whenever I can) and as often as I can in search of the "Loneliest Roads" in Western Canada and the US. Not only does the car (as y'all know as well or better than I) get nice kudos and compliments - but also occasional offers to purchase - and even marriage (no doubt more attributable to the car than the owner) ! At the MB dealership here in Edmonton (I still get some parts through them, but never again service !) Yours Truly is known as their "client from heck" because of the 230SL - and the wise salespersons who think I would never be as happy or "feel the road" as well in a new Benz !
Here some Favorites as characteristics:
Favorite Road to Drive (so far): US Route 12 from Missoula MT over the Lolo Pass and down the Lochsa River Valley through Idaho - 300 km of wonderful serpentine curves (50 to 120 km/h ones) down to Lewiston ID and Clarkston WA
Favorite Road Sign: Next Services 180 Miles !
Loneliest Road (so far): NOT US Route 50 East-West through Nevada as claimed by the AMA - but instead about 190 miles on Routes 233 (In NV) & 30 (in UT) from Oasis NV over to Tremonton UT
Pet Peeve: The rusted, beat up truck that is parked eleven inches from the Pagoda - in a parking lot with about 300 empty spaces.
Favorite Catchphrase for the Pagoda: An Antelope among a herd of Buffalo
Favorite Place to Hang Out and Show Off : In front of the Ibis Cafe' in Logan UT.
Most severe weakness: Going on and on and on about MB 113s !
Glad to be with you in the SL Pagoda Group, and hope to meet y'all at the next PUB (in San Diego ?)
Cheers,
Chris Zeiss
PS - Rolf-Dieter, you might recognize the location of the pics - in front of the Strathcona Library in Old Strathcona, Edmonton !
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Welcome to the Group Chris, Great story on your attachment to your Pagoda.
Lots of great stories here on original owners or passed down Pagodas.
See you in San Diego next year, maybe in my Pagoda from Down Under.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Welcome to the croup Chris, your introductory story is great! 🙂
Looking gorward to your active participation on the forum. Your pagoda appears to be in fine form!!
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Chris, thanks for sharing your story. I don't imagine there are many of us owners who actually attended the 1963 Geneva Motor Show and saw the first 230SLs!
I also own a 230SL built in 1966. It has been in our family since 1970, when my father bought it in Southern California, slightly used. I bought it after graduating from college in 1981. I had it fully restored several years ago and enjoy driving it on the back roads of Europe. It brings back memories of my parents every time I get behind the wheel. It's our family heirloom.
Yours is a beautiful color. I hope I have the chance to see it someday. Eventually I will return to the USA to retire somewhere, and I plan to put on a lot of miles exploring some of those North American back roads.
Cheers,
Brian Akre
The Hague
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Hi Chris,
Great Story! I told you it be fun to post it here as you can see it is a very popular thread started by one of our founding Members and former Presidents Cees Klumper, Read more then 405K times so far.
Your story is indeed fascinating as are so many others in this thread here.
Once again Welcome to our Pagoda SL Group!
Best
Dieter
PS. Check your mail I posted info to you how to add a Personalized Photo as an Avatar. Yes I do recognize the very spot your car is parked in the photos above, having lived in Edmonton 27 years since migrating to Canada 1n 1957 as a young man I know Edmonton very well.
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Dear Colleagues,
thanks for your welcoming words and anecdotes of your connection to the Pagodas. Nice to hear that other folks too have moved Pagodas back and forth between continents. Goude middag, Brian in NL, Gruezi Jurgen i'dr Schwyz , Gruess Gott in (Sued-) Deutschland !
I wonder what y'alls views would be on (and I'm the or a wrong guy to say it !) whether the 113 Pagodas were or are the most attractive body/chassis that MB ever made ? That might raise quite a controversy - surely I recognize that the 540Ks and the later SSKs as well as the Gullwing 300 SL would be right up there in contention.
Maybe a topic to be disused over a glass of wine at a PUB,
Anyway, I sometimes float (or flout) it in talks with other veteran car owners.
Cheers,
CAZ
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Welcome. May be able to give you some good news about your differential. It is supposed to be checked with wheels on the ground in normal position. If checked while on a frame lift, the axles angle down, oil level goes lower and can give a false low reading. I had a shop who didn't know this, they believed differential was almost empty, and were going to refill with oil. Turned out they were wrong. Of course the rubber diff seal is known to fail or tear, so you may have an actual problem. I'm sure there are more knowledgeable people on this site that can confirm or dispute my statements.
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Hello all!
New member here, just signed up. I own a 280SL since 1982. I bought it in Germany and brought it with me to the US in 1988. It has chassis number 22774 and was first registered on December 6, 1970. It was a present from a Frankfurt/Germany fur dealer to his wife.
I am working on it right now and hope to get some help here to get the car back on the road. It has been parked for 20 years due to a driveability issue.
Will post details in another section
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My name is Arthur Poole and I live in Virginia Beach. I am retired Navy and a civil engineer by profession.
I just purchased a 1970 280SL one family car which essentially had not been not driven (88K miles in total.) since 2003. The last state inspection was in Aug 2012 and the car had not moved from the garage (at all) since then. The body and paint are exceptional as is all chrome...no rust or past body work other than a pushed up left bumper upright which I believe was done while stored. The interior is all original with really good leather and like new carpet. Also has the Frigiking AC. Body color is a soft yellow with red (maroon) interior, a maroon hardtop and maroon wheel stencils.
First chore is to get engine running. So far that means a new fuel pump and gas tank. No idea whats coming next but I hope to see it running in the next two weeks. My goal is simply to have a good looking, reliable "driver" in which to have fun and enjoy the envy of younger guys as I am 82 years old.
This is my third MB after a 68 220D and a 450SEL. My previous sport cars included an 03 Toyota MR2 Spyder, three Alfas, all of which I restored and an Austin Healey 100/4 which I bought in 1958. But I am really excited about this 280SL..
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Welcome Arthur! Have fun re-commissioning it and then enjoy it. There is nothing like a Pagoda for putting a smile on your face going down the road, and putting smiles on the faces of the people who see you as you go by.
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Hello SL owners and SL lovers.
My name is Eric Verkaik, I'm 51 years old and I am new in the Pagode SL world.
As many people I nearly bought a Pagode some 15 years ago, but somehow didn't and now I will try again.
Only with completely different prices. :o
I'm searching in The Netherlands, Belgium an Germany, but I already know there are is lot of mess on the market.
Last three years I did a complete overhaul of a Volkswagen T1 (Split Window) bus
It started once as a closed bus but now it is a camper with a lifting roof.
I have done the disassembly, welding and building myself, but I hope to find a Pagoda with less work. ;D
For those who are interested, here is a complete photo overview with more than 1000 photos:
https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipNzAkuBjFcaxokkL_RuSu3dG8vvXX2E_NIe-xgG3AWO6pJp9Ihr8rhHPgRpfS3IMw?key=dnNUbXd5VW1qRm9GZU9mTkd4NDE3d0xOano0cjZ3 (https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipNzAkuBjFcaxokkL_RuSu3dG8vvXX2E_NIe-xgG3AWO6pJp9Ihr8rhHPgRpfS3IMw?key=dnNUbXd5VW1qRm9GZU9mTkd4NDE3d0xOano0cjZ3)
I hope to learn a lot here and as soon I have found one, I also want to make a topic with the overview of my project.
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Welcome to the Forum Eric. Wishing you success in finding a Pagoda that meets your needs. When you find something that interests you, be sure to consult the Forum on any questions that come up.
Your Volkswagen looks great. Congratulations on the quality of restoration.
Again welcome.
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That Volkswagen restoration is top notch, it must be working nicely as a camper. I'm sure Garry here will like it.
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Yep, I saw it and drooled over the pictures. I wish. Looks like a great job. Mine is back in workshop having rear axle changed to a non reduction hubs one and fixing a gear box problem. Its never ending with an old VW. New ones on the other hand are the bees nees..
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Hello Rolf Garry and members,
My introduction, i join as full member today. main reason was at 72 years old, my wife and i sold our
stock original 84 Porsche Carrera 3.2 only 43000 miles,and wife was never that happy driving it,
so about a month ago we purchased 65 230SL automatic that she can drive alot better.
Ex CA and alot of items to make right, but its a good driver and we love it.
Born in NewZealand lived in Sacramento for 10 years, then moved to Australia.
Have owned dozens of all makes and model cars ,over the years.
love to get support here and help others with all classic car related topics ,.
Thank you---Jeanette and Wayne Robson.
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Hello everyone. My dad had a 64 230SL as his daily driver until he remarried. His new wife had trouble getting in and out of the car so in 2002, the car was parked in the garage and never used again. Every time I came home to visit, he would ask me to get the car to start. Every time, all I had to do was charge the battery and the car would turn over and start. Don't know why but he never drove it. In 2015 he shipped the car to me. I was working lots of hours and never did anything with it, until now. I just last week got the car on the road after a couple of frustrating months of making it roadable again.
The brakes were sticking and consequently difficult to disassemble and clean. The worst was the leaking fuel pump ( the original tall pump). I found a rebuild kit for it but had a very hard time disassembling the old pump without damaging it; screws were breaking and the body sections were almost impossible to separate after all the years and corrosion. Finally the car was ready for the road! After a brief test drive I offered to take my wife to dinner in it. Part way to the restaurant, the car overheated and we cam home in a tow truck! I cured that condition by replacing the thermostat.
I have about 500 local miles on the car now and am really enjoying it! I live in Idaho and cars have always been an interest of mine. Looking forward to learning more about these cars from the participants of the forum.
Rick Katucki
Eagle, Idaho, USA
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Welcome, Rick--
One thing you have possibly discovered is these cars don't like to sit for long periods of time...my guess is there is still a bit of sorting to do. You'll find lots of information here and friendly people to deliver it.
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After only a couple of days, this site has been invaluable in getting the car sorted. Saved me a lot of 'figuring out'. Thanks to all who contribute to the forum and the tech info.
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Hello Pagoda people
I've just acquired a 230SL which I bought at auction. A bit of a risk going down that route, but having done the appropriate due diligence on the car it all looked good, and it's now tucked away in the garage alongside it's stablemate - TVR Chimaera.
Whilst the bodywork was all restored, the engine did not come within the scope of works, and so not being mechanically minded, I will be wanting to get the car thoroughly checked over. Thus far just the one issue has come to light in that it was over-fuelling which my local specialist has adjusted but recommended that someone more skilled that they recalibrate the fuel injector pump. From my reading of the forums over the last few months suggest Colin Ferns in the person to go to.
Anyway enjoying the ride so far
Peter
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Welcome to Pagoda ownership. Nice looking Car.
Yes Colin is a well recommended Mercedes Restoration workshop and also a Full Member of the Group here.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Welcome to the group Peter. Your car looks very nice. We hope your problems under the bonnet turn out to be minor. Keep us posted.
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My 2 daughters are now finished University, so good timing to add another car to my "old car" collection. I started with a 1930 Ford Model A. I think the fact Henry Ford built it 2 hours from where I live in London Ontario Canada inspired that choice. Next I thought I should get something a little newer and faster. During Trips to California in the past, I always admired the Pagoda I would sometimes see on the streets as a good looking car that was very classy. Couldn't find any for sale in Canada, but did find a nice white 1967 250SL near Cleveland Ohio. Bought it & exported it home before Trump puts tariffs on Pagodas. It has been so much fun to drive! I have attached a picture of my 2 cars sharing a "bunk bed" in the garage. Also thought I'd share a link of my car's match starring in a new french perfume advertisement... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xmZ12A86kdE
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Welcome to the group jehugh and thanks for posting the link! :)
You will find the forum hospitable and full of information that you can put to use.
We look forward to seeing pictures of your 250SL on the road.
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Hi Ralp,
Hugh will be replacing me as Membership Director for North America . He lives about 2 miles from my residents. I had the pleasure of welcoming in my home. I’m sure we will take many sunny short drives together.
Best Dieter
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Welcome to the group. You will not regret joining
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........Hugh will be replacing me as Membership Director for North America........
Thanks Dieter, I had read about Hugh taking your job as membership director but when I read his post just above I did not tie his site name to the other threads where this was spelled out. Now I know.
Again, welcome Hugh!
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Greetings to all the members of this forum from Montevideo, Uruguay!
:)
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Hugh, Welcome to this great forum and congratulations on your position as membership director and thanks to Dieter for the great job he did. You have a great combination of cars in your garage and I took particular interest in your '30 Model A. Back in 1960 I was only 16 when I drug one home out of a field and spent the next couple of years restoring it. It was a great learning experience for sure. I did most of the mechanical work and body work but the final product was done at a body shop. Looks pretty similar to yours with Tacoma Cream wheels :) I only kept for a few years as it was not really practical as daily driver.
John
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Hello John, thanks for welcoming me! Great story/pictures about your Model A discovery in a field at age 16 & doing the restoration. Wow! Great way for a young person to learn about automobiles! They are great to learn on and have the simplicity of things like Henry used gravity as your fuel pump. Yes, our cars look very similar.
But when we get older & want a real challenge we get a Pagoda with advancements like a fuel pump and mechanical fuel injection to get more of a challenge? Happy holidays! Hugh
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I just registered, and here's a quick intro. I've owned MB cars since the mid 70s (1966 250S). I joined here because I'm looking at selling my 190SL and buying a W113. We are a MB family, here are the cars we own or have owned: 1957 190SL, 1966 250S, 1992 300E, 1994 C280, 2003 CLK320, 2004 E500, 2005 E500, 2006 SLK 350, 2007 S550, 2009 CLK550, 2012 GLK350, 2013 E550, 2014 GLK320. Carp, that's a lot.
I'm a long time 190SL Group member, and I was the Webmaster and Director when we brought the group out of near-bankruptcy into solvency. Today that club is very, very healthy. I've also had several articles published. I was also the MBCA Forums Admin for several years, until the idiots decided to go spend mid-6 figures in a crappy attempt to fix what wasn't broken.. Anyway.
I'm looking for a decent driver, with a stick. HAS to be with a stick. Prefer A/C, but I could add that. In the very unlikely event you happen to be looking to unload your driver W113 for a driver 190SL, please see my post under "Wanted". It's just too hot to drive a 190SL in South Texas, and with San Antonio's growth, the drivers have gotten even more crazy. I need an easier car to drive on a regular basis.
Thanks,
Bill Streep
San Antonio, TX
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Welcome to the group Bill, wishing you success in finding a W113 which meets your needs. Keep us posted.
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Bill
Yes, let me add my welcome.
And with some of the background you listed, if you have any ideas for an article (or two) for Pagoda World, I am always on the look out for those.
Good luck in your quest!
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Hi guys ! my name is Paulo and I live in country Victoria , Australia
I have the task of restoring a pagoda for the owner
still remember the first one i saw and fell in love with the roof line
thanks for the information !
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Welcome Bill ! My first car when I was 16 ears old (back in 1966) was a 1955 190SL. I drove the car everyday for about 15 years. You'll find the W113 cars very drivable by today's standards. Good wipers, heater, fuel injection, disc brakes etc. Good luck on your quest.
ja17
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Hi all, I recently joined your excellent site, having also recently bought a 230 SL....Having done my apprenticeship with Mercedes starting in 1970 I worked on and drove many Pagodas, and always thought they were special. However I joined BMW a few years later and have been a BMW person since. I always had a thing about the Padodas and I did buy a 230 SL restoration project back in the 1990`s but never had the time to do it and so it was sold. But finally I have now bought one in the USA which seems to be a very nice car but I have yet to see it in the flesh....so I hope it is. The original colour was dark blue with red leather which is exactly what I would have chosen had I bought a new one all those years ago. Compared with the classic BMW scene life looks easier with the Mercedes. Your site contains so much information, and the availability of parts seems to be very good.
I look forward to researching the history of my car when it arrives, interestingly among the documents is a factory stamped steel plate containing the engine and gearbox number, paint codes, and surprisingly the name and address of the first owner ! Was this normal ? It will certainly help to start my research.....Regards Alex.
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I look forward to researching the history of my car when it arrives, interestingly among the documents is a factory stamped steel plate containing the engine and gearbox number, paint codes, and surprisingly the name and address of the first owner ! Was this normal ? It will certainly help to start my research.....Regards Alex.
Welcome, Alex! Yes the steel plate was normal and its presence among the documents you have seen may be some evidence that the custodians of your new 230SL over the years made a good faith effort to preserve the car and its history. We all look forward to hearing more about your Pagoda once you receive it.
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Welcome to the group Alex. We are looking forward to hearing more about your 230SL when you have it home in England.
Some more on the metal plate here:
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=27645.msg198700#msg198700
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Interesting to read about people being upset at having to pay $150 to Mercedes for the Data Card info, I know many BMW owners who would gladly part with much more to get such production history for their cars.
All they can tell you is the exterior colour, date it was built and supplying dealer ! Really NOTHING else....so it is not so bad....Alex
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Hello everyone,
I'm a new member and owner of a US 1970 280SL. Not a full member yet, but will be shortly.
For those interested, here's the story of how I got the car:
I met the owner of a restaurant that I frequented (it's situated on his farm). At some point, he started building an expansion to it and I stopped by one weekend to chat with him. He told me that he needed some extra money to finish the expansion and was thinking about selling some of his farm equipment or maybe his old car. As a car fanatic, I asked to see it and he led me to a barn on the property.
The 280 was partially covered by a tarp and sat just inside the door of the barn. I saw the hood peeking out from under the tarp and had a good feeling... I swear he pulled off the tarp in slow motion. Probably like the rest of you, I fell in love with the car immediately.
He offered me a ride and we drove around town for a bit. When we got back, I told him that if he wanted to sell it, I'd buy it. And now, I'm the proud owner of a 1970 280SL.
The farmer was the 3rd owner of the car. It was in OK condition. It has some rust spots and dents. The interior and engine bay are pretty dirty. My intention was, and still is, to restore it.
After garaging it for a year, I sent it out to a specialty restoration shop, which gave me a quote that was pretty high, so I brought it back. Life got in the way and I'm embarrassed to say that it sat undriven and outside for several years. This has worsened the overall condition a bit, but not drastically.
Fortunately, I have more time now and I’m in a place where I can start working on it myself. I think I can at least do some of the mechanicals and electricals because 1…I’m young and stupid and 2…I’m an engineer.
In the next few days I’ll post a thread in the General forum and put up some pictures and write some more details about the car. I must confess that I’m a novice at this, so I’ll need a lot of help and I think this is the right place to be asking for it. If nothing else, at least I’ll be able to provide some comedy for you guys as a complete newbie tries to restore a car.
Anyways, this post is long enough. Thanks for reading and thanks for having me! I'm happy to be a part of this group.
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Welcome and the best of luck with your old/new project!
It sounds like it must have been a good runner when you first acquired it, so I might recommend getting it safely running and driving first so you can enjoy it a little bit and get a good sense of it's overall mechanical and operational condition first before you start improving it. That way you may be able to avoid spending time and money on what's sound and concentrate your expenditures on necessary improvements.
However you decide to proceed you will find a wealth of advice and encouragement here.
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Welcome Mchoi,
You certainly came to the right place and help is just around the corner. Once you become a full member you will have access to the full site and something everyone can afford at $30-/year (about 0.09 cents per day). Access to many issues have been carefully prepared by members of this site over the years. In the meantime you can make good use of the Search function of the site, for many issues have been discussed in the past.
I see you like to start a thread about your car, may I recommend to add photos along with your questions. It would be a great way to communicate or ask a question.
Good Luck and we look forward to your barn find photos and questions, to bad you had to store it outside for a few years. That is not what cars like as you I am sure know don’t like. I am sure once you start to tackle the issues one by one you will overcome them all. Being a engineer I am sure you will let others do the job to get the job done.
Best,
Dieter
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Welcome to the Forum mchoi. As Dieter says you have come to the right place. We look forward to reading the posts on your car. Be sure to record your starting point with a lot of photographs. You can post as many as you like here, four at a time. You didn't mention if your car is still in running condition after the outdoor storage. If it has been completely idle outdoors for a few years you might want to seek some advise and discuss precautions here before trying to start it.
Again welcome!
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Welcome!
Glad to see another Pagoda getting prepped to be on the road again.
There is a lot of information on the website and many people ready to help.
Be sure to familiarize yourself with the Search functionality. You can learn a lot about specific items by poking around with the search feature. Be sure to use the one in the string of items starting with "Home" on the left. The search at the top, just under the group logo, will only search on the forum you are reading. The main search will review all areas of the forums.
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Open this link ——> https://www.sl113.org/wiki/uploads/Restricted/PNv13i1.pdf
It provides a detail write up by Jon B. On our search function, scroll down and you will find it. Our search is a very powerful tool.
Dieter
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Hello all. Just joined and looking forward to starting my Pagoda quest. Have to admit I know very little on Pagodas but I can see that your site will help me tremendously on finding the right car. My garage has seen a mix of French, British, Italian and German vintage sports and rally cars over the past 40 years. The exception being a 2CV Fourgonette! I can see that a stick 230SL would appeal most, but living with traffic gridlock and a wife to appease in a major urban area is pushing me to go for an automatic. The 250SL is intriguing as it would sit in the same spot as my 1961 250 GT which will have to go. I really like dark brown and ivory as colours and would prefer to find a fully restored, former #1 car that has matured/worn to the point where I can drive it on long tours and not panic about it being left outside. Let the quest begin...
Campbell
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Hi Campbell,
First welcome to our truly International Group of the Pagoda SL Group. Also thanks for your PM, I will reply here to your question. You may have come across this thread ....
Here ——> https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=28676.0
One of our long time Members Dan Caron (Benz Dr.), is planning to arrange in August on the 24 and 25 a get together of several Pagoda owners at his shop and residence. He will be providing details soon so I recommend you keep an eye out for Dan’s thread. Dan’s Shop is near the Detroit border near Port Lampton Ontario. He is planing this event the weekend of August 24 and 25, 2019. When you read tru the above thread you will note that several Members have already shown there interest to attend. There will be some very knowledgeable long time Members there like for example our Joe Alexander from Ohio, wherevhe g=has a shop working on Pagodas for some 35 plus years, our site VP and international Membership Director (Garry) also our new Membership Director (Hugh) for North America, Hugh is a new Member like yourself and found his Pagoda last year. Garry will drop by on Dan’s Event all the way from Australia after his planned trip to California with his Pagoda then travel all the way to Ontario to attend the event at Dan’s Benz Barn (Shop). He will then drive down to Virginia and ship his car to California to attend the PagodaFest event. Between Joe and Garry there are a combined 70 plus years of very valuable experience you can find in one spot should you decide to drop by Dan Caron’s August event.
Anyway, Dan’s Shop is only a 3 hour drive from Toronto so my suggestion would be to attend the event and speak to some of the Members as well as check out our Technical Manual, there you will find a wealth of experience that Members have devoted a lot of time from the past as well as of reasoned years to help everyone. One article (unless you already saw it) is the “Pre Purchase” Check List it lists all of the important points to look for when seeking the car of your dreams. You obviously have most of this knowledge since you mentioned that several fine cars have been in your garage over the past 40 years.
Also, here in London, On. There is a “Country Cruse” event on Steve Plunket’s Golf Course and Residence. It takes place on the first weekend in June. Last year nearly 3,000 cars attended (mostly American cars, some European) over the weekend. Steve then makes his site available every Thursday for local Old-timer cars to meet. Once Dan makes his official announcements and provides details of his event I will try to get interested parties together to meet here in London at a Tim Hortons on Thursday 22, we may then arrange a drive on Friday August 23 before making our way to Dan’s place for a “Great and Meet get together”
Link to Steve’s June Event is here also you will see a get together I arranged for Hugh to meet Dan in this thread on one of Steve’s charity Thursday evenings events (herald every Thursday in the Summer ....
Here ——> https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=27556.0
My recommendations are a) this site is one where you can find most of what you are looking for b) purchase a good driver and one you can enjoy driving by this I mean get the best you can afford and c) as the years pass work on or improve items that need to be attended to by yourself or others. It is important that you enjoy the car and not have it sitting in a garage for years to get in the shape you like it to be unless that is what you like to do.
Best Wishes in you Search to find the car you seek.
Cheers,
Dieter
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Hello. I recently purchased a 1969 280SL, ivory over dark brown, with dark brown pagoda top. Automatic trans. 65,000 miles. Very nice car. I am looking to learn more about it and have been told that this is the place to be. I am going to post a few questions today.
Jim Bowersox
Annapolis, MD
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Welcome John! There are a number of Pagoda owners spread around the Washington/Baltimore area. Post some pictures of your new baby when you get a chance. I'm kind of fond of brown Pagodas myself and it sounds like yours may be Tobacco Brown!
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Campbell, How is your 250SL search going? I have one & really enjoy it! I saw you said you have a 1961 250 GT & it has to go. Is it the Ferrari California model you have? They are quite rare! Good luck, Hugh
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Funny you should ask Hugh - I'm leaving in the morning to see a 280 SL and a 230SL in eastern Ont - no luck with a 250 yet. and...
Not a Cal Spyder or ( SWB - my favourite car along with the Blue Train Bentley) but a special GT/E Coupe with one-off features. BTW my NOT RED is my vanity plate on it.
C
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Did you buy a Pagoda? I hope your trip east was productive! H
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Both cars were not as described - still looking.
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Im new to this forum having been a classic 'Porsche guy' for the past 20+ years and it is with great pleasure that I am able to announce that I have bought the exceptional '66 Pagoda 230SL that belonged to the late Mike Rutledge who was a very active form member from what I see. I feel genuinely privileged to own such a special car that Mike had clearly loved and cherished for so many years. The condition, the paperwork, the story leaves me speechless and I'm so fortune to be able to take this car forward into the future. I never knew Mike but I can see from his form activity just what an enthusiastic passionate owner he was. Well and truly my kind of guy. I purchased the car from Jim and Sean his brothers who were a delighted to deal with.
Now.... to pay respect to the knowledge of the form members here, as I said earlier Im a deeply immersed Porsche enthusiast, a time served mechanic of many years ago and I own and run our family motor trade business (commercial vehicles) but Im certainly no authority on Pagodas so I plan to build up my knowledge here on the group so please excuse any questions that may seem odd or unusual !
So here I'm … Barry Clarkson based in Glasgow, Scotland UK. Rest in peace Mike Rutledge, your legacy lives on .
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Welcome to the forum!
There are a couple of Scottish members, so reach out to them on the forum. Good to meet up with people, another big part of owning an cool old car!
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Ah great to hear there are some fellow Scots here on the forum . Meeting enthusiastic fellow owners is what it’s all about . Loving the support and enthusiasm here within the group. Great to hear from you . Thanks Barry
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Hey Campbell,
I remember seeing NOT RED at many events with you!
I've had my Pagoda for 42 years. It's in pretty good shape. PM me if you want to drop by and have a look at it and take it for a drive!
George
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Hey George. Been a while - last time I saw you our kids were in diapers. The Dino is gone - I have rejoined the FCA though and hope to bring the 250 out to some events. Would love to see your Pagoda this summer.
Campbell
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Hello NotRed,
I've perused your posts and saw your post about meeting with local members in the Toronto area, but didn't find anything about coming to Meeting of the Clans II. I hope to see you there. I know your name "NotRed" from Tomyang.net, but can't remember meeting you. I am reasonably sure we were at the same FCA annual meeting in 2008 in Toronto, but I would have been hanging around the 365GT2+2 row of cars with my car, since I had just finished my restoration.
I hope to see you in London and Port Lambton.
Tom Kizer
Levis, Quebec, Canada
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Hi Tom,
I believe I replied on March 16 about going - no matter. I don't think I was at the 2008 TO meet as I haven't been a member since the early 90s. Since then, I have been really focussed on vintage French and British rally cars. Looks like I started my 250 restoration just as you got yours done. Tom's website has been amazingly helpful. Looking forward to bringing it out after such a long hiatus. BTW my car came from Quebec. Cheers Campbell
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I have been driving a 250SL (body number 2776; serial number 3562) since 1970. It's considered a 1968 model, having been produced in August, 1967. My father bought it new in November, 1967, from the San Francisco Mercedes dealer. He drove it 15,000 miles before giving it to me as a wedding present. It is light blue (334 G), four speed, both tops, and now 160,000 miles. It has been a working car rather than a show car, but the annual mileage has dropped since I retired in 2007; last year I only put on 600 miles. I have all the service records. Being in Rancho Santa Fe (near San Diego), it mostly is driven as a convertible. I was named after my father, so for 52 years, it has been driven by someone named Rodney O. Lilyquist.
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Welcome neighbor 😀 Another Pagoda in the Ranch is always welcome👍
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You have a great history with the car. What a great wedding gift! Photos (old and new) are always appreciated.
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Welcome to the group Rodney. We need to here and see more about this special Pagoda.
Jonny B, I think there is a story here for Pagoda World!
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The car looks the same as it has for 52 years: Navy blue soft top (723), dark blue seats (115) with graphite grey carpet (6117), tinted glass wrap-around (598), and 2-piece hubcaps (641). My wife put a photo of it on Facebook (Rodney Lilyquist) that I'm told anyone can view. Not being computer literate, I would need easy to understand instructions on how to post a photo of it. My father and I bought several Mercedes in the 1960's and 1970's, but this is the only one left. Probably the best driving trip my wife and I ever took was driving up and down the coast of California in 1985. I have a hoist in the garage that lifts off and stores the hardtop with the push of a button. That's a big plus for me. I'm on the wait list for the PagodaFest in October; I live only 10 miles from the venue and am very much hoping to attend.
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Hello everyone,
I like to introduce myself, my name is Rolf-Dieter S, retired Mechanical Engineer. I was born in Magdeburg, Germany some 75 years ago (still feel like 55) and immigrated to Canada in 1957, married now for 52 years one daughter. I purchased a partly reconditioned 1969 Mercedes 280 SL last week from a local collector of mainly 1950s to 1960s cars. The 280 SL was his wife's car. The car rolled off the assembly line in late 1968 and was shipped to Florida USA for the first owner. The second owner also lived in Florida, USA. The car left Florida mid 1992 for Canada with 65,102 Miles on the odometer where the third owner had it restored here in Ontario. When the car had 67,027 miles on the odometer the odometer had to be replaced. The new odometer now has 4,400 miles on it, therefore the total milage on this car when I purchased her was 71,427 total miles. From what I understand in the past 20 years the previous owners wife has only driven this car 4,400 miles. She eventually gave it back to him since she mostly started this car without driving it. As we all know this car loves to be driven and starting it only is not a good idea.
I own two late model cars (a 2011 Mercedes C350 4MATIC and a 2011 BMW M3) and purchased this 1969 Mercedes 280 SL since it will not only be great fun to have and drive to car shows, also I will enjoy working on the engine as I am now retired. When I was a young fellow I drove this type of car in Montreal and at that time the price was around $9,000- Canadian if my memory serves me right. I mainly drove American cars up to the age of 50, after that mainly Mercedes and BMW's. My love for German cars comes from watching my dad carefully taking his engine apart and labeling every part for reassembly :) Back when I was 17 I worked part time as a student in a small company, the owner had a Mercedes and I was allowed to drive this car out and back into the garage after washing her ... what can I say, I'm a car nut :)
Anyway ... I've done a lot of research before purchasing this car and I am glad I found one in such great condition. I look forward visiting this forum and once I figure out how things work here to become a Full Member.
Photos of my new addition can be found here ----> http://rolf-dieter.smugmug.com/Cars/280SL-Photo-Shoot/
EDIT. 1… My former Mercedes C350 was my company car I sold her to a lady in Ottawa, Canada since our plan was to go to only one Daily Driver. Once the C350 Benz was gone my wife became unhappy with our joint decision to give up the Benz, so we traded the BMW M3 in for a nice 2013 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC last month now both the wife and I are happy after all I do have the 280 SL to play with :) Also note once I became a member here I changed my handle from Alter Peter to my real first name Rolf-Dieter. During this edit I also corrected the milage I earlier stated in this post.
EDIT. 2 ... June, 2016 Update Last year I changed my DD to the C63 AMG [btw I drive my AMG for safety not for speed, it's nice to have those 481 HP under the hood when needed, also love the sound] for I missed my M3. I like to think of my 2 cars as ...
EDIT 3 .... June 2019; last year in May I found a low mileage 2011 SL 63 AMG after a 6 year wait. I saw this car first in Berlin during an interdiction of this model and fell in love with it. At that time I purchased the model and took it back home for my MB salesman. I told him “Bill if you ever get a low mileage trade in, call me I like to purchase it” well it took 6 years when I got the call “Dieter your car is here, come and see it” 2 other customers wanted to purchase the car, however, since I made the request so long ago I got first choice to purchase the car and so I did. The car was driven by our airport manager and had only 37K KM on the odometer, Hartley driven in yet. Last fall I had both in the parking lot were I did some cleaning. See photo. I am quite content now with my SL 63 AMG from 2011 and my 280 SL Pagoda from 1969.
Something New and Something Old
... and not nessesarely in that order. I'm found of both cars and I drive my Pagoda at least once a week during the summer months ... Also going to car shows. Soon I will have driven my Pagoda 10,000 Miles since I found her in May 2013.
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Hi everybody and thank you for the admission 8)
Im a french man living in the balearic islands, Spain.
I drive every day a 1990 W126 300se and almost every sunday a 1975 W107 450sl.. but I never got in or drove a Pagoda!
The Pagode, as we say in France, is my dream car since I've opened my eyes in 1968..
As a mid-century self birthday gift, I plan to purchase a 280sl from 1970. The seller would accept "Sue Ellen" my red 107 as a part of the deal... it's still a complete dilemma for me, but that is not the point.
I'm talking about an original 1970 european with 2 owners (and two tones), still with its original plates, very nice but i can't say much, its not mine yet...
So yes, every tip is warmly welcome! (Im not familiar with any forum, only to reach here cost me half hour..) Some nice people from facebook sent me to this forum, as I was searching a buyer's guide
Best regards
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Welcome to the forum nicocastibz. I wish you success with your purchase.
I suggest you read a few posts from each main category on the Home Page to get a feel for the subjects being discussed and the assistance being offered by fellow members.
Also browse the Technical Manual, especially the section on buying a car, to get a feel for the valuable information there. There are some restricted areas reserved for full members. After you are familiar you may want to consider full membership.
Again welcome to the group and good luck with your purchase.
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Hello Group,
Sorry to interrupt this enjoyable discussion thread with "business", but I have two friendly request of forum users. In the menu in the top right corner of this screen, you can click on "profile" and enter information about yourself. This is all voluntary, nothing is required.
1. I would like to see more people simply include their nation of residence in their profile. Currently, 77 of 325 (23.7%) members of the forum do not designate this. It would be good to include this for several reasons, two of which are:
- It helps people answer your questions with regards to local laws, local parts or service suppliers, shipping questions, local events, and other issues.
- It helps those who operate the W113 Pagoda SL Group to get a better feel for the demographics. We can better provide local services (social get togethers, car meets, driving events, parts swaps, tech sessions, etc.) if we know where the members are.
2. Use a signature. Often times people will ask a question and not include basic information, as in do you have a 230, 250, or 280 SL? Is it a manual transmission? Don't hesitate to describe your vehicle in your signature, it will be posted every time and you won't have to remember to include any of the basic info.
I hope everyone is enjoying the web site, we're glad you chose to belong to the W113 Pagoda SL Group.
Thanks,
Rodd
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both tops
1994 E420
Yes, profile filled out, avatar, and signature!
BTW, some of you have already seen my recent posts, but here it goes:
Wife and I reside in the Seattle, WA suburb known as "Des Moines). About 15 minutes outside of Seattle.
Big carnut. Grew up around muscle cars. Had numerous Dodge CHallengers and Plymouth Cudas.
Then became enamored with European cars. My 1st was a 76 Jaguar XJC coupe with a Chevy V8 lump.
Then my 1978 Austin Mini (see picture in Gallery).
Then my 1971 BMW 2800CS (ditto).
Then, I picked up a 1955 Chevy Nomad (ditto)
Then now, picked up this beautiful W113 (ditto)!
A lot to learn, but I enjoy learning about different cars and how they run and how to maintain. Quite a bit different than my BMW.
I also have a 1990 300CE coupe that I bought for $400! She runs and looks pretty good and I actually drive it to work 2-3x/week!
Wife's daily driver is a 2006 Chrysler 300c SRT8.
My daily driver is a 2012 G37 convertible
And my truck is a Dodge Ram 2500 to help trailer my 28' Crownline.
And have a CM400A Honda for the wife, and a 2005 Victory Hammer.
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Interesting fleet, teahead. Welcome to the forum. It appears you have yourself a beautiful 113. Enjoy!!
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thank you very much :)
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Interesting story, my 230 SL was a revenge purchase back in 1975. My first wife left me for another guy when I was only 23 years old. Her favorite things were snow skiing and 230 SLs. So of course I bought a 230 SL from a guy in La Jolla for $6000 put my skis on the roof and drove over to her new apartment to get some made up thing. Felt good. I drove and loved that car but started noticing things like a bad paint job, low compression on a couple of cylinders, and a front end shimmy when I got over 100 mph. So in 1982 I tore the car apart, rebuilt the engine and tranny, tore the front end apart, removed all of the chrome and most of the leather, bought new chrome and had the rest replated. Then life happened, new girlfriends, new wife, new house, and of course children. Interests changed, bought land, bought horses, and showed horses all over the U.S. The pagoda suffered moving from house to house disassembled and I always wanted to finish it but never had the time. I am happy to say I have restarted the restoration and to my surprise the car is in decent shape and it appears I have very few parts missing after moving so much. Fortunately over the years I have kept the piston cylinders and fuel injection oiled and the motor turns nice for not being started in 37 years, I still have a half a tank of leaded premium which I will dump. One problem I found yesterday some rodents ate some of the wiring under the dash so I will start there cuz I want to hear it run again. I will post updates. So about me - I love my wife, my daughters, old Mercedes, new Acuras, and any year Chevy truck.
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Welcome aboard Crestfyre. We look forward to updates on your Euro 230. Lots of resources available here should you need assistance.
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Crestfyre, not only a lot of resources on the web site, there are a lot of resources in the SD area. We all want to see another Pagoda on the road!
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Thank you so much Ralph and Jonny B! I look forward to sharing this 37 year old project with the group and I am sure I will be using every resource available. No way I remember how everything goes back together. Thanks again
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Welcome, Crestfyre!
Good luck with the project.
You had me up until "...Chevy truck" :)
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Thanks pj - Nothing better than a Chevy truck for hauling horses around.
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Welcome Crestfyre. You have me beat. Mine has only been apart 13 years.
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Welcome Crestfyre. You have me beat. Mine has only been apart 13 years.
Welcome Crestfyre! ...and we are not having a competition about that, are we...???
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No competition - Besides regrettably I think I would when this one. Thanks for the welcome Shvegel and Mike.
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Welcome to our truly International Pagoda SL Group Crestfyer. You certainly have found the right site for your project. Very interesting story , something to share with other Pagoda owners once you have her all together again :) Quite a few of our members have done a complete Restauration. You are so close to our October 4 and 5, 2019 get together just north of San Diego. Perhaps you like to see some of the Pagoda’s of our Group taking part of the Poker Run we are having on Saturday October 5. One car participating comes all the way from Melbourne Australia. For Details of the Agenda of our PagodaFest go to our Event forum section or check out the site ...
Here ——-> https://www.pagodafest.com/
And
Here ——-> https://www.pagodafest.com/pagoda-run
It will certainly give you a chance to see and hear the great sound of our engines and give you the willpower to put your now valuable Pagoda back together again :)
Once again Welcome to our Group!
Dieter
PS. I recommend you start a new thread once you start your Restauration detailing your work and asking questions as you need help. You will find quite a few knowlagable Members that will help. Use our “Search” Funktion and you will find some of the members having gone thru a full Restauration and that have documented there steps with photographs, descriptions and questions. Good Luck.
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Thank you so much Dieter for the welcome and all the info. Yes I noticed a couple of months ago that Pagodafest was right up the road from me and I tried to get a pass but to no avail, they were sold out. I was disappointed but now it appears to have been a blessing. My youngest daughter will be in an equestrian competition in Texas the same days so I couldn't have made it anyway. But I did so want to see all of these beautiful cars, and so close to home. My loss. Also thanks for the advice about posting during the restoration and I will do so. I have already watched several slide shows on the restorations and have learned quite a few pointers. Thank you again for the very nice welcome to the group and looking forward to sharing this project.
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New member here. Just picked up my new to me Pagoda last week. Its a 66' 230SL and I will be its 3rd owner. I have to say this site has been a wonderful resource as I've searched for the right car. Looking forward to many fun miles ahead!
This seems like a wonderful group of people here.
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Welcome to the Group.
Enjoy your 230SL and thanks for becoming a Full Member and recognising the full access benefits that come with your Full Membership. A welcome package will, if not already, be sent to you in due course
We always enjoy seeing new photos so feel free to post some.
Enjoy the ride.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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New member here. Just picked up my new to me Pagoda last week. Its a 66' 230SL and I will be its 3rd owner. I have to say this site has been a wonderful resource as I've searched for the right car. Looking forward to many fun miles ahead!
This seems like a wonderful group of people here.
Welcome!
We're all voyeurs here, so don't be shy. Snap a quickie for us to see the beauty!
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Welcome to the group Legacy121! Hope you get some fun driving experience in before the New England weather closes in on you for the winter. Don’t be bashful about sharing some pictures of your new prize.
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As requested, here are some pictures of my new ride. Thank you again for the warm welcome!
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Hi Everyone,
My name is Garrett. This forum seems great! I just purchased a 1964 Euro 230SL manual. The car is currently red on cognac but I plan on painting it pack to it's original color code in white. The car is a great driver at this point.. I was hoping to get some guidance from everyone as to where I can get this thing restored.. Any advice is beyond appreciated as this is my first classic!
Garrett
1964 230 SL
2017 S63 Coupe
2019 Yukon Denali
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Hi Everyone,
My name is Garrett. This forum seems great! I just purchased a 1964 Euro 230SL manual. The car is currently red on cognac but I plan on painting it pack to it's original color code in white. The car is a great driver at this point.. I was hoping to get some guidance from everyone as to where I can get this thing restored.. Any advice is beyond appreciated as this is my first classic!
Garrett
1964 230 SL
2017 S63 Coupe
2019 Yukon Denali
Welcome! Post a pic of your new project!
Start a new thread regarding restoration guidance. You'll get a ton of advice I'm sure.
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Welcome Garret to our International Group.
You are one of the lucky ones as you have a Pagoda guru right near by in Joe Alexander who lives in Blacklick and known on here as JA17. He is maybe one of four top Pagoda specialists in the USA and many ship their cars to him from far away.
Meanwhile, you might consider joining as a Full Member to give you both full access to the Technical Manual here and also received the by annualmPagoda World Magazine and some Group window stickers. For the sake of $30 US per annum you will make that saving in the first error you may make without the access and knowledge of the Tech Manual.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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As requested, here are some pictures of my new ride. Thank you again for the warm welcome!
Nice pictures, thanks for posting. Love the dark colors. What is the color code of your car?
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Hi,
My name is Peter Dall & I live in Melbourne Australia. I have coveted the mid to late 60's 230-280 SL series but alas my budget does not go to $100,000 AUD. However I have just found a 1981 SL280 (locally) in my price range so am seriously considering buying it. Any comments more than welcome.
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After lurking and posting here for a while, I finally upgraded to Full Membership today. Looking forward to many more years of excellent exchange about the W113, although it will have to share a place in my heart with 16 motorcycles of different makes, my 1970 Porsche 914-6GT and my 1990 Corvette ZR1. 8)
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Mike, glad to hear that you made the decision to become a full member. Welcome! Have you found the extra resources available, like the technical manual helpful? Hugh
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Having eyed the Pagoda for decades as a must have on the bucket list of German sports cars, the right project just came along.
I am new to this group, new to the marque and an excited new owner to a 1965 230SL. This car was on BaT back in November as a project.
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1965-mercedes-benz-230sl-18/
The plan is to immediately ship it to Calif. and undertake the final steps in completing the car.
My prior restoration specialty is finishing restorations-in-work. I've spent most of the last 30 years focusing on vintage BMW restorations. But have since branched out to an XKE restoration (2016) and most recently an early Porsche 928 restoration (2019). https://rennlist.com/forums/928-forum/1123822-01117-restoration-phase-ii-engine-and-front-suspension-23.html
I've wanted an SL for decades and this BaT project fits the bill perfectly.
I look forward to joining the conversation, lurking and contributing.
Paul Cain
Newport Beach Calif.
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Hi Paul, welcome to our group! I just mailed you a new member package.
I saw that car on BAT and was seriously thinking of bidding on it too. I thought it was very interesting and seemed odd the owner didn't get the last few things done to finish the restoration and increase the car's value. I hope no surprises and all turns out great for you! Keep us posted on what you find when work on it. Also once you get it on the road! Enjoy your Pagoda tours in 2020!
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Welcome Paul!
You are moving over from the dark side...??
Do I have the person correct in that you have been involved with the Legends of the Autobahn show in Monterey for BMW? I have been judging there for years, and have been chief judge for MB the past two.
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Welcome Paul and congratulations on the car.
Nice to have another member close by.
Dirk
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Winter in Norway, no way. Rode my 230SL today 😄 dusty car woke up from winter sleep, happy to run!
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Very nice, and it indeed looks like a fine day for a bit of Pagoda exercise. Welcome to the group.
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Jambo from Kenya, was in here a couple of years ago (2006), disappeared a little but now back home. i Own a 1966, 230SL.
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Jambo Tom
Nice to see you back!
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# 42 on the Pagoda Poster!
Welcome back :)
Norm
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Hello again everyone, I had to re register as username and password and email etc.. all inaccessible.
Hope you are are all well !
Regards,
Ben in Ireland
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Another old friend! Welcome back Ben.
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Hello everybody,
I'm Fab living in Paris, France.
I purchased a 1970 w113 280SL US, light ivory (670H), dark red hard top (542G).
the pagoge is the dream of my wife.
I have also a 1982 w123 280CE, 1987 w126 560SEC and 1992 w129 500SL 6.0L AMG.
Maybe you know it already because it has a sticker SL113.org ? At the time, it was in US configuration.
Fab.
(https://i.servimg.com/u/f56/11/23/72/75/20200312.jpg)
(https://i.servimg.com/u/f56/11/23/72/75/20200311.jpg)
(https://i.servimg.com/u/f56/11/23/72/75/20200310.jpg)
(https://i.servimg.com/u/f56/11/23/72/75/65012510.jpg)
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Fab, welcome! Beinvenu!
You may want to check the car registry (on the site) to see if the VIN is listed.
Dynamite color combination.
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Thank you Jonny :D
Where may i to ckeck the car registry ?
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Here’s the link:
https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Registry/Start
Consider becoming a full member, well worth it.
Bienvenue indeed!
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Go to the tech manual, and on the front page, just scroll down a bit and you will see a heading for "Car Registry" Just click there and you should be able to get to the list.
I don't think you need to be a full member to access. But not sure about that. From another post, may need to.
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Hello from Rhode Island! I came over from the dark side (BMW E9) but finally after many years of looking/wanting I bought my first Pagoda from a fellow West Coast s113.org member. A euro (tourist delivery) ‘69 280SL auto with a pretty rare (from what I have read on the forum) 3.69 rear axle ratio. Car was originally blue but was painted white at some point, interior was redone by the previous owner.
Car was delivered yesterday just in time for some wonderful, top-down, summer driving in New England
Happy Motoring!
Pieter
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Welcome to the group, Pieter. Thanks for posting the pictures. Rhode Island is a great place for summer drives. I have found memories of summers there in the days of the Quonset Point Naval Air Station and Davisville Construction Battalion Center. I saw my first Pagoda there in 1964.
In those days the Jamestown bridge was only a dream and we accessed Newport by ferry. My 280SL is also a 1969 tourist delivery (February 12) but without the 3.69. This ratio should improve your cruising pleasure. Enjoy!
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Here you go Fab ... Welcome to our site!
-----> https://www.sl113.org/wiki/pmwiki.php?n=Registry.Start
Dieter
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Hello. I'm a first time member here with a long history in the International M100 Group as far as my ties to Mercedes Benz. While not an owner of a W113, in my second career in Automotive Restoration I am currently working on a 1970 280SL at Vintage Car Works in Englewood, CO. I have a lot of questions to research regarding proper finishes, particularly in the engine bay; re: cad, or zinc plating, natural VS polished finish, etc. If anyone can direct me to any threads at the same time that would be great.
I've also got a 250SE Cabriolet for which I began restoring last year, starting with the engine which currently sits as a new long block. I'll be able to get back to this project once I return home to Steamboat Springs, CO in August.
This site helped me a bit a long the way with the 250, so I look forward to learning more about both projects through my full membership. Neither car will be a show car, but rather they will be driver's with the correct look and finish for the most part.
I look forward to chatting with anyone who is interested.
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Hi Francis and welcome to the Group.
The search engine is your best friend. If you use the search button in the “home” line you will search the whole forum. If you use the search button at the top right it will only search the heading that you are currently in. Some even say it is easier to use Google to do the search.
I hope you enjoy the Group and everything it gives you, noting that we also have a sub set for W11x vehicles due to similarities.
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Yes, welcome Francis. I think you will find this a group dedicated to helping.
If you look up Pagoda Notes Volume 9 No 2, there is a detailed description of how to use the search functionality.
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Thanks much gentlemen!
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Hi there. My name is Ben. I’m 31, And have been fascinated by cars and classic designs in general for quite some time.
After years of hard work (to save enough), and research (not to lose too much money in case ever wanted to resale!) - I have been able to afford my first ever car, and one of my dream cars, and I’m here to share and learn from this community.
It is a true passion moment for me, and by no mean do I pretend to be a connaisseur whatsoever. I’m just an ambitious newbie, who’s dream was to own a real car, and is fortunate to start this journey with what I hope will become a nice 280sl...
I’m very open to feedback and suggestions throughout the process. And would be really grateful to benefit from your collective knowledge and experience.
To start, I’m sharing with you a few pictures of the beast. And look forward to engaging with you, and share more if you are interested
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Welcome Ben this forum is a must for every pagoda's lover....
A fabulous knowledge for your restoration...
Good luck but you have some already ,: owner at 31 ... :D
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Thank you Yves! Owner of a blue pagoda? Mine is blue too! Hard to find pictures of blue pagodas - would love to see rendering of 387h paint if you happen to have!
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Hi Ben,
Welcome to the group. Another blue Pagoda owner here.
To help you and give you access all the best information that this site offers, you may wish to consider joining as a Full Mamber and that way you will have access to the Technical Manual that will become your best friend as you put your Pagoda back together.
I’m biased of course being the Membership Admin 😁😁
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hi ben,
welcome and congrats on buying your first car. looks like a great project. many of us have been through similar technical issues and are happy to offer encouragement. this site is a fantastic resource. in time you will find the answers you need. in the mean time start by asking questions
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Thank you All. Can you please let me know where should I start a thread to show you the progress of the restoration process and get your views along the way?
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hi ben,
i would start your posts in the body, paint category. as your work moves to other subsystems you can switch to that category
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I’m returning with a new name after years away. My ‘69 Pagoda is about to complete a 4 year restoration project with Pieter at SilverStar, including an engine rebuild. I’m anxious to get her back and find my new routine with her.
I originally joined here 16 years ago and was active a few years, but after a whirlwind decade away, I’m back!
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Welcome back Chris (inNashville) - very glad you are back with us! I think I can speak for all - we can't wait to see the pictures. Hope all is well.
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Hello, all.
New member. Inherited my Dad's '67 250SL. Kept garaged. Last ran in 1993. I last drove it in 1986, when I got my first speeding ticket in Durham, NC. Got it running again. Now I get to PLAY! I can't wait to get this beauty back in tip top shape. Looking forward to the advice from you folks. I am not a mechanic, but I like to be very Hands-on. So... Already have the new gas tank and pump and radiator. (Does the fuel pump always make that much noise?) Need to trouble shoot the turn signals. Tires come tomorrow. If the attachments work, pics are below. I've already got some good insights from the forums, and will appreciate all the sage advice and cool tips I can get!
Cheers!
Bill Terry
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Let me say welcome! Glad to have you on board. You have found the right place for help with your car. When you can post some more pictures - we just love pictures.
Did you father purchase the car form new?
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Hello everyone,
New member here, after inheriting my dad's 1970 280SL. He was the second owner, after purchasing it in 1971. It was his daily driver for many years - but for the past 5 years or so it's been mostly sitting. He started it weekly, or took it for short trips, but in his old age he didn't have much energy to put into it. He passed last summer, and I'm very glad I found this club!
He kept it up himself (mostly) over the years. I believe he rebuilt the engine once himself, and then a 2nd time ~10 years ago by professionals. I know he restored the seats, wood pieces along the dash, and door paneling, at around the same time. He's also made some modifications over the years - like adding a digital clock.
The only thing the desperately needs restoration is the air vent switches, they have almost completely deteriorated and the heater is stuck on to full blast. Not great for the summers here in California. :). That will probably be the first thing I try to restore. Second thing will be the soft top, which is also completely deteriorated. Luckily the hard top is in excellent condition.
Looking forward to learning a lot from you all, and keeping this classic in great shape!
BTW - the car is located in Santa Cruz, CA (picture taken in Carmel)
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Welcome Elliott - the stuck-on-full heater is likely the result of the hot water valve under the hood, close to the windshield under a black rubber plug, being frozen in the 'open' positions, and/or the dashboard sliders being stuck from lack of use. There is information about both issues in the technical manual and the forum. Just like on all other things Pagoda.
Fitting a new soft top should be do-able by oneself - not that I ever tried, but I watched my dad put one on my '69 Triumph Spitfire back in 1980, and as I recall it only took him a few hours and he managed it perfectly, and he had 0 experience doing this type of work. The tops look pretty similar.
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Hello all,
I'm from Barcelona, Spain. My father got a 1965 230SL on 1977. It's been in my family since then, and at this time I'm the owner. I've enjoyed it since I was a kid as my son does it now.
Nice to participate
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I think he, technically, was the second owner. I have the original maintenance book and it was serviced in Germany. Dad was living in Oakland at the time (Navy). But dad had it within the first 10k miles. I’ll get more pics up as I start to clean it up. Thanks for the welcome!
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Hello my name is Henk and I just gave our 1971 280SL to my daughter Anneka, I have owned the car for some 25 y and driven it maybe 1000 m Yes I know that's terrible.
We have too many cars and for the last 13 y also a Ocean going sailboat i.e. too many things
I have raced extensively , mostly Porsche Cup cars and have done a lot of Mille events in various antique cars
We live on a farm outside Washington DC in N Virginia where we raise Bison and where I have converted a dairy barn in-to a car barn.
At the moment the 280 is having some new parts fitted and a general going over done .
Hope she will take it to One of your events soon
8)
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Henk,
Welcome to group for both you and your daughter. There are quite a good number of Pagoda folks in the DC - Virginia area so I am sure you will be able to find some new friends. Unfortunately mostly on-line for right now. But stay tuned here for updates on events around you.
When you have some time, please post some photos. The folks here just love to see the pictures.
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Hello all I'm Charlie. From northern MN. My 90 y/o grandfather's green 1968 280SL with the hardtop has been in my parent's garage for about 5 years, and I don't think has been started until last night! Excited to tune it up and start driving.
Found this website yesterday to try to find tips for restoring.
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Charlie,
Welcome to the group. After sitting for five years, there are a number of safety items to check, brakes among them. Get familiar with the site and the search engine , there is a lot of information about waking up a sleeping Pagoda.
If you can, post a few photos, this group just loves to see photos.
Is your grandfather the original owner?
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I should be able to take some photos tomorrow! I believe he bought it in the mid 70s so 2nd owner. Has just 32k miles on it.
He would drive my cousin and I around in the summers as kids, so I’m very excited to drive it for nostalgia sake.
Yeah I started it it seemed like it was leaking a little coolant from an old hose, but plan on digging in more. Glad to have this resource.
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Welcome Charlie and Dutch. You will find that this is the best group on the web for you and your pagoda. Charlie with just 32K original miles, your car should be a real time capsule. It would be nice to see some pictures of both.
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Posted a few photos in the photo thread
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Hello everyone. My name is Norm and I live in the San Francisco Bay Area. I'm a long time Pagoda SL Group reader, but just joined as a Full Member...seemed about time since I've received such great information from the site.
I do not own a W113 (I'm guessing unusual here?!). Part of the reason I started reading the forum long ago, and now joined, was is to help me make a good decision in a purchase - to do my homework first. So if you are willing to help me not screw up (er, screw up less) my purchase, I'm ready to listen!
Nice to meet everyone virtually, and hope to meet many of you in person at future GTGs (I was disappointed I wasn't able to make PagodaFest, but already am looking forward to the next)
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196? Mercedes 2X0 SL automatic ;D
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Hello everyone. Wade from San Antonio, and I purchased my white ‘69 280SL in March. I had some work done at the Mercedes dealer here (not recommended), and it is currently with Gus in Houston, who I would highly recommend. It is a largely original but repainted Pagoda in decent shape.
This forum has been a great help already and the Mercedes Classic center has also been good to work with.
Still surprised at the number of honks and thumbs up I get when driving this car!
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Welcome to the group.
The looks and thumbs up will never, ever, get old!
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Still surprised at the number of honks and thumbs up I get when driving this car!
That is why it's a treat to have a classic. Spend the same on a new Mercedes and you get either the "rich douche" look or the no reaction at all.....
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That is why it's a treat to have a classic. Spend the same on a new Mercedes and you get either the "rich douche" look or the no reaction at all.....
I think "no reaction at all" is probably the most common. The times when a Mercedes was considered a luxury car that only "rich douches" would own, is long gone.
Every Tom, Dick and Harry (sorry guys!) has some kind of cheaper model Mercedes that they lease for an 8,000 mile p.a. allowance.
As mentioned elsewhere, buying a new MB would not be near the top of my list of vehicles to consider.
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As promised in the WTB thread (https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=31138.0 (https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=31138.0)), our search is over and my wife is now the happy owner of a beautiful 280SL!
1969, fully restored about 7 years ago and only driven about 1000 miles since (but regularly, which is perfect setup). The color combo was a surprise to us. Brown leather is always beautiful, but if someone told me we would own a Moss Green car, I'd say they were nuts. But this is a very, very nice green color.
Has the stick shift which is a bonus to us, partially because my wife really likes manual cars (yeah - she's a keeper!)
The car had a full euro conversion done, but is a US spec car. Something I'd assume a Pebble beach judge would frown all over. I could care less, since we are looking to enjoy the car and drive it!
Mechanically the car is solid, only a oil change and an A/C recharge was needed.
Can not say enough positive things about this website and group to date - many very friendly and positive interactions already. Look forward to learning more and enjoying the car!
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Moss Green with what looks in the photos like cognac leather
Wonderful combo in my view. Congrats and many happy but not too fast miles
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Congratulations on your new vintage car, it looks stunning! BTW, I was at EAS last week and saw a 280SL in this same color combination; is this the one?
Lakis Akylas
1971 280SL Anthracite gray metallic DB172, gray MB Tex, ZF 5 speed
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Moss Green with what looks in the photos like cognac leather
Wonderful combo in my view. Congrats and many happy but not too fast miles
That is correct - very nice combo. And thank you!
This is not the fast car, that would be the E63.....,
This is the "nice cruise car for beautiful summer nights". But hopefully also road trips.
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Congratulations on your new vintage car, it looks stunning! BTW, I was at EAS last week and saw a 280SL in this same color combination; is this the one?
Lakis Akylas
1971 280SL Anthracite gray metallic DB172, gray MB Tex, ZF 5 speed
Lakis,
Thank you! Appreciated.
Yes, that would be our car. Ed at EAS was very helpful in the search, and this car was well known to him, which was a nice feeling for us.
Sounds like you have a true unicorn - 1971 280 SL and 5 speed. Outstanding.
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Yes it had to be the one, this is not a common color combination, but stunning nonetheless! I have known Ed Owen for over 25 years, since he worked at Hatch & Sons and of course Ken Hatch whom you may have met at EAS. They are very honest/professional. I would be happy to connect with you -- I have owned my Pagoda for over 30 years -- feel free to pm me if you wish.
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PM sent + look forward to connecting.
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Hej Carl,
Congratulations on the new car.
I think that is an outstanding color combination.
Lycka till,
Otto
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Hej Carl,
Congratulations on the new car.
I think that is an outstanding color combination.
Lycka till,
Otto
Tack så mycket!
Appreciate the kind reach out and conversations.
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I would also like to add my welcome to all the new members to this great forum and the Pagoda family. I fell in love with this car over 50 years ago and that love has not diminished. Congratulations to all of you on becoming owners of these beautiful cars.
John
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Sweet car.
Start a new thread and with MORE PICTURES!
If you got that car for less than $80k, you got a deal IMHO!
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Sweet car.
Start a new thread and with MORE PICTURES!
If you got that car for less than $80k, you got a deal IMHO!
I will do that, after the first real road trip.
There are deals to be had out there, in the right situation and with the right connections. I got lucky.
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Hello, I'm George, just recently have decided to take the plunge into the world of the lovely Pagoda (is plural Pagodae?).
I've been a long-time admirer of these cars, as a close friend had a fully restored 230SL back in the late 80's. I fondly recall roaring up the Pacific Coast Hwy to the 101 and ultimately to Santa Barbara, with the beautiful drone of the engine keeping a smile on my face. Even then, that car received many admiring looks and visible displays of appreciation.
Fast forward too many years later, and between suddenly confronting a future where driving 40 miles/day minimum in LA traffic won't likely be happening for the rest of my career, and getting tired of swapping cars every 34 months at the end of a lease into something all too similar, but ultimately not so exciting... I am ready to take the plunge into long-term automotive commitment.
I was so amazed when I stumbled upon this site, with its world of knowledge and devotion to these lovely cars.
Looking forward to tapping into your collective expertise, as I navigate this new terrain towards (hopefully) a great next auto for me, with the intention to keep long-term.
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George,
Welcome to the Pagoda! There are quite a number of Pagoda-ists in the Southern California environs. With all the events cancelled or on hold, we have not been able to get together. But rest assured, there will be meet-ups. These are usually posted on the forum.
Good luck with your car.
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Hello, I'm George, just recently have decided to take the plunge into the world of the lovely Pagoda (is plural Pagodae?).
I've been a long-time admirer of these cars, as a close friend had a fully restored 230SL back in the late 80's. I fondly recall roaring up the Pacific Coast Hwy to the 101 and ultimately to Santa Barbara, with the beautiful drone of the engine keeping a smile on my face. Even then, that car received many admiring looks and visible displays of appreciation.
Fast forward too many years later, and between suddenly confronting a future where driving 40 miles/day minimum in LA traffic won't likely be happening for the rest of my career, and getting tired of swapping cars every 34 months at the end of a lease into something all too similar, but ultimately not so exciting... I am ready to take the plunge into long-term automotive commitment.
I was so amazed when I stumbled upon this site, with its world of knowledge and devotion to these lovely cars.
Looking forward to tapping into your collective expertise, as I navigate this new terrain towards (hopefully) a great next auto for me, with the intention to keep long-term.
George,
Having just completed my search, feel free to reach out, I may be able to make some connections for you.
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Hi all,
My name is Al from Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. I've recently finished a 10 month resto on a 1968 280SL. Looking forward to perusing this site and its community of knowledgeable members :)
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Welcome to the site Al, you'll find great people here and lots of very useful information.
You car looks great from your tag. Love the colour combination. Please post some pictures, we all love pictures.
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Al, glad to have you on board. I will join in with Jordan, please post some other pictures - there is a separate forum for picture links. We indeed do love to see the photos.
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Welcome to the forum Al, striking picture! We would also like to hear about your restoration.
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Thanks guys, I'll try post some pics in the Photo Gallery when I get a chance.
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Hi Al, I love your color combination and you selection of wide whitewalls to go with it. I really look forward to seeing and hearing the details of your restoration.
Tom Kizer (from the other end of the country)
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Hello Members, my name is John and I joined a few weeks ago but I’m a long time owner. I’ve resided in MI the past 25 yrs and the prior 12 yrs in Germany. I’ve worked for two German companies the past 33 years. Thanks to all who have compiled information and have passed on their experiences and knowledge through the years to the club, all of which have helped keep these wonderful vehicles on the road. I am able to carry out a decent number of maintenance items myself and enjoy doing as much as possible. Right now I’m replacing the fuel tank along with some other overdue jobs. I look forward to posting a picture or two down the road and hopefully meeting up with some members at a future event. Lastly, I was wondering if the Pagoda Badge is still available for purchase.
Servus!
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Hi Servus,
Firstly welcome to the Pagoda Group. Now as a Full Member you will have access to all areas of the group and that includes the Technical Manual.
On the Badge, unfortunately, that was a one off run organised by one of our Members, now a Board Members, Michael S. and there are no longer any left over from that project.
Again Welcome
Garry
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Hello Pagoda SL Group,
I'm HJ the second family member to own our 113 280sl, the car has been in the family for as long as I can remember. My father purchased it in the early 70's as I was just a kid, this is the third of seven Mercedes in the family. I have owned some pretty amazing cars including a 93 E500. None of them have compared to the last 20 years with my 280sl, the response from everyone inside and outside tells me everything I need to know. I don't drive it nearly enough and it has very few miles. I am looking to get out more now that the world has come to a stop and find more local mechanics in Northern New Jersey, so any suggestions would be great. Keep up the great work and one day I will become a full member.
Cheers HJ
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HJ - welcome to the group! Very cool to see continued family ownership. You should see some posts about the mechanic options.
I would urge you to consider being a full member, you would be surprised at what you will be able to learn about the car, and what you will be able to do yourself.
Or if you don't fancy getting your greasy fingerprints on the car, the knowledge will help you when you seek out a mechanic to do a job or too.
Best wishes.
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Hello all members,
I’m a seventeen year old classic car aficionado, with a particular penchant for classic Mercedes-Benz models designed by the legendary Paul Bracq including the W111 pillar-less coupe and of course the W113. While I’m a long way from being the custodian of one of these beautiful cars, I’m in the process of helping my father look for either a 230SL or 250SL here in the UK and I’m looking forward to being able to accumulate more knowledge on the history of the W113 and the necessary characteristics to look out for when in the market such as the presence of original fender notches and many of the other unique details that went into these masterpieces of German engineering.
I’ve been largely obsessed by classic German cars, predominantly Mercedes-Benz from the post war period to the early ‘90s, and looking forward to being able to learn from the vast community here on all manner of things, which I hope to make use of in my own personal search for a Pagoda and for my own automotive site I have started so that I can share my passion for cars with others, torquedaily.com
I look forward to gaining further insight from the community, cheers
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A super welcome to you Bracqtobasics! You have landed on the right place for your search for knowledge and a car for your father, and ultimately for you. I think you will find a group ready to help as much as they can.
Acquaint yourself with the search function. There is a LOT of information here to assist your quest.
Good luck.
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I am a new member who is looking for a very nice 280SL, auto with air. I thought I had found one at Auto Europa in Naples, FL, but I now see the dealership is permanently closed. I will be there later this week and was planning to see it then. Is there any member in southern Florida who knows what may have happened to this dealership?
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I believe Auto Europa merged with Autohaus of Naples recently. Hope this helps.
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Bill moved on over to the new merged entity it seems, he's a youtube legend by now.
Enjoy (posted 2 weeks ago):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXqbSssHxQ4
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Hi, Barry here from Ireland. I have been searching around for a nice 280sl from the US and am still on the lookout. Is there a way for the website to alert you whenever someone has one for sale?
Hoping to learn more and get lucky with a good car. Looks like there is a lot more to learn
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Hi Barry,
Give Colin Ferns a call here on his web site you find more info, he might know of someone near you.
---> https://www.colinferns.com
Dieter
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Hello All,
After purchasing my 113 3 years ago, I’ve finally managed to get space in the garage to start my restoration.
I hope I can lean on you all to help me do justice to this car and restore it to its former glory.
At the moment I consider it good from far, but far from good.
I’m sure to be looking around here to find the info I need, I just hope I have the finances to make it happen😂.
For anyone in Melbourne Australia, feel free to reach out and perhaps we can compare notes over a beer or two once we’re allowed to.
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Duncan,
There are quite a few Pagoda owners in Melbourne and Members here including myself although i have avoided lockdown by staying in Kyneton the past few months.. We occasionally get together for Saturday morning coffee runs, Non Pagoda vehicles used if needed, but with covid-19 lockdown nothing has happened for some time.
Becoming a Full Member will give you access to the Tech Manual that will be the most useful tool to you as you do any restoration or just keeping your car on the road.
Look forward to catching up some time.
Garry
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Hi Garry,
Thanks mate, definitely considering becoming a full member.
Been out in the garage starting to rip the old girl apart and I’m discovering things that are perhaps going to cost me a lot of money. Pulled one headlight out and the bondo, lead and poor welding of the headlight bucket in is already scaring me. I hope I don’t find too many nasties as I continue to pull her apart. 🤞🏻
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I have just become the custodian of a 1969 280SL and recently joined your forum in order to educate myself and receive advise and wisdom regarding renovation and maintenance. While I have quite a bit of experience restoring 1964-1970 Ford muscle cars, they are quite simplistic by comparison and I am ready to step up my game and am grateful to have the opportunity to learn about this wonderful MB machine.
A family friend passed away 5 years ago and this car was a family vehicle, first being sold in Honolulu, HI and brought to Los Angeles in 1994. His widow and daughter are moving out of state and I have the car with the charge to work with her to determine a plan and desired level of renovation.
From the file that came with the car it received an extensive mechanical rebuilding in June 1990 at Theo Davis Euromotors that included a new short block (stamped with original engine number) and transmission. It also received a complete strip and repaint of all body panels, hood, trunk and hard top in November 1990 at Tapci Auto Paint Center.
By review of the service records of 1987 - 2017, I believe the miles on the odometer, 93,277, to be original.
While I have only driven about 5 miles in the car, it’s seems pretty sound. The Oct 2017 service record shows a change of all fluids (they look/smell clean) and an alternator and voltage regulator replacement.
I will place the car in the Registry soon.
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Additional Photos.
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Welcome to the group! Good luck on the restoration process.
One item for you quickly - suggest you blank out the entries in lines 16, 17 and 18 on the data card, those are the key codes for the car.
Also note that per the data card, the hard top would have been painted dark red, that is code 542 next to the 180 (silver) on the data card and the data plate you took a photo of.
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LA 280SL,
Welcome to the group !!
May I make a few observations?
Please note, your key code is shown on your data card. You might want to remove that picture and upload a new one with the key codes blocked out. (fields 16, 17, and 18).
Also, I see you have radio option code 518 Radio Becker Europa Stereo (and 531 Power antenna). If you car has the original radio, it would be very interesting for me to see a picture of it. I will say that is a very rare option (in my opinion).
Two tone cars are very interesting too.
Enjoy your new ride and the adventure !
Mark
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Thanks for the tip Iconic.
Upon looking at the radio it does not appear to be the original Becker. The original booklet and warranty cards are with the paperwork, but it looks to me to be a more modern unit, ala Blaupunkt, although it does not say so. I’ll get a picture out to you soon.
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Hi everyone, my name is Tyler Cobbett. I'm excited to be joining the group. I own a '71 280SL named Stella. I've owned her since 2008, and have been slowly restoring her (using service shops), starting from the inside. So far I've replaced or rebuilt: the engine (rebuilt to first oversize), transmission, suspension, fuel pump, exhaust, and many other smaller items. I recently had her painted. I had a bumpin' stereo installed that is operated by my iPhone. My next project is the steering box, and so I'm eager to learn about rebuilding those. I use her as daily driver, just not enough days! I live in Menlo Park, CA. Feel free to contact me if I can provide any input.
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Hello to all,
I posted much of this a few days ago in a new thread in the Drivetrain section but realized hadn't done a proper introduction here. I've spent the last couple of weeks looking through the various posts and topics (including Andy Burns' exhaustive restoration story). It's great to have found such an awesome resource related to these cars - I joined as a full member right away.
As quick background, my father bought a lightly restored 1965 230 SL in 1984 when we lived in Paris, France. He imported the car to the US in 1986 and has had it in the US ever since. The car has moved around the country with him over the years, but has spent the last 20 years in California. My dad isn't really a "car" guy, and unfortunately he really did the minimum amount of upkeep needed to keep the car running and usable. Late last year he decided he needed to simplify his life a bit, and it was time to get rid of the car. My siblings weren't really interested, and I didn't want to let it out of the family so I bought it from my dad (at a family price) and shipped it from CA to NY in March. In contrast to my father, I am a "car guy", although my experience working on cars is limited to the basics. I am very proficient at detailing and cosmetic maintenance.
I am planning a modest mechanical and cosmetic restoration of the car, not for any type of show purposes, but simply to have an attractive and usable driver car. The project list includes such things as finding and stopping the oil leaks that have been going on for years, refinishing the hard top, replacing the soft top, replacing the seat covers and foam cores, replacing the seat belts, and doing some restoration to or replacement of the leather on the dashboard. I will also do an "in-place" detailing of the engine and engine bay (as much as possible) and a painful cleaning of the underside of the engine which has a lot of accumulated crud and oil. I fortunately have a 4 post storage lift in the garage so I will have access to the underside. I had been planning to start this work during the spring & summer but Covid created a lot of distraction and I just never got around to focusing on it until recently.
Here's a picture of the car (and me) last December when it was still in California. Looks good from a bit of a distance. I have much work to do...
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Welcome on the forum and it's nice to see a "parisian" 75 pagode in USA ;)
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Thanks! We've kept the French plates on the front and back, and have attached a California plate below the French plate in the rear. Now that the car is in NY it would not shock me to get stopped without a NY front plate on it, but I will try to reason with the officer and failing that, just pay the ticket. Some things just can't be done...
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Hi, I am a new member after owing my 1969 280 SL since 1977. First saw one while in college in 1968 and fell in love with the car. My car is white with white hard top and black soft top and black interior. It is a four speed manual with AC.
I bought the car in Delaware but it has since been titled in Georgia, Texas, New Jersey, North Carolina and now Georgia again.
It has not been restored, simply maintained as best I can.
Looking forward to learning new tricks from the fellow SL lovers.
Mike
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Mike,
Welcome. Quite a history - owned since 1977! I am sure you will find many people here ready and willing to assist.
Please explore the site as there is a lot of helpful information about the car and repairs.
Also - when you get a chance post some photos, we all just love to see the pictures.
Happy Holidays!
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Hello, I'm John from Toledo, Oh, I just purchased a 1968 280SL. And am going to need help and assistance on various things with this car, lol. The car was purchased new by my girlfriends father in 68' from a local dealer and has remained in his ownership until now, he actually passed away in 2007 and stopped driving the car in 1986. This car has been sitting since then in the garage of there family home until i had to move it out due to the family finally selling the house. it has a few nicks in the paint and a couple of dings in the driver door due to being under the cover and grand kids knocking something around by it. The keys were lost or stolen at some point in the last 10 years since anybody has seen them so moving was fun but not that hard really.
I have drained the fuel or varnish rather, and will clean out all the fuel lines and remove all other fluids. Have put some Marvel down into the cylinders and started to clean her up a little bit. I have breathed new life into old Camaro , pickups , Cutlasses but they aren't built to the tolerances of this car ! Every single part on this car is original, it has 53,000 and some change on the odometer. I want to keep it that way but still drive it with the misses.
Where do I start ? It is winter now here and not in any hurry to put it on the road but would like to drive her in the spring.
First pic was her resting spot for years !! 2nd is her new home, as soon as all that other stuff is gone !! LOL
I'm no millionaire , just a lucky stiff, paid $12,500 for it hope I didn't over pay but she is pretty much rust free except a little on drivers floor panel. Oh, and the heater control levers all turned to paper mache .
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Hello, I'm John from Toledo, Oh, I just purchased a 1968 280SL. And am going to need help and assistance on various things with this car, lol. The car was purchased new by my girlfriends father in 68' from a local dealer and has remained in his ownership until now, he actually passed away in 2007 and stopped driving the car in 1986. This car has been sitting since then in the garage of there family home until i had to move it out due to the family finally selling the house. it has a few nicks in the paint and a couple of dings in the driver door due to being under the cover and grand kids knocking something around by it. The keys were lost or stolen at some point in the last 10 years since anybody has seen them so moving was fun but not that hard really.
I have drained the fuel or varnish rather, and will clean out all the fuel lines and remove all other fluids. Have put some Marvel down into the cylinders and started to clean her up a little bit. I have breathed new life into old Camaro , pickups , Cutlasses but they aren't built to the tolerances of this car ! Every single part on this car is original, it has 53,000 and some change on the odometer. I want to keep it that way but still drive it with the misses.
Where do I start ? It is winter now here and not in any hurry to put it on the road but would like to drive her in the spring.
First pic was her resting spot for years !! 2nd is her new home, as soon as all that other stuff is gone !! LOL
I'm no millionaire , just a lucky stiff, paid $12,500 for it hope I didn't over pay but she is pretty much rust free except a little on drivers floor panel. Oh, and the heater control levers all turned to paper mache .
Hi John, my name is John too and I am in Columbus. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions. I think you will find everyone here to be very helpful. Familiarize yourself with the Technical Manual on this website, there is a lot of information on waking up a dormant car.
You got an amazing price, I'm sure others here will be jealous of. Every single Pagoda needs heater controls, if they haven't been done. I Just finished doing a set Saturday.
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Hello John, Welcome to this Forum. You will find lots of help here. The car looks to be in good shape and yep, those doors, unfortunately, are soft as butter. my car sat for a number of years and was lucky to find a good mechanic to get back into good running order. My levers had dissolved also and replacements are available (for $$$). If you still have some of the documents that came with the car, they might be of help getting new keys. Please post some more photos after you get it dusted off, and "$12,000" was a VERY good price!!
(yet another) John
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Hello John, welcome to the group. The mileage you indicate is similar to that of my 1969 and if the car is one owner and all original and hasn't suffered from salty roads, you likely have yourself a very fine example.
Do you have documentation on the car from the original owner? One important document is the data card. If you are not familiar with this you can find details in our technical manual. Click on the "Technical Manual" just to the right of the "Home" button above and familiarize yourself. The data card will have the key numbers that you can use to reorder keys for the car as well as other important information about the car. The Technical Manual includes a wealth of other valuable information that will be a big help to you in bringing the car back to life.
If the car is as original as you indicate there will be details that are of great interest to all of us here. When you have removed some of the grime perhaps you can provide some detailed pictures of the car.
Again welcome to the group. We look forward to learning more about your car.
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Thank you guys, I'm very excited about this project and literally have had the car at my house for like 6 days. The data card is probably with the keys... I did last night check all the numbers or placements at least , all are there and spot welds galore under the hood. When I moved it I screwed up one of the lines going to the fuel pump (main line) and it has been drip draining for 6 days now. pretty sure she is empty at this point but didn't want to wrench or cut anything til its empty and no more smell, its very very close. I did clean the windshield and chrome strips around it , mirror and windshield wipers. Its been forever since i had a car that actually needed to polish the windshield wipers !! lol They look great !!
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John, let me add my welcome to the group.
Please take lots of pictures of the "as found" car. As Ralph stated, the original details are the things we all continue to learn about.
There is a lot of information on this site - learn to use the search function for the forum.
The technical manual is also a great reference.
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where should i post those pics, or start a new thread of it ?
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If you would like to post pictures, put them in the photo gallery area. Tap on the orange ‘home’. button at the top of page and you will see the different forum sections available to post to.
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Hello,
My name is Ray. I recently joined this forum. I do not own a Pagoda much less driven one. But I always wanted one. I have been doing research about them and hopefully become a lucky owner someday.
Thank you,
Ray
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John, I would also like to welcome you to our group!
Your car looks good from what I can see. $12,500 is a very good price paid considering a hood is worth $6,000 and a decent hard top $4,000... One thing that is important to make sure you don't drive on really old tires, even if they have tread left, but are really old, they are unsafe. I found Coker Tire had what I needed, as most tire places don't the size we need. Have fun getting you car ready for the Spring! Hugh
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Oh, that's a lovely sleeping beauty that just needs to be carefully woken up!
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Hi
I'm Daniel, originally from NY now in south FL
I owned a 250 SL back in the late 70's, Burgundy/Black USA automatic....I sold to when I bought a 911...
Now I am looking to buy another Pagoda.
Looking at the prices that they are selling for on Bring A Trailer has discouraged me a bit, I find it unbelievable that people are paying these prices for what is basically "Pig In A Poke" (buying "unseen" from a description and pictures)
Hopefully I will be able to find a "reasonable" car at a "reasonable" price....
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Hello everyone,
I am JM Girardot, originally from France but now in Georgia and joined the Pagoda organization one year ago. Previously, my hobby was photography but the passion wasn't there anymore and my wife reminded me of our days in early 70s when I would change pistons/rings and such in our Renault 4L before going on trips to Romania and Turkey through the Grossglockner, Austria and other places. So, I started to look at something simple such as Citroen 2CV, Citroen DS 19 even Citroen SM, but the prices were too high and was afraid of not finding parts, I looked at Mustangs but found that they were too many and then I saw the W113 280 SL Pagoda. I drove one, a good ride but the rust was an issue after inspection by me and a car appraiser and the color wasn't right. Then, I saw one in FL, dark green with tan interior, beautiful. Lust at first sight. I got the car examined by an inspector and got a clean bill of health, no rust, relatively new engine (not original but correct!), drives well and according to him I could drive the car from FL to Atlanta without any problem. I just needed to replace the rear axle mount. I flew to FL to get the car and 10 minutes later, on the highway the coolant temperature was going up and up, passed the red and I had to stop. I spent the night in FL and had the car shipped home. Since then, and with all great people comments and conseils HERE in this site, I have replaced all shocks, tie rod assembly L&R, drag link and steering dumper, radiator fan and thermostat, the clock went for conversion to Quartz, the sway bar bushings were replaced. The brake fluid was leaking inside the engine compartment, destroying the paint. The floats in the brake fluid reservoir were at the bottom but no warning lights were on and I still need to solve this issue. Then, one day the car started to shake strongly and found a very bad flex disc, worn u-joints and central bearing. I just got the repaired drive shaft from Drive Line in Roswell and will be refitting it next week. I probably left few things but this is the car in a nutshell. The engine does a lot of clickety-click on acceleration, the steering pump and the transmission are leaking and most of the greasing nipples were kind of blocked or simply missing. I love the car even if a new paint job will be required soon, the soft top to be replaced and readjusted so it doesn't teat when closing and on and on. I found one breathing tube in side the engine compartment that is just floating around as well as red wire without anything to be connected to. I am 76 year-old and thus have plenty of time to enjoy this new hobby. Sorry for this long paragraph! Also, did I say that I paid too much for the car! 😂
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Welcome JM,
and since your hobby was photography, upload some pics here... we always love that!
Peter
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JM
Welcome to the group. I will second Peter's comment. We love to see the photos.
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For some reason I can upload pics but when I post the screen become white and there is nothing. Only the avatar works!
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Sizes too big!
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Hi everybody,
My name is Charlie. I currently own a '68 280 SL. I'm new to anything car related (I'm a cameraman by trade) and am currently deciding what I'm going to do with my SL. If you have any experience restoring or selling this model, please feel free to reach out with any tips or ideas. Thanks again!
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JM, Your car looks really nice !!
cgbenz773, Welcome to the group from another Chicago area member. You came to the right place. Just search for answers to your questions or just ask if it is a tricky one.
Enjoy the ride !
Mark
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Thank you for your welcome to the site and the car looks nice but more work to be done, this is what it was intended for. :)
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Hi everybody,
I joined a few days ago. I do not currently own but hope to one day purchase a driver. I currently have a DeTomaso Pantera which I picked up in 2013 and put it on jack stands for 5 years of updates. I joined their mail list before my purchase and got a lot of tips and help. I drive it now and find satisfaction in the work that was done.
I have been looking for a pagoda owners group like this for a while and look forward to expanding my knowledge from the collective.
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Welcome Vincenzo to the Group.
Make sure you have a good read of the Tech manual and in particular the area on what to look for when purchasing a Pagoda.
https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Buying/Start (https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Buying/Start)
Happy hunting..
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Vicenzo, Welcome to our group! As Garry said the resources we have for members will help to educate you on what to look for & watch out for in buying a Pagoda.
I have always been fascinated by the Pantera. Great looking cars. In Canada we have coffee shops all over called Tim Hortons. He was a well known hockey player who died driving his Pantera back to Buffalo after a game in Toronto. From what I remember it wasn't a failure caused by the car, but maybe a driver error after a few too many drinks. A sad ending for a Canadian hockey/business icon.
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Hello everybody!
My name is Risto and i am from Finland. I am always interested pagoda Mercedes and six months ago i deside have one. It is white 1967 250 sl automatic. We are same age😄. You have great information these sites. I like to repair it myself so i will visit here often.👍
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Hi Ristorante,
Welcome to the group. There are lots of people here with very good advice from original owners through to those that have done nut and bolt restorations and all in between. Ask lots of questions and photos are always welcome.
Garry
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Welcome Risto! I am also a 250 SL owner (and a 280 SL) but I am a bit older than the car - :D
Did you find the car in Finland or did you need to search a bit further?
Lots of people here ready to help with questions. I also recommend becoming familiar with the search function.
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Thank you for you welcome.😊
I found it in Finland. It is ex us car and brought here about 15 years a go.
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My name is Peter Battles from Mystic, CT, USA. I own a 1966 230SL (red w/grey hardtop and interior) that I purchased in 1968 as a used car from the local MB dealer. Used it as my daily driver for a few years before going off to graduate school, when my Mom got hold of it and wouldn't let go. She drove the car for decades as her regular Spring thru Fall transportation. Eventually, through her failing health and then passing, I got the car back and used it occasionally but was more into a '67 Sting Ray I had at the time. Now the Corvette is gone, and after a 10-year span of neglect, I'm getting the 230 back into shape. I've had it gone through mechanically and am about ready to tackle the cosmetics - the interior is shabby at best. In that regard, I'd be interested if anyone seeing this knows if grey upholstery was available in vinyl in 1966? Mine appears to be MBtex but the World Upholstery site indicates grey was leather only. Thanks.
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Peter, Welcome on board!
You have found the right place for starting this journey. I would highly recommend you get familiar with the search function (the one in the row starting with "Home").
I just tried using "grey vinyl upholstery" - without the quote marks when you do the search (the quote marks limit the search to the exact phrase in the quotes). I came back with a single page of threads, would be a good place to start.
Also, since you have had the car from long term family ownership, do you have the data card? This will be very helpful as it answers questions about paint code, interior, options, etc.
Good luck, we are all here to help
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Welcome to the group, Peter!
Since you are a full member, you have access to the Technical Manual. Here is a page from it that shows upholstery codes and colors:
https://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/UpholsteryCodes (https://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/UpholsteryCodes)
As you can see, upholstery code 118 was light grey MB-Tex and was available for 230SLs. I have a '66 with upholstery code 119, white-grey. I have just been through the process of trying to find a supplier of replacement vinyl in that color, and failed; only the more "standard" colors appear to be available now. (I wound up ordering a custom-matched dye and re-dyeing my interior, which is in good shape even after 55 years.)
Good luck with your restoration!
-David
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Thanks to you both, David and Johnny, for the immediate responses. I think I'm going to like this group! It seems clear that what I need is the data card for my car. Can you direct me to the source here in the US? MB classic center in CA? David, in your experience, will a dye application hold up on the seats. Also, who was your supplier?
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Hi Peter,
Welcome to the Group. Interesting history on your car and gives incentive to bring it back to its former glory. The data card is available from MB Classic Centre in Irvine CA. They will charge you $150 i believe nowadays where a few years ago they were happy to give them for free.
I have also done some recolouring but in leather in my 1965 230sl with success about five years ago and it is standing up just fine at this point.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Peter,
Near the end of this thread I have a couple of post with photos and details of my re-dyeing project:
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=25288 (https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=25288)
The dye seems quite durable, and I expect it to hold up well.
-David
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Greetings All - I have been the proud 2nd owner of a 1967 230sl since 2014. I refer to the original owner as my second father, as he and my dad were best friends since the age of 3. He bought the car new in Dallas, Texas with a hard top and AC, no radio (I actually love the factory 190sl name plate in lieu of the radio). It was always garage kept, and was parked in the late '70's with clogged fuel injectors. He threatened to sell the car in the early '80's, and I told him he could not do that, because I couldn't afford to buy it then, and I could not bear to see it go. He held on to it for me, and in 2014 we had the injectors cleaned and some other miscellaneous items taken care of, and she has driven like a dream ever since. It currently has 72K original miles, and I don't put more than a-hundred-or-two miles per year on it.
I have been a longtime member of the International 190sl club, and have found that group to be an amazing resource of valuable information. I am in Baltimore, MD, and was was excited when they had a national event in PA, affording me the opportunity to drive my 190 to PA to participate in the activities; it was a ton of fun. I only recently heard about this club while looking at a 230sl on Bring-A-Trailer.
My two sons seem to enjoy the lines/look of the 190 over the 230, but as I tell them, the 190 has a lawn mower engine in it when compared to the 230. And at 6'4", the 230 accommodates my frame far better than the petite 190. I LOVE driving my 230; I love the sound, the feel, and of course the multitude of boyhood recollections of being in the passenger seat of the same care are irreplaceable.
I am happy to join the group, although I hope I don't need many of the resources, as that would suggest I might be having problems with the car! :) Thanks for having me. All the Best!
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Willy
Very surprised it took you 7 years to find this club! But then again, since you did not have to “find” your car, you didn’t have a need to find this club.
Sounds like you have a nice history with the 230 and a couple of other wonderful cars.
Welcome
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Hi Everyone.
Reading all of these great introductions compelled me to add mine. My name is Tom and I live in Chicago. I have a '66 250SL that I bought over 20 years ago. I only remember how long ago because it has a kinder seat in the back, and when the kids were young I could double-buckle two in the front seat and one in the kinder seat to take them to T-ball and soccer. Like some of you, I certainly could have done more research before I bought it . . . but that's ancient history. Generally it's been and remains a good car, though not entirely original. But it looks and runs good at 118,000 miles and I won't ever sell it, so I'm not really worried about concours or perfection or how much it is or isn't worth.
I've maintained it well over the years but never had any restorative work done, but now I'm seriously considering a restoration on the interior as the MB tex has a few cuts, the seat springs are shot, the wood is parched and I'd also like to find an original Becker radio to replace the bad 90's cassette deck the previous owner installed.
Bottom line - I love the car and have enjoyed it all these years, and looking forward to more to come. Thanks to everyone who wrote intros - what a good idea to do this!
Best Regards!
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Thanks, Garry. $150 seems a lot but if you needs it, you need it!
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Good info, thanks. Once I have a data card to be sure, I contact your supplier and see if they can help. May have to find a small piece of vinyl I can send them to match.
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Long time dreamer, first time poster!
Learned of the site through a BaT auction. I’m still hunting my first Pagoda, but looking forward to diving into all the context and learnings from the group here!
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Hi Long Time Dreamer, :)
Welcome to our site, here you will find help with most of the questions that will surface and you will find the folks here quite helpful. Unfortunately, our Technical Manual is restricted for Full Members only. Membership to our International site is only pennies per day ($30/Year) and provides great savings to our Members.
Anyway you are looking for a Pagoda I wish you good luck with this task. There are a few to be found out there. I recommend once you found one, take it to a knowlagable Mechanic and have it checked out. Ask for a report as to what needs to be done including estimated costs for each task. It will give you power once you negosiate the price. In the meantime have a look into our Technical Manial under Prepurchase ... I believe it is one area that is not restricted to Associate Members.
https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Buying/PrepurchaseEvaluation
Good Luck with your hunt!
Dieter
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Tom250sl
The main point is to enjoy our hobby cars and it reads like you really do. From your photo it’s not easy to tell if you have an early 250 or a late 250. Typically a ‘66 would be an early 250 but I recall seeing a dash photo under radio help and your dash pad looked like a late 250. Doesn’t matter which you have except when you are looking for parts as some parts are not interchangeable.
Good that you posted your story.
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Hi yes I would be very interested Uk member
Many thanks Kevin
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Seeing Tom's 250 attachment photos, I thought I would add two images of my 230 for the record. Best to you all.
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New member Fonzi aka MKNMike in Wilmington, Delaware (DE USA). I joined because I have two mechanical injection w108 cars I am looking to learn as well as I’ve learned D-Jetronic and K-Jetronic. The cars that I’m looking to awake from hibernation are:
1969 280se (US Automatic) that will be parted.
1967 250se 4-speed that will be put back on the road.
I do dream of owning a pagoda some day. I have an extensive collection of 70’s-80’s MB which I’d trade almost all of to get just one pagoda. The only one I would have a hard time letting go would be my 1978 450slc 5.0 custom convertible.
I forgot to link the list of my collection including the “no regrets pricing” I put on each of the projects.
http://www.mkngarage.com/items/0mb0cars/
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New member.....new owner with 68 250Sl! Bought to sell, but not anymore...she is sticking around for a long time. Although a little rough, I have grown to love her. Looking for a group W113 in Scottsdale, AZ or surrounding area???
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Welcome to the Group.
There are 8 members in Scottsdale and i am sure more in the surrounding towns
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Hello All,
I’ve recently purchased a 1969 280SL Automatic in need of TLC. Joining the Pagoda SL Group was a really good decision – I’m amazed at the information on the site. I’ve been a car nut all my life, lived in several countries, and am finally retired. It’s reassuring to know there are lots of folks who have gone through, our are going through what I’m trying to do. It’s great to know that I won’t have to spend as much time in the “school of hard knocks” this time.
Mark
1969 280 SL Green Automatic
1966 250 SE Coupe
1966 BMW 2000CS
1967 Porsche 912
2011 SL 550
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Mark,
Welcome to the group. As you have realised there is a wealth of information here and the search button in the Home line is your friend. That button will search the whole of the forum and tech manual. The other search button at top right on the page only searches the area you are in on the Forum. Trap for the unknowing..
Enjoy the ride.
Garry
Membership Administrator International
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Thanks Garry, Received your welcome letter today in the post. I sold my previous 280SL in 2016 and moved to Porsche for a few years. The Porsche has now gone and I've returned to where my heart is and now the proud owner of 2 x 280SL's living in Newcastle, NSW. I haven't seen any other Pagodas on the road here but maybe they are in hiding. At the recent German Car Show, hosted by MB, the Pagoda was an absentee.....next year there will be two!
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Mark (@valzer102), welcome to the forum. Thanks for posting a picture of your car. I see that your car is wearing an Alabama vintage license plate. Does this mean you bought the car in Alabama?
We would like to hear more about how you found it and we would also be interested in seeing some additional pictures. Again welcome!
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Hello Ralph, and Thank you!
I did indeed buy the car in Alabama. The story of finding it is somewhat bittersweet. It belonged to a gentleman who recently passed. A good friend of mine for many years called me one day to say his neighbor was selling his classics and wanted to know if I was interested. So we took a trip up both to visit my friend and see the cars. The seller was fighting a valiant fight against cancer, but was determined to make everything easier for his family by reducing his fleet.
There were 2 cars. The Pagoda, and something I had never considered: A '67 Porsche 912. I test-drove both cars. The 912 was in far better shape, and was ready to drive the 400 mi home. The Pagoda, not so much. I made an offer on the 912, which was accepted, and I offered to take the Pagoda at a later date, if the seller couldn't find another buyer. So I picked up the 912 and we went home.
About a year later, I got another call. Sadly, the seller had passed, and the family remembered my offer, and took me up on it. We had to have the Pagoda trailered down, because the car wasn't capable of making the trip. So in the meantime, I've started the process of getting the car ready for the body shop, bought many new parts, fixed many systems. Given the bizarre employment climate we're currently in, the body shop that painted the 912 has put me off for several months while they try to find qualified workers.... not a good sign. But I'm patient. So there you have it. But the saga continues!
All the best,
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Hello Mark,
Welcome to the group. Interesting story how you made contact with an old frend and eventually purchased both his cars. They are both fine automobiles. Enjoy them. The Pagoda loves to be driven once in shape.
Best Dieter
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Thanks for the story Mark, and for the additional pictures. As you sort the Pagoda, keep the forum advised. There is a lot of help available here if needed.
How about a picture of the Pagoda with the 1966 250SE? Two cars from the same period. Should be great together!
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Uncovered in a tent, deep in the Colorado countryside, 45 minutes off of paved roads. It took dirt/gravel roads to get here. This 230SL #001930 sat since 1992 with a supposed 1,000 kilometers since a complete motor rebuild. Speedo/odometer reads in kilometers. Same owner since 1979. Full set of photos shown on Facebook Group “Mercedes-Benz SL (W113) Pagoda”
This is my first Pagoda and have been waiting forever to get one. Any advice on what to do next & where to start is greatly appreciated. Just arrived to its new home in Allentown, Pennsylvania last night. Most exciting car purchase. I’m happy to be part of this group. Thank you for accepting my request to join.
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Great find and Welcome to our Pagoda SL Group, the next most exciting step you can take now is to take out Full Membership for $30/year it will give you access to all the benefits of this site. Check out the benefits.
Here _—-> https://www.sl113.org/wiki/About/Membership
Dieter
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Welcome to the Group.
First thing to do is join as a Full Member and gain full access to the Technical Manual that will help you immensely.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Hello SL Community,
I am introducing myself and hopefully beginning to engage and utilize your community. My namer is Kirk and I am in Oregon. In 2019, I purchased a basket case 230sl as a partial retirement project. I am a "in for a penny, in for a pound" guy, which clearly will be required here. At this point a have totally disassembled the car and have rehabbed every part I have and replaced the bits that were too far gone. I have included a couple collages of my progress. I have tons more photos. Things have slowed down at this point as I am doing a lot of time consuming metal work. Any thoughts, stories, advice, etc. is welcomed. Or perhaps just an introduction.
Best,
Kirk
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Welcome to the group, Kirk. You certainly have yourself a major project underway. Thanks for posting the pictures. We would love to follow your progress as you move ahead. As a suggestion, you might want to start a new thread, "Kirk's 230 Restoration", or something similar and indicate where you are now and then update it at whatever interval is convenient for you. You can explain what you are doing, problems you encounter, ask for advise if needed and post a few pictures along the way. We enjoy the pictures!
Just a suggestion, again welcome to the forum.
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Thank You Ralph,
I will do just that. We have had 115 degree weather in Oregon and the AC died so I've been otherwise occupied. Planning a big push to get the body back on the axles this summer. Stay Tuned!
Kirk
66 230sl
65 Ford f-100 short bed
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Hi All
I have just joined and I am based in the U.K. in the county of Essex, just outside London.
Just going through the process of purchasing my first Pagoda, a 230sl in Tunis Beige. Specialist MB restorer Roger Edwards will be carrying out a pre purchase inspection in a couple of weeks, so assuming all is ok, I will be the proud owner of a wonderful car. I will post photos once I have the car.
Fantastic forum BTW
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Welcome Trevor, fingers crossed on your acquisition!
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Good to see you on here Trevor, I replied to your fb post a few days ago.
Looking forward to seeing the car, great colour!
Rahul
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Hi Rahul
Thanks for your brilliant response on FB. Yes, decided to take the plunge. Probably paying over the odds, but the general responses I got was to go for as much as you could afford. Fingers crossed that the pre purchase appraisal goes ok. I will definitely post some images if it goes well
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Hey hey! New member, first post. I’m now the proud owner of the family pagoda here in Maine. She’s a 1970 280 SL roadster in white, with a blue hard top & blue leather interior. All original one owner 55kmi. Even have the original sales receipt. She’s currently undergoing an interior deep clean and a few tune ups before getting fully back on the road after sitting in a garage for 20+ Years. Hope to get a few weekend drives in before the snow flies. Posting picture soon.
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Hello and welcome
In my humble opinion one of the best colourways, but then i am biased as it's the same as mine!
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Grip, welcome to the forum.
Are you saying that your car has been in your family from new? If this is the case or if it is recently new to your family, we look forward to hearing the story and seeing some more pictures.
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Hello Everyone!
Since I saw my first Pagoda in Greenwich CT, USA, as a 10-year-old NYC kid I've been in love with them. Now, nearing my 40th birthday, I saved up enough to hopefully get a good driving example. Have been monitoring BaT and Hagerty prices for some time now, but I would love some advice on how to get started with the hunt and what to look out for. I am located in Connecticut, USA.
Thanks!
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Grip,
I would highly recommend you splurge (only a small amount) and sign up as a full member of the forum. The technical manual provides a wealth of information about the car, how to get it going, how to keep it going, etc.
Well worth the $30/year
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Hi sl113.org members.
I'm a new w113 owner as my username suggests. Looking forward to interacting here as im sure I'll have tons of newbie questions.
Mine is a relatively rust free Euro 67 230SL 4 speed. Definitely a ok-maintained driver imported from France in the 70s, lived its life in the US in DE. Originally Mercedes blue/ black mb-tex interior, now Dupont gold with olive top and hub cap centers (repaint back to original may be a part of future plans). My most immediate punch list is:
1) replace or rebuild water pump (original 2 bolt serviceable unit) as it is mildly leaking from the shaft when running
2) address a misfire/ fuel issue evident at 2500-3000 rpm
- replace points with elect ignition
- check fuel pressure/replace injectors
- new plugs
3) PO had his mechanic wire a toggle switch to activate CSV, bypassing the CS relay and TTS. Will return this to original (looks like he ran new wires to solenoid so harness appears to be intact
4) PO had his mechanic wire a start button b/c the ignition switch stoped activating starter. Will return this to original/ replace or repair ignition switch
5) replace US spec headlights for Euro (PO did this in 70's)
6) troubleshoot heat blower fan/ mixer controls
7) normal break check/ chassis lube
My goal is to create a reliable dry weather driver not a restoration, but I want to keep it as original as possible. If anyone has comments on my plans, or additional suggestions, please let me know!
Thanks
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Thanks - I actually did pay for a full membership, but it says it takes a few days to validate my PayPal? Anyway, hoping to get access to all of the content ASAP
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Your information in the comment window shows "Full Member" so you should have complete access. If not please let us know at admin@sl113.org.
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Hi Joseph,
Welcome to the Group. Your full access kicked in when the payment was made. You have full access to all parts of the Forum and Tech Manual and will in future receive Pagoda notes and the Pagoda World magazine.
Ask lots of questions and post lots of photos. There is a wealth of knowledge here and plenty of members willing to help you maintain and improve your Pagoda.
Garry
Membership Administrator
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Good morning,
new member and my first experience owning an older Mercedes. I live in Bellingham, Wa, and recently retired after 32 years in the Marine Corps. Single and no kids so I have to buy toys for someone, figured it might as well be me. I do a little contracting work overseas when needing extra funds for projects but other than that I am finishing my college degree after dropping out 32 years ago.
1964 230 SL
1964 Corvair convertible
1970 Plymouth 'Cuda
1980 International Scout Traveller
1984 Toyota FJ Land Cruiser
2003 CL 55 AMG #1-2 condition
Thanks,
Pete
Could really use some help with the VIN for my 64 230SL if anyone can point me in the right direction.
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Hello Pete, hello and welcome
I'm new to the group as well and i've found a wealth of knowledge and experience on here, from the simple to the technical
If you search the technical manual you'll find most information that you need, information about the VIN is under "data card", here's a quick link to it
Good luck!
https://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/VIN
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Hi, I think I was a member of this forum many years ago. A little about me, I own a fabrication company in Ottawa Canada specializing in hot rods, customs and race cars. I owned a 1968 250SL for a few years until 2015. It was my grandfather’s, I sold it to help finance a hit rod build. If I was doing European sports cars I would have kept it but such as life. I joined as a few years ago I did an engine swap in a 1965 230SL, he spun the bearing in #1 connecting rod. In any case he no longer has the car so I am parting out the engine. I will be posting in classified in the next day or so.
Thanks,
Sean
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Hi Everyone,
I am a new member from Niagara on The Lake, I live in Toronto full time and part time in Niagara. I am about to purchase a 1964 230SL, a true barn find that has an amazing back story. If my purchase goes through I can share more of that information with all of you, trust me, it's an amazing story, a bit sad, a bit uplifting too.
I have been doing a lot of research on here and through a few other you tube channels and a very heartfelt thank you for having such amazing information. I feel comfortable with what I am about to do and really would love to connect with any "local" members, in Toronto or Niagara region.
My name is Michael, I am 51. I drive a mercedes as a daily driver, but this will be my first vintage car and I couldn't be more excited.
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Welcome to the family Michael. Looking forward to your story. My Pagoda was my first vintage car as well.
I am in Jordan, between TO and NOTL, just west of St. Catharines. Drop me a PM if you want to touch base.
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Hi Michael,
Welcome to the Pagoda SL Group, you have found and joined a truly International group with Members from all around the world.
I organized a weekend event last September you may have seen it. For your Info I am attaching this link we had several Ontario Members get together on that weekend and had a wonderful time. The highlight of our event was a lunch and wine tasting at the 13 street winery. Hope all goes well with your purchase of that 230 SL.
---> https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=33518.0
The 2 photos were taken at our lunch at the 13 street winery.
Good Luck
Dieter
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Just joined group. Have just purchased a 1971 automatic on Bring a Trailer. Bit of an accident really as had been watching for a couple of years, put in one bid and ended up a proud owner. Named Pandora for fairly obvious reasons…I find something interesting every time I open a door or compartment. Sadly all of her history has disappeared under previous ownership. Can’t prove mileage or experience but kind of fun. Appears to be almost original with repaint to factory color in early 90’s. Maybe some front end damage as headlight grooves and Mercedes’ hood badge missing during repaint.
Runs fine, starts and stops, maintains charge and all electrics work. Air conditioner may need some attention but runs and blows warm air.
For some reason there is no major rust, original glass, engine and transmission, full tool roll, full factory books including parts book and radio books. Tool roll included original plastic fuse box with original fuses in place which was kind of amazing after 50 years. Picture attached by lake in French quarter Charleston SC.
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Welcome Swissomatic!
Nice color combination and if any questions, we're here to help (and check out the Tech Manual for lots of useful information).
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Welcome to the group!
Great setting for the photo, Charleston is a wonderful place.
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Hello everyone. My name is J.J Daigneault and I have just upgraded from associate to full member. I have been using this site on and off for a few years and have always been curious/appreciative of owners posting meaningful and helpful content. I bought my car at the age of 19 years old in Vancouver Canada and have been driving it for 37 years now. although I don't know much about mechanics, I have, in the past two years replaced my alternator and the bushings of my "69 280 SL manual stick shift. I am now retired as an NHL hockey player and coach residing in Scottsdale AZ. This group and the knowledge shared will help me to upgrade my red #576 MB, as I look to educate myself on doing some of the minor repairs.
Regards, J.J
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JJ,
Welcome to the group and I'm sure your full membership will be of great benefit to you! I also own a #576 Red! Just reach out for any help you need.
Tony
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JjD69Sl,
You got your pagoda at age 19 !!! I think you will win the award for youngest Pagoda owner ever.
There was guy in college named Fred (gallo?) that had a light blue pagoda - it was probably about 1989 — he might have been 21 or so.
Amazing that you still have the car. Great.
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Hello J.J.,
What a great story - love it. Welcome to the group.
I was already 23 years old when I got my 1st Pagoda...; so, pretty old. ;D
You have to write down your story of you and your car for our Pagoda World magazine...;
Jonny B - our editor - will get in contact with you.
Great story, enjoy - and ask questions whenever you feel for it.
Take care,
Achim
(SL owner for 36 1/2 years)
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Hello Jean-Jacques,
Welcome again and thanks for taking my advice to introduce yourself here in this thread that I included when I prepared your welcoming package. As a former Montrealer myself having lived there from 1957 to 1979 and a great hokey fan your name did ring a bell when I prepared the envelope with your welcoming package.
We have many great peole on this site Doctors, Lawers, Engineers etc. (Cees started a tread on this way back in 2005) and it has grown and is a very interesting read on a rainy day :)
see it here -----> https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=3825.0
I do agree that your story along with the attachement will make a great story in our Pagoda World Magazine. A back copy ofthe magazine along with a welcoming letter from our President including 2 logo window stickers for your car should have arrived in your inbox by now.
Once again welcome to our group! and happy Pagoda driving
Dieter
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Hello!
Just joined as a full member. I am driving a 1970 280SL, one that my dad purchased at Lloyd Peasons, Pasadena Ca. in April 1970. I attached a photo of me in it on the day he brought it home!
It was his daily drive for many years, and it continues to this day in fine running condition. I respectively keep the SL up to the same standards that my dad would find pleasing.
I look forward reading others stories about one iconic Mercedes-Benz.
Mike
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Good looking car and it is great she is in the family since the beginning!
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Nice looking car Mike, as Pawel68 mentioned nice when a car is keept in the famaly like this.
Welcome to our Group !
Dieter
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Welcome to the group, Mike. Lovely car!
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Hello to you all!
I am a proud owner of a '65 230 SL (manual with a M130 engine). Bought it 10 years ago from a man who had imported it from Sweden unseen. He was no mechanic, and found it to expensive to repair a Pagoda in Norway. It was in a reasonable state, but had some issues. I am a hobby mechanic and got it in a driveable condition and used it for a few years. But, because of more and more blue smoke I found it was time to refurbish the engine. This has been a long process... The enige is now as good as new, which includes balancing of the crankshaft and weighing of the piston with conrods. My goal is now to have it ready to the spring arrives here in Norway.
Looking forward to have the opportunity to use your knowledge on the W113 to sort out some questions I have when I now put it all together, and fixing some issues that I have found during this process with restoring the car.
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Welcome to the group! I am sure you will be able to sort through the issues you see with your 230 SL.
There is a nice contingent of Pagodas in Scandinavia. They even have a regular meet up.
You can check it out at www.skandinaviskpagodetreff.wordpress.com
I would suspect the pandemic has slowed their meetings down.
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Thank you, Jonny B.
I will check the site you mentioned :)
I have used som time today to check the different forums here, and found useful information regarding a length on the rod between the heater core (to the cabin ventilation) and the fresh air "flap". It is missing on my car. I've tried to find information on this rod on the internet before without any luck.
The Technical Manual is just awesome!! I've been looking for a colour coded wiring diagram for a long time. The Haynes manual is not suitable on this matter. Now I know which loose cables i must connect to the fusebox to fix my not functioning fog lamps... ;D
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Great news! I was able to buy this '64 230SL.
It's a true barn find. It's been in storage since 1981. heated, dry garage, covered and driven and kept running by a mechanic throughout it's storage. Turns over on the first turn of the key. Needs a lot of work, but I'm buying it for fun and will slowly fix it up.
The back story on the car is a bit sad. It was purchased in 1979 by a 17 year old that fixed it up for a few years, he called it his baby. Tragically, he died in a car accident the summer before going to college (not in this car). His Mom kept the car in storage since 1981, and in my friends' barn since 1996. She's in her last stage of cancer and decided to sell the car. I promised her that I will make sure to honour her sons' wishes and fix the car up, not for a flip but to enjoy it. Once I get it repainted I plan on putting his name in the glove box or somewhere in the car so he's not forgotten. This was his dream and I just want to make sure it's honoured.
As a parent I couldn't imagine the heartbreak and completely understand why she could never bring herself to sell the car until now.
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Hallo Michael,
Welcome to our Group, yes it is indeed a great story as you pointed out. Too sad that the previous owner lost his life at such a young age.
We had a get together last year with some 15 plus Members at NOTL and the Falls. You may or may have not seen the posts ....
Here ----> https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=33518.0
(copy and paste the link into your browser)
It ended up somewhat complex since the original Events were canceled due to Covid 19, however, in the end all turned out well. We had a great time at NOTL, the Falls and the surounding area. We might just do it again in the Fall of 2022 or 2023.
We organized also a wine tasting and lunch in a secluded area for our group of cars at the 13 Street winery and a lunch at the same t=ime with intertainment, each bottle of wine we tasted was opened (using members' wives) in the old traditional way using a special sord (see photo's). It was a great weekend.
I see from your Profile that you joined the Group here in Dec. 2021. You may have noticed that many topics are Restricted and are only available to Full Members. If you like to safe a few thpisand dollars in your endevor to fix up some of the issues on your car then I encurage you to join our group as a Full Member it will open up this site to you 100%
Best of luck with your car, we see you in the forim
Rolf-Dieter
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Thank you!
Just joined as a full member. I look forward to the journey!
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Micael, Looking forward to meet you. I was in the middle of posting the photos when you replyed to my post.
I will post to you this afternoon our Welcoming Package.
Regards,
Dieter
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Thanks Dieter, also here is a picture of the vin plate. I'm assunming this would be a very early model
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Hi Michael,
Yes, it looks like an early model. I send you a PM with two links on our site you will find interesting (check your e-mail). The area here is the open forum area and I don't like to post the link here, however, if the area is restricted only Full Members like yourself can access it.
Your friend here is the Search Function, use it when you need something. Don't be shy to ask questions in the appropriate forum areas, you will find some very helpful and knowledgeable folks here.
Best,
Dieter
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Hi - My name is Olaf (like the snowman ;-) ) and I'm from Germany and since a couple month I enjoy this community. I live close to brunswiek in the middle of Germany. Since years I own a US classic car (1970 Mercury Cougar XR7 Convertible) but since last septemper there is also a 1966 230 SL Pagoda - to be restored. At this way I hope, I can learn mor about the Pagoda all over the world. Every year I spend time in the US to visit friends and look for new projects.
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Hi Olaf,
Welcome to our truly international site. As you may know by now here you find members from all around th e world. Once you decide to join us as a full member the entire site will open up to you and it will provide for you information that will help you with your restauration project. Fine looking cars by te way.
Grüße aus Kannada
Dieter
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Nice Cougar! I had a friend who had a green one with white interior and top that he bought new and kept for over 30 years until someone made him an offer he couldn't refuse. Frankly, the color of your car shows the lines off much better! Is the engine a 289 or a 351 (4.7 or 5.7L)?
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@mike Its a 351 Cleveland with 2 barrel carb and fmx automatic. 🤩
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Making my introduction. Handle is Oski98. Real name is Billy. I have been fortunate to have already interacted with a few long-standing members of this community. I inherited my Pagoda passion from my father and am in process of passing it down to my sons. My objective is to drive and enjoy these cars with my family and friends. I'm in the Los Angeles area and happy to connect with any other members if they are so inclined. Cheers. For those that are interested, I post pictures of my travels on Instagram using the handle @lostrespagodas. See you on the road or at Cars and Coffee.
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Thanks Dieter, also here is a picture of the vin plate. I'm assunming this would be a very early model
At #71 this car must have been built in the first few days of production!
Hello Michael, Olaf, Billy!
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Hi everyone! thanks for having me lurk in such good information pool
Just bought my first Pagoda! actually my first MB as well. I live in Mexico City and have about 10 cars in my collection. Long time Peugeot fan and have raced rallies and circuit.
Bought a 1968 280SL in Los Angeles, getting her(?) fixed for a Pacific Coast trip and then importing it to Mexico.
Cheers!
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Hi,
My wife and I are long time lovers of W113 and it looks like we are finally able to consider buying one. We collect, enjoy, and mostly drive European cars. I hope that some of you can help guide us in our search. In preparation of getting an SL, a few years ago we bought a 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280S sedan and have been driving it, working on it and getting acquainted with the brand and experience.
Here is our Mercedes that our SL will share a garage with (alongside one of our other German cars - 1973 Opel GT):
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51633883046_5ee93cabb3_z.jpg)
Current collection: 1966 Lotus Elan S2 S/E roadster, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280S (with 4 speed column shifted manual), 1968 Lancia Fulvia Rallye Coupe 1.3, 1969 Alfa Romeo 1750 Spider Veloce,, 1973 Opel GT, 1973 Triumph TR6, 1973 Porsche 914, 1979 Triumph Spitfire (with GT6 engine conversion - a Spit6), 2003 Jaguar XKR, 2005 Lotus Elise
Thanks in advance for guiding us on our Pagoda path.
Dan
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Dan,
Welcome to the group. You are no stranger to the wonders of old cars, and I hope you find a great experience with the Pagoda. The folks on this site are always ready to assist.
I would strongly recommend you become familiar with the search function. This is the search that is accessed in the row of items beginning with "Home". Using this search will look at all the forum posts. The search shown at the top right will only search the forum you are currently reading.
Kind regards, and good luck!
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Hullo,
My name is Calvin and I live in Alberta Canada. I've owned lots of 1970s and newer MB's and I'm looking to acquire a W113 within the next two years or so. I currently have a 1966 250SE W108 and my ideal Pagoda would be a European headlamp 250SL with manual shift, no AC, and no PS.
I've also had an R107, C140, W124, W123, and W220 in the past. I'm currently on my fifth W210 and have a w221 I use in the summer.
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Calvin
Welcome. If you find a North American 250, changing the headlights to Euro is easy. If it has AC, it’s easy to remove and sell it to someone in Florida ;D. Finding one without power steering may not be easy.
Good luck and keep this group informed.
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With regard to finding one without power steering, it is worth noting that the power steering on a Pagoda is nicely weighted, with good road feel, in contrast to the numb "twirl the wheel with one finger" power steering more common to most North American cars of the era. I own plenty of sports cars with "armstrong" steering and find that I often gravitate to taking out the Pagoda simply because one of the many joys of driving it is its ease of handling in parking situations.
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Agree with everything that has been said about P/S. Having worked for most of my corporate career for manufacturers of P/S pumps I am a huge fan of P/S in a car. Especially, if it is finely tuned as in the W113. The only car I own that does not have P/S is my 914-6 and because of the light front end does not really need it. P/S is not only for parking. It provides easier control at high corner speeds. It should have a good "positive center" feel. The P/S in the SL checks all the boxes.
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Welcome Calvin,
Nice that you joined our fine group. Good luck with the hunt for your dream Pagoda.
Calvin, as you are looking for that Pagoda have the PPI list near by here is the kink -----> https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Buying/Start
Rolf Dieter
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My name is Robert, I’m 71 and I reside in Ben Lomond CA & Mililani HI. I have had this 1967 pagoda since 1984. Have enjoyed it daily from taking it skiing in Tahoe to driving down the mountain roads from San Francisco to Santa Cruz. In 1991 I had my father’s mechanic install a used engine and put the original engine on an engine stand and there it stayed. Now the used engine is old and I’m attempting to rebuild original one. I keep the pagoda here in CA and have a 1946 Chevy coupe in MililaniHI. I’m excited to be a new member and converse with others who love their Pagodas like I do!
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Welcome Robert,
Nice to see you followed the link and introduced yourself here! I will be posting tomorrow your welcoming package as I stated to you in my welcoming e-mail it will contain a back copy of our Pagoda World Magazine, a Letter from our President and 2 window stickers for your car.
Stay safe and happy sunny Pagoda top down drives!
Dieter
Membership Director
Pagoda SL Group
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Great site…I’ve wasted no time becoming a full member as the information provided is amazing! Just picked up a 4 speed 1965 230SL from Silver Arrow Motors in Victoria, BC. I’ve always loved the W113 design and I too was born in 1965 and have wanted to have a vehicle from the same year and this just presented itself! Not a pristine concours car but it drives well and I’m not necessarily going to worry endlessly about it. Picked it up this last Saturday and promptly did a 650km trip back home at 32C temperatures with 200km’s at 38C over the Coquihalla Highway where there was no lack of cars parked prior to the summit with hoods up! No a/c and the hard-top was on so I seemed to feel the heat more than the car. The 230 was given a good go over by Coachwerks in Victoria so I have confidence but I do want to keep up on things in order to have a car that is as reliable as it can be. Any suggestions on parts that I can keep in stock that would make any ‘down-time’ shortened would be gladly accepted. I look forward to gleaning as much info as possible from The Pagoda SL group!
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Welcome! You are in good company! Congratulations on your purchase!
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Rich, Welcome to the community!
Try using the Search function to answer your question about spares. There is a LOT of information.
Take a look at Pagoda Notes issues:
Volume 9 No 2
Volume 13 No 1
These are available in the technical manual.
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Hi Rich,
Nice to see you here and welcome again yo our group! Did you get the welcome package okay and my forerunner e-mail with some helpful links?
Re; Parts I use Budds Benz for parts
Check here ===> https://www.budsbenz.com/catalog/230-250-280-sl
Dieter
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Hi Rich,
Nice to see you here and welcome again yo our group! Did you get the welcome package okay and my forerunner e-mail with some helpful links?
Re; Parts I use Budds Benz for parts
Check here ===> https://www.budsbenz.com/catalog/230-250-280-sl
Dieter
Thanks for the welcome and the Budds Benz referral! Have received your forerunner email and will await the mailed out welcome package...thanks again.
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Welcome to the group.
Great picture of the Port Mann bridge. I find that all I have on hand is an oil filter, fuel filter and spark plugs. I keep some fuses under the parcel shelf in the car but have never needed them. I was able to source the oil and fuel filter from Lordco. I drive top down most of the time so have leather wipes in the trunk to remove bird poop.
Enjoy
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Aloha! I am Robert P. Smith, retired with my wife and son in Volcano, Hawaii. I have been a hobby car collector, off and on, for 50+ years. I just purchased a restored 1967 250SL California Coupe. I also recently joined the Pagoda SL Group as a full member, and added my car to the Registry.
I'm really impressed with the Pagoda SL Group, and hope to be speaking with many of you all through the forum. I owned a 1973 450SL years ago, but this is my first Pagoda, and I'm thrilled! See details below:
1. Member Name: Robert P. Smith
2. Year/Model:1967 250SL California Coupe
3. Colors:Body and Hardtop Light Ivory (670 H), Upholstery Bronze Leather (218), Tonneau Cover Brown (437)
4. VIN: 113.043 12 004078
5, Engine Number: 129.982 12 002073
6. Options: California Coupe (417), Automatic Transmission and Power Steering (426), Front Safety Belts (431), Automatic Antenna Without Radio Set and Interference Suppression W/O Radio Set (535), Garnich Mouldings on Hardtop (600), Tonneau Cover (288) in Brown Color (437), Leather Upholstery in Bronze Color (218)
7. Mileage: 74,034 (total mileage unknown, TMU)
8. Built in Hanover, Germany area, September 29, 1967. Shipped from Germany to Hawaii by active US Army Major in 1979. Barn find on Hawaii Island in 2013. Completely restored 2017.
Mahalo nui loa! (Thank you very much!)
Robert
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Robert, welcome to the group! We are at the ready to help with questions, issues, etc.
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Hi
Nice to meet you all, I just purchased a late production 1971 280 sl. The car is now in Jordan and was imported around 3 years ago from the US, it is an American spec car. How can I find out more information about the history of the car, ownership etc. The car has no manuals or original documents.
Husam
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Husam,
First of all, welcome to the group! This is the place to learn about the car.
Second, I would highly recommend you spend the US $30 for full membership which gives you access to the technical manual. This is an awesome resource for the car.
History of a particular car is a more difficult kind of thing. The previous owner would be a good starting point if that is possible. I don't know about availability of ownership history from the car licensing etc authorities out there. Local laws may preclude getting past data (privacy laws and all that).
Finally - post a picture! We just love pictures.
Again, welcome
Jon
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New here. I don't have a 113 but I'm looking at saving one from the body shop I send some work to. Joined to do some research.
I have a manual 67 250se w108 and I'm wondering what parts/if any parts can go into a w113. I'm not keeping the m129 or trans in the w108 (swapping in a m272 or m113) so I think it's drivetrain would serve w113 well.
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Hello from California. After looking for more than a year, I finally got a 1969 280SL from the original family that owned it. Looking forward to working on it, and making it perfect mechanically. Any tips where I can purchase a parts manual.
Ray
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Hi Ray,
Welcome to our site!
Visit Bud's Benz here ---> https://www.budsbenz.com/catalog/230-250-280-sl
They have a nice Parts Catalogue.
eBay has parts catalogus sometime for sale for the w113
Dieter
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That's a lovely car, congratulations!
Now that you have found it, think about upgrading to a full membership so you can take advantage of the wonderful compilation of technical information available to full members, not to mention Pagoda World magazine several times per year.
I hope your new Pagoda gives you as much joy as mine has me!
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Ray
Welcome!
There are several catalogues to be aware of from MB:
10808 - Chassis and Body spare parts list US Version Edition A as of October 1972
10202 - Chassis and Body spare parts list, Edition C, as of January 1972
10145 - Engine Motor type 130 Edition A as of January 1968
10180 - Engine Motor type 130 Edition B as of March 1971
The later editions are probably the one to look for. eBay is your friend, but these will not be cheap
The Haynes manual for the Pagoda is also an excellent shop manual
I will also offer the advice to join as a full member. Access to the tech manual is worth the small price.
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Hello, everyone
I'm new here :)
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Welcome to the group!
Do you have a Pagoda? Are you looking for one?
If you have one, please post a picture or two, we just love to see photos.
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Hello all, I am a proud owner of a '69 280sl, white and blue (two-tone). Bought from my uncle's estate, he bought it new in '69 (after trading in a 1961 190sl !!). It has 86k original miles, he used it as a daily driver for about 10 years and then infrequently through the '80s. It was parked in my grandmother's garage since about 1988 and left there until this year when I finally rescued it. Yes, this is a barn find. I had no idea what happened to the car over the years, this was quite the surprise after he passed. The reason I know it was around 1988 was because of the inspection sticker still on the window.
My uncle was a mechanical engineer and after about 4-5 years of servicing the car at a mechanic (I have some receipts), he did a lot of the maintenance himself. I don't think he Frankensteined anything on the engine or car, save for an after-market radio he put in below the dash, which is definitely going to be removed.
This is an un-restored car, still has most of the components as original. Have not encountered many missing parts. Intact grille, seats are not ripped, engine looks ok if dirty, headlights/taillights intact, etc. However there is paperwork on two accidents this car has been in, left front and right rear. There is also a substantial amount of rust in the rear panels. I've checked under the trunk lining and thankfully there's only mild rust. Small rust spots and seams of rust all around the car. So that will definitely need to be addressed.
It's currently with Oldtimer Restoration where they got the engine to turn over -- very happy to see that. Going through the first round of mechanical servicing right now.
Hope to get this on the road for summer 2023 and enjoy it -- rust and all.
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Welcome to the group! The folks here are always ready and willing to help with questions you may have. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the search function. There is a lot of information on the site on all aspects of Pagoda ownership.
I admit to being curious about a couple of things in the engine bay photo. Did your uncle like blue? The top of the power steering reservoir, the battery hold down, the brake booster and the master cylinder are all painted that color.
What are the two boxes at the bottom of the photo? One by the batter and the other tucked in behind the brake booster.
Be sure to keep your eye on the cover for the distributor. Those tend to go lost and are quite difficult and expensive to find, especially an original one with the metal snaps such as the one on your car.
Again welcome, I think you will enjoy the ride!
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Welcome to the group! The folks here are always ready and willing to help with questions you may have. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the search function. There is a lot of information on the site on all aspects of Pagoda ownership.
I admit to being curious about a couple of things in the engine bay photo. Did your uncle like blue? The top of the power steering reservoir, the battery hold down, the brake booster and the master cylinder are all painted that color.
What are the two boxes at the bottom of the photo? One by the batter and the other tucked in behind the brake booster.
Be sure to keep your eye on the cover for the distributor. Those tend to go lost and are quite difficult and expensive to find, especially an original one with the metal snaps such as the one on your car.
Again welcome, I think you will enjoy the ride!
Thanks for the welcome Jonny B. I'll admit, I didn't think much of the blue in the engine bay but he must have loved blue very much to have painted some of the components!
On the two boxes, the one by the brake booster, I did a bit of internet sleuthing and found out it is a capacitor discharge ignition system. Why he felt this was needed in this 280sl may be a question for another part of the forum. The other box by the battery is a mystery, I'll have to probe a bit when I pick up my car from the shop.
Yes I have read here about how rare it is to find original distributor covers as well the little spacers near the top of the insulation pad. Maybe he did Frankenstein the car after all, but glad to see at least some of the original and rare parts still exist.
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I have seen blue battery holddown frames berore. One of the suppliers sells them painted that color. I don't remember which.
Tom Kizer
Blue booster ?????
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New here. I don't have a 113 but I'm looking at saving one from the body shop I send some work to. Joined to do some research.
I have a manual 67 250se w108 and I'm wondering what parts/if any parts can go into a w113. I'm not keeping the m129 or trans in the w108 (swapping in a m272 or m113) so I think it's drivetrain would serve w113 well.
Pirubluse, Are you still working on acquiring the car from the body shop? Maybe post a new thread under general discussion.
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Hello everyone,
I've longed for a Pagoda ever since seeing them around with some regularity in my hometown of Vero Beach as a kid. I'm happy to say I finally did get one, quite by accident, while at an auction to actually buy a BMW E9 that went RNM. I saw this (effectively) one-owner 230SL sitting over in the corner, and I was certain it would go out of my budget. Well, it's in my carport now, and I can thank low turnout for that!
This is my first foray into Mercedes after having only driven BMWs prior, though I don't think I'm straying too far from my roots with Paul Bracq. Indeed, he designed a much more sporting pagoda-type car that BMW sadly never built. Looking at it really makes me smile, and its dauphinblau/light blue color is really on brand for me. I'm thankful that the first owner (1964-2016, then inherited by son, who kept it sitting until sale) kept almost everything with the car. And what a small world, too, considering he was head of sales at Stewart Warner Alemite. I'm in the mining business, and we buy a lot of products from Alemite today! The car was delivered at the factory where the first owner then toured all over Europe with his wife and the local MBCCA president out of Chicago, who was evidently German and acted as their guide in Germany. The first few thousand miles were put on in Germany, Austria, France, Spain, Italy, and Portugal, before being shipped home to Chicago and driven to Indiana, then later Charlotte I believe when he became head of sales. With 82,000 original miles, a cognac mbtex interior in decent shape, and evident pride of ownership for so long, I think I made a really good buy in this market for Civic money.
I've been reading posts on here for a while, long before having an account, and I am highly inspired by the work Dan Carron, Joe Alexander, and GGR have done on their respective vehicles. With this car, I intend to do a sort of homage to the 230SL Rallye, with everything being reversible of course, but with a heavy performance and cosmetic bent towards the sports/rally cars of the era. In addition, I am hoping to do a few unseen upgrades to the cooling, ignition, and various other things. I'm very excited to join this group, and I am in awe at the depth and breadth of knowledge and sheer talent exhibited here, which leaves me very eager to learn from you all. And I'll need it, for at 27, I suppose I'm amongst the younger Pagoda owners, and this is my first venture into what I'd consider a truly older vehicle.
Jackson
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Hello Jackson! Welcome to the group. I was 33 when I bought my 230SL (22 years ago!).
You'll find members here who strive for maintaining originality and others who modify their cars for their needs. I'm in the originality camp and wonder why you would take an effectively one-owner car with presumably no modifications (such a very rare thing!) and modify it.
There are a lot of members in FL, so you should probably try to organize a little meet & greet with fellow owners at a coffee shop or someplace (with a nice open parking lot!). Looking at other cars and talking with fellow members will be a great way to learn about these cars. Just put a thread in the Events forum. If you have access to the Members list, you could sort by location, find FL members, and directly invite them. Even if only a couple other members attend, that's a great start to making friends and learning and appreciating your SL.
I hope you enjoy many years of motoring happiness with your Pagoda.
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Hello Rodd,
Thank you for welcoming me!
I would certainly share your belief that the car ought to be kept just the same if it was truly, truly, truly original, because as you say, that is a very uncommon thing in just about any kind of car. But it does not have a squared-off exhaust, and the first owner some time in the 90s did indeed cut some holes for speakers in the parcel shelf (though not in the dash! car didn't come with a radio, but he did put a 90s Japanese cd player in there and for some reason screwed the cover plate into the glovebox). But these are such minor, minor things. Those parcel shelf speakers are going to go, and I'll do something about the faceplate (I think he put it there so it would look like the 300?), but I have an Aurora-converted Becker Europa that should be here tomorrow that I am excited to put in the car. And that's my intention here -- looking the part, but functioning better, if possible. Drill no holes, etc.
I think there are two other Pagodas around here, a silver 280 and a tobacco 280. Handsome cars, for sure! I look forward to meeting some other owners some time.
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Hi everybody from Milano Italy.
I just bought a 230 SL.32.000 original miles. Waiting t o get an Italian license plate.
I also own a 280 SE w 111 convertible low grille and a 1988 560 SL .
I am eager to drive my 230 SL and shre with you my feeling
Regards to everybody
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Fabio
- Sounds like a great car! Post some nice pics of it.
- We were having a discussion here about Italian cars, finding history, etc. https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=35879.0
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Hello everyone. New member but not an owner. I have my family member that wants to sell his 1965 230sl. Not run in 20 plus years. So, Ill have some Q's coming.
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Hi. New to the group.
I am 36 and from the uk. I trained as a yacht designer and now lecture Computer Aided Design at university.
My late father in law purchased this car in 2016 as part of his investment collection. My wife and I toured the uk with it on our honeymoon and fell in love with the car. We have owned the car now for about a year and it still puts a smile on our faces every time we get in it.
Here is our 1967 230sl in Tunis Beige (462h) with black interior.
Cheers
Jack
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Welcome to the group Jack. Great colour.
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Hello Everyone,
My name is Brian and I live on Martha’s Vineyard island in Massachusetts. I’m a new member and owner (as of yesterday). 1969 280 ivory/tobacco automatic. It was purchased new by Colonel Oz who meticulously cared for it for 41 years or so. This forum has helped in so many ways and I’m hopeful I can pay it forward some day. Happy New Year!
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Welcome Brian. Glad you have found your way to the International Pagoda Group.
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Bonjour from France!
New member and owner for one year of a '72 280SL.
Thanks for welcoming in this group!
(https://i.ibb.co/Yd582dC/IMG-8839.jpg) (https://ibb.co/M1zpn1v)
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A lovely picture of your car in Paris, Benoit. 280SL yes, but ‘72??
Welcome to the group. Please tell us about your car and do send some more pictures!
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What a great start for me... :-[
I meant 71!
I am on my way to pick up the hardtop after restauration, I will post pictures soon!
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As promissed, a picture from "La traversée de Paris": hundreds of classic cars, buses, tractors, bikes... across Paris yesterday.
I managed to park on Concorde square a get a picture before I was surrounded by a LOT more cars!
(https://i.ibb.co/HzwpXG1/Pagode.jpg) (https://ibb.co/PhXzt13)
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Welcome from France as well
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Idem .... ;)
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Hello from Eastbourne, I an a business owner and lead technician, specialise in servicing cars
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Hi, I’m John from Dallas transplanted many years ago to the nation’s capital to work for another Texan, 41. I’ve long wanted to own a pagoda but with a 1969 Chevy Impala convertible always in my garage (my Dad bought for my Mom in July of ‘69), I didn’t have the space. Fell into my ‘67 230sl when an old friend decided to sell his after 35 years to make room for a 220 SE cabriolet.
I took possession in early Feb and am looking forward to working on it and enjoying it for a long time. It has been well maintained but needs some attention, especially to the AC that doesn’t currently work and adding a Becker radio just purchased to replace the old 80s Panasonic.
I would be interested in any suggestions on rehabbing an ac system as well as any recommendations for quality mechanics in the DC metro area. Thanks in advance and here are a couple of pics. I’ve included the data plate as I’m curious what all the codes mean. I see the color was 335H blue, but other than that, not sure. Look forward to interacting with everyone.
Best,
John
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Welcome to the group, John, and congratulations on your purchase.
Regarding the codes on the paint plate, looking these up in the technical manual will be a good starting exercise for you. Click on “Technical Manual” at the top of the page. Scroll down and find “Data cards and color codes”. Click there and scroll down to find “Option codes”. You will find the code definitions there. The codes on the data plate are only a few of the codes that apply to your car.
If your friend supplied manuals and other paperwork to you with the car you may find a copy of the car’s data card among the papers. The data card will provide you with all the codes. You can read up on the data card in the Technical Manual. If you did not get a copy of this card, similar in looks to an old IBM card, you can obtain a copy from the Classic Center - - - for a fat fee!
I am sure some members in the Washington area will suggest quality mechanics in your area.
For the air conditioning matter. Try the “Search Function”, the button next to Technical Manual at the top of the page. You will find a lot of discussion on the subject. When you get into it in detail, post your questions here on the forum.
Again, welcome to the forum.
PS.
I didn’t get invited to Washington, but I was a great fan of, W.
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Many thanks, Ralph. President Geo H.W. Bush was a great man and I was honored to serve under him. I really appreciate the helpful suggestions! I saw the data card info section but missed the options. I did notice the body and hardtop appear to be coded the same 335H color even as my hardtop is white ( which made me wonder why the hubcaps weren’t also white). And I’ll definitely check out the AC section in the technical section.
Birmingham is a great city and have several lifelong friends from there who were fraternity brothers way back in the day 😀..
Best,
John
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Hi John,
You should soon see your welcoming package in the mail box I posted to you.
As for mechanics in your area go to our "Members" area then once you clicked on it click on Members, click on "View the member list"
The Member list is sortable, so click on "Location" then page down until you see your area (page 46 or near there). You can PM one of the members and find out what mechanic they use. Good luck and once again Welcome!
Dieter
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Hi,
My name is Tony, from Brisbane, Australia.
We own a 1997 Scania K93 bus, which we converted into a motorhome, back in 2020.
A thread, in General Discussion, talks about a Bosch diesel injector pump, but the link doesn't appear to work.
Hopefully, someone can help with regards to an issue that I have with the pump.
Cheers,
Tony
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Hi Tony. We're a very helpful bunch here, so maybe you'll get some information.
Instead of working the issue here in the Welcome thread, please reply to that thread you mentioned. Include specifics about both the pump and engine you're working on.
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Hola: me llamo José Luis, vivo en Salamanca (Spain). Ya estuve en este grupo pero he perdido las claves y he vuelto a darme de alta como miembro. Tengo un 230SL de 1963 de los primeros fabricados. VIN 124.
No se como poner una foto. Ayer he comprado un juego de ruedas con banda blanca 185 80 15 WSW. Me llegarán la semana que viene y me gustaria poner una foto con las ruedas nuevas. Un saludo
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hola luis
Si "agrega archivos adjuntos" en la parte inferior de la ventana en la que escribe, puede agregar imágenes con bastante facilidad. Me encantaría ver más de 124
Hi Luis. If you "add attachment" at the bottom of the window in which you type, you can add pictures easy enough. Would love to see more of 124
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Hola: me llamo José Luis, vivo en Salamanca (Spain). Ya estuve en este grupo pero he perdido las claves y he vuelto a darme de alta como miembro. Tengo un 230SL de 1963 de los primeros fabricados. VIN 124.
No se como poner una foto. Ayer he comprado un juego de ruedas con banda blanca 185 80 15 WSW. Me llegarán la semana que viene y me gustaria poner una foto con las ruedas nuevas. Un saludo
TRANSLATION FOR Luis,
Hello: my name is José Luis, I live in Salamanca (Spain). I was already in this group but I have lost the passwords and I have re-registered as a member. I have an early 1963 230SL. VIN 124. I don't know how to post a photo.
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Hi Louis, use the Google translator and post your message here in English. We love to see a photo of your car, you can do this by using the "Attachment" below. Click on it then select your photo. Welcome to our Group!
Dieter
Hola Louis, usa el traductor de Google y publica tu mensaje aquí en inglés. Nos encanta ver una foto de su automóvil, puede hacerlo utilizando el "Archivo adjunto" a continuación. Haga clic en él y luego seleccione su foto. ¡Bienvenido a nuestro grupo!
Dieter
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Regarding attachments, sometimes when posting I am sent to a "Quick Reply" screen than doesn't include the click-on "Attachments and other options" line under the dialogue box.
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Mike you need to click on Attachments it should work, then select your file. I normally place the file I like to attach on my desktop, this way it is easier to find and attach.
Dieter
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Regarding attachments, sometimes when posting I am sent to a "Quick Reply" screen than doesn't include the click-on "Attachments and other options" line under the dialogue box.
Mike,
I understand your issue, but I'm not sure how you get to this simplified reply screen. Anywhere I click reply, I get the option for attachments.
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Found where to control it. Go into your profile and under Look and Layout, go down to the drop downs at the bottom and select your Quick Reply preference.
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Thanks Rodd, all done! Hopefully this and your other advice helps José Luis in Salamanca as well. We'd all like to see some photos of a very early 230SL!
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Me too! That's an early car. I sent him a PM in both languages (Google translate) with advice on finding Spanish speaking members who could help him get used to the forum.
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Hello Pagoda site, I'm a new member as of today and a new owner of a 1970 280SL as of yesterday. I spent lots of time in the Mustang and Shelby markets and finally bought a classic 450SL last year and now a 280SL. These cars are so nice looking and I'm looking forward to expanding my knowledge on the cars and slowing bringing it back to its starting beauty.
THX
Tim
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Tim,
Welcome to the group! I also had a 450 SL some years back and thoroughly enjoyed. A much different car than the Pagoda but still a great driver.
We all stand ready to assist as needed.
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Thanks Jonny, I certainly will take you up on the help. My Pagoda is not currently running and through some discovery it looks like the previous owner burned up some wires near the alternator. I suspect he reversed the battery cables. Soon as I have a chance to get it on my lift, I will see what I'm up against. I know the knowledge with this group is excellent and thorough. Looking forward to the learning curve.
Take care,
Tim
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Hi Tim,
Welcome to our Group. I see you have not jet upgraded to Full Membership. Believe me the $30- per year will be one of the best investments you ever made. Once you are a Full Member you will have access to our Technical Manual that has been put together by full Members of this Group. To resolve some of your issues our Search function will guide you to discussions by others that faced similar or the same issues.
Welcome again and have fun!
Dieter
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Hello Tim, Let me add a welcome to this board which you will find is a great resource for your SL. I see you live in El Dorado Hills as well. I moved down the hill last year from the Placerville area and as you can see, I have had my SL for quite a long time. If you would like to stop by and see the car, send me a PM.
John
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Hi All,
I’m also a new member and look forward to learning a lot from you all and engaging in discussions. I took over my dad’s 1970 280sl a few months ago after he suddenly passed, so I am getting up to speed in terms of how to best care for it and continue its/his legacy. I don’t have all of the details handy, but it was about a decade ago he bought the car and took on the project to restore it with my grandpa.
I’ll be diving through the site, but any tips on where to start out for the basics would be much appreciated!
Cheers,
Cam
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I’ll be diving through the site, but any tips on where to start out for the basics would be much appreciated!
Cam,
Sorry to hear about your father.
If you can arrange to meet with another local Pagoda owner or two and just talk for a few hours, that's a great start. If you have time, attend Pagoda Fest in Chicago. See the Events forum.
Advice on how to pick up an in-progress restoration, that's difficult. How much do you know about the restoration's progress? How much do you know about restoring cars in general? 1960's Mercedes specifically? Hiring out the work or doing it yourself? Lots of variables, but this is the best place for you. 20 years of forum messages to search through. Experienced owners and specialists willing to help.
Start a thread in the General discussion to get help.
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Hi All,
I finally convinced my dad to let me get my hands on the 1969 280SL that's been under cover in his climate-controlled garage for the last 37 Years. It was last registered and driven in 1986 and has since been buried beneath kayaks and empty boxes. The trunk lid, protected by a car cover and some foam was used to display the plans for the airplane he's been building (an RV-9). The partially assembled wings sit in custom made assembly jigs behind the car, partially obstructing access and making pulling it out a significant logistical challenge.
I have uncovered the car enough to have gathered the VIN (113.044-10-009817), so it's a left-hand drive manual built in April of 1969. Option codes show it as a US model (491), with a left side mirror (503), and was originally delivered with the Becker Grand Prix radio (519), which is missing. It was delivered with Dark Maroon paint on the body and hard-top (460G) with the hard top installed and the soft top folded (6). I am thankful for the detailed info on the data cards and codes on this forum.
I've done some digging around to try and ascertain the condition. There's no obvious rust on the outside of the card, but the chrome has some pitting, and the paint is certainly dirty with some scratches in a number of places. In the trunk wells I see very minor surface rust; I have read is a common location to look along with under the carpeted storage area covers behind the seats. I haven't been able to check running boards or floor pans and haven't really explored under the car yet as it's just too difficult to do in it's current location. It appears that the car has had some major work in the past as both front quarter panels seem to have been replaced (based on not seeing the typical spot welds). Drivers side rear quarter panel also seem to have been replaced and there's some deformation of the wheel well surround as visible inside the trunk. Still has original toolkit, jack, spare tire and all. I have found service records up through my dad's purchase of the car. He only drove it on weekends locally for a few years before parking it for that last time in 1986 so he put very little mileage on the car. but it's not clear to me what the actual mileage is because my dad told me the odometer was broken. The last registration showed something like 75K miles.
I am really enjoying digging through the information on the forum and trying to decide on my next steps. I'll be looking for help and guidance along the way as I have never tried to breathe new life into a car like this, but I am looking forward to learning from all those that have put in the elbow grease and energy to restore a W113.
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Andrew,
Welcome to the Group! It is so awesome that you've joined as a full member and have already benefitted through your research. As you have already discovered, this Group's 20 years of operation has compiled a lot of information in the Forums and Tech Manual and the Search feature works very well.
What is your experience with maintaining, repairing, and/or restoring cars?
I have always found a lot of benefit from meeting with fellow Group members and seeing their cars in person. Use the membership list (sort by state) to find other PA members and see if you can get 2 or 3 others to get together on a weekend or at some car show. https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?action=mlist
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Andrew
Very nice write up. Great that you joined as a full member— the value is tremendous and supports the site.
You may want to join the Chicago pagoda event (pagoda not needed) that takes place end of September. Look under events for “Chicago Pagodafest” These events happen in the USA once every couple of years. Lots of tech talk and you would meet lots and lots of owners with their pagodas in various states.
When I fist got my pagoda, I lived in France and joined the pagoda event in Belgium without my Pagoda - met amazing folks and learned a huge amount.
Keep us up to date on your uncovering
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Andrew,
Welcome to the group! This is the place to be to get your car back up and running.
What I would suggest is the you become very familiar with the search functionality on the site. Just about every question for getting a car on the road has been addressed in some form or another.
Taking a bit of time with the search - easiest to use the "Search" link from the line of items beginning with "Home." This will allow you to easily search the entire forum.
Also start looking through the technical manual - LOTS of information there.
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Hi Rod, I have very little experience with restoring cars, but I am a craftsman of sorts. I am a skilled welder, metal worker, woodworker and have done some upholstery work too. I actually like to work with many different materials. I have worked in the automation industry for many years so I have good electrical, electronic, and mechanical skills, but have never really applied the skills to my cars. I helped a friend years ago with welding up stress cracks in a one-of-a-kind, hand-built, all aluminum Porsche racing car. We actually build a custom cylindrical mount so we could roll the car onto any side so as to be able to weld in a good orientation. Welding aluminum is so touchy we didn't want to be doing it in awkward positions.
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Andrew,
You going to enjoy improving your Pagoda, and we'll all be happy to help you along the way.
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Hello, new member here!
I saw another lovely Pagoda at the Cars & Coffee of LA at Griffith Park this weekend and chatted with the owner of a lovely 230SL.. he gave me a few more notes to add to my "Dream Car Garage" Notes and while I was updating the notes I saw this forum was previously saved. Decided I would sign up and say hi!
Can someone point me to a FAQ of the differences between the 230, 250 & 280. Trying to get more research done now and maybe someday I can be ready to jump when I find a good one in my price range & requirements
Pretty sure its a Manual 230 though...
-Simon
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Hi 2mAn,
A basic Google should serve you well on the basic differences across the models. Full (paying) Members to our site have access to a detailed list of running changes that occurred throughout all the models, but these were mostly compiled from other books that have been published in years past. I'm not sure how much detail your looking for. Some people prefer the 250 and 280 engine for the larger displacement (power) and integrity of additional main bearings on the crankshaft. There was a major cosmetic change in the middle of the 250 run where the 230 cosmetics changed to what would become the 280 cosmetics. The cars all share the same 4 speed automatic transmission, and interesting one where 1st gear isn't really used. Most manuals were 4 speed, but a rare (expensive to fix now!) 5 speed was also available. A variety of differential final drive ratios were available over the years, and sometimes people take differentials from other MB cars of the period to get even something more to their liking. There are a lot of little things to discuss as changes over time. If you KNOW you are DEFINITELY buying a Pagoda, then try get get last minute tickets to our Pagoda Fest in Chicago, it is covered in our Events forum and there should be about 90 members/owners there, many with their cars! https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=31379.0
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Hello, new member here!
I saw another lovely Pagoda at the Cars & Coffee of LA at Griffith Park this weekend and chatted with the owner of a lovely 230SL.. he gave me a few more notes to add to my "Dream Car Garage" Notes and while I was updating the notes I saw this forum was previously saved. Decided I would sign up and say hi!
Can someone point me to a FAQ of the differences between the 230, 250 & 280. Trying to get more research done now and maybe someday I can be ready to jump when I find a good one in my price range & requirements
Pretty sure its a Manual 230 though...
-Simon
There's quite a good article in the June edition of Classic & Sports Car, worth a look, although that has at least one error
https://www.classicandsportscar.com/news/mercedes-benz-pagoda-sl-60-inside-june-2023-issue-classic-sports-car
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That's a good point. As this year is the 60th anniversary of the W113 launch, there have been quite a number of recent magazine (and internet) articles written about the Pagoda. So, more Google work to be done there!
Also, if you go ahead and join as a full member now, you will have access to the Tech Manual which has some good compiled, detailed info on a number of topics. There's some info on buying a car. https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Buying/Start But, you could also start a thread in General Discussion about that as well.
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Hey group, I'm new here....looking for engine rebuild infos
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Can someone point me to a FAQ of the differences between the 230, 250 & 280. Trying to get more research done now and maybe someday I can be ready to jump when I find a good one in my price range & requirements
Simon,
Besides general Google searching, you can search the Forums as well. I found this: https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=8495.0
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Good morning,
I am a French collector of classic vehicles, especially American ones, and more precisely of Lincoln Continental and Chevrolet, 3 of each. I also have a few British and Italian cars and even a American Lafrance fire truck but not yet a german one. I am interested in buying a 280 SL of 1968 which was originally purchased in France and imported into the USA. I need your opinion and advices. It seems to me to be very beautiful and at a reasonable price but what do you think?
https://www.motorcarclassics.com/1969-mercedes-benz-280-sl-c-227.htm
I add that I paid the $30 yesterday to become a full member of the forum but that I do not see where I can post this request.
Thank you all! And sorry for my English if you can’t understand what I write.
Hugues of Saint Perier
Paris, France.
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Welcome Hugues to the group. Your English is excellent. The car looks great and I'm sure you will get good advice from the members.
Hope it all works out.
David
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Welcome Hugues , on first sight it looks like it has incorrect trunk panel gaps ..
mark
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Welcome. Posting this as a new topic in the General Discussion board would have been more appropriate than a reply here, as this could become a long discussion.
I dislike it when a restorer or painter uses black in the engine bay & under hood.
The leather over the instrument cluster is toast.
Since you're a full member, you have access to this:
https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Originality/1967230SL
I know a number of things are different between 230SL and 280SL, but it's still a good place to start your education.
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New member here.
I've been lurking on the forums for few months now and only just made my first post in the technical forums, so best to make an introduction too.
I work as an engine and transmission technician in Estonia. Our company 'Urban's Garage' is known for it's high quality restoration work carried out on 356 and 911 Porsche cars.
Since I started here a few years ago we started doing 6 cylinder Porsche work and now we're doing 6 cylinder Mercedes engine work and restoration.
I started my career in engineering back home in England when I joined the Royal Navy. During that time and for years after I worked in maintenance and modification fighter jets, helicopters and airliners. I think my experience in the aircraft industry prepared me well for working on classic machinery. Quite a few of the Royal Navy's Harriers I worked on were first put together in the 70s!
I'd just like to say that these forums and technical archives are a fantastic source of information and knowledge. It makes my job much easier to have it all so readily available.
Cheers,
Mike
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Welome Mike! And thanks for joining as a paying (=Full) member, helps pay the bills, says the Audit Committee member.
Estonia a country I have not yet had the pleasure to visit.
I take it you don't (yet) own your own Pagoda? Hopefully one day soon...
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Hello all, new member and new Pagoda owner. Have already gained a wealth of great information from the forum and have used it to perform some minor fixes. Most notably was fixing the switch so that my rear lights would engage. It drove me crazy but with the help of some key posts i was able to fix that and adjust the cable on the switch and get those lights working when i shift into reverse!
Attached is a pic of the proud moment. Also a picture of my 1969 euro 280sl. Signal red on parchment leather, a real beauty. This is a fun car i share with my dad in Los Angeles and Im sure Ill have a million more questions soon
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Welcome Artkez!
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Welcome and, the car looks awesome! Ask away, good to see another LA dweller here.
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Artkez, Welcome, and Happy New Year! Your car looks great, and I have to say one doesn't often see a nice intact tire change card in the boot these days. Tell us more about your family Pagoda.
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Thanks for the warm welcome Peter, Mike, and Cees.
My father and I just partnered up on this Pagoda (but I retained 51% ownership haha). A fun project for both of us, but turns out to not be as much of a project as we thought! looks like the second owner in San Diego did a full restoration about 8 years ago, all engine parts are in really great shape and everything was done really accurately and with high quality and it hasn't been driven much since. Paint is in amazing shape, the leather looks awesome, and all important trim pieces are present and in perfect shape. The engine and transmission appear to have been completely redone and all engine parts appear almost brand new.
The car was sold without any docs or invoices for the restored work. The current selling owner lost the docs and was sold for under value because it appears that someone has done a good job in the restoration at least the paint ( I can judge) looks very nice
Most importantly she drives like a dream. Maybe runs a little rich? but definitely has some pep and the transmission shifts so smoothly. A big change from my 1969 250 sedan which I had restored and been driving the past 3 years.
Right off the bat I had concerns about the starter, it made a scary grinding noise at one point, but I have since not been able to replicate the issue, and it now starts right up cold or hot. I mentioned the issue with the tail light, which has since been solved. Couple of other really minor things. Some of the dash dials are a little foggy, there is a window rattle when I close the driver side door, and the light does not work on the automatic shift gate
Another concern is a lack of original keys (I have one for ignition and one for trunk, but not for gas cap or doors so I cant lock the car)
But enough of the problems, this past weekend for the first time I got to really enjoy it, top down on a sunny Sunday drive with my fiance, and I felt like all my dreams had finally come true. It is a wonderful driving experience, and also really turns some heads
I do want to have someone give it a really good mechanical once over before I feel comfortable going on any major rides.
Cees or other local members
Have any good recommendations in Los Angeles that would be wonderful!
Thanks much. Steve
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Most importantly she drives like a dream. Maybe runs a little rich? but definitely has some pep and the transmission shifts so smoothly. A big change from my 1969 250 sedan which I had restored and been driving the past 3 years.
Right off the bat I had concerns about the starter, it made a scary grinding noise at one point, but I have since not been able to replicate the issue, and it now starts right up cold or hot. I mentioned the issue with the taillight, which has since been solved. Couple of other really minor things. Some of the dash dials are a little foggy, there is a window rattle when I close the driver side door, and the light does not work on the automatic shift gate.
Another concern is a lack of original keys (I have one for ignition and one for trunk, but not for gas cap or doors so I can't lock the car)
Steve,
Just start new threads in the corresponding sub-forums and we'll help you get all those little things sorted out. Good to know you have ownership experience with Mercedes-Benz cars of the period! You will enjoy this one, I'm sure.
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Steve,
Welcome to the group.
The grinding/gnashing noise you heard may be due to a worn spot on the flywheel. Over time the engine tends to stop in a spot and that spot gets more wear than the other teeth. When the starter is activated and the flywheel is in that spot the gears will not mesh and you get the scary sound. I get it every now and again, but never have on the next attempt (at least so far!).
We have a pretty active group here in San Diego, and will be holding our informal Pagodas and Beer gathering in April of this year. I will send you an invite with details as we get closer.
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Sorry Steve, no recommendations for a local garage/mechanic. (My Pagoda lives in our other place in France ...)
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Thanks Rodd, I’ll go ahead and post a bunch of my questions in the different sub categories. I’m slowly getting used to the forum i’ll be in touch soon. Thanks, Arthur
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Thank you Jonny. I really appreciate the invite to the San Diego gathering. We would love to attend regarding the starter. I’ve been driving it now for about a week for about 30 minute trips and no problem with the grinding. so I’ll keep my fingers crossed. Thanks, Arthur.
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Cees thank you and no problem I’ll keep looking if you know any other owners in Los Angeles, please let me know. Living in France with a pagoda and driving around the wine country sounds amazing. Once we get the car under control and a little more confident with longer drives, I think going up the coast to the wine country. It would be really a nice drive for California. We’ll talk soon. Thank you Arthur.
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Hello Steve, there's a members list, click on members, just below your log in button
The columns are sortable, so you can find other owners local to you, some may be inactive on the forum, but if you click on their name perhaps send some of them a message, you may get lucky
There's also a list of vendors/suppliers in the technical manual, again you may find someone local to you, as well as suppliers for parts etc
Just noticed, is it Steve or Arthur posting?
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Hello Steve, there's a members list, click on members, just below your log in button
The columns are sortable, so you can find other owners local to you, some may be inactive on the forum, but if you click on their name perhaps send some of them a message, you may get lucky
There's also a list of vendors/suppliers in the technical manual, again you may find someone local to you, as well as suppliers for parts etc
Just noticed, is it Steve or Arthur posting?
Hi Bob
Thank you for the info that sounds really good and a great guide to review
This is ,Arthur posting, although my son, Steve is a partner of mine in our mutual pagoda. We just purchased a few weeks ago. Sorry for the confusion. Ha ha you can probably tell who the older partner is based my lack of competence technological posting.
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Just purchased my wife this Pagoda, really excited to see it in person in two weeks! This forum seems to be a wealth of information, which is what we will need to keep driving this beauty.
https://www.hagerty.com/marketplace/auction/5ubORAzazj3l5jLofhBJIO
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ehabs12 - Welcome to the group!
You are in the right place to learn about the car. I scanned through the photos, looks like a nice unit.
Be prepared, as with any old car, there will be things you will want to fix, adjust, replace, etc. Get to know the car and proceed from there,
This is a group of people that want to help, and love to see another Pagoda in good hands.
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Nice 230SL! welcome to the Group!
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ehabs12, welcome to the group and congratulations on your purchase. Your car is identical to mine. Same colour exterior (Papyrus white by the way) with blue hard top and hub caps, and charcoal carpet with blue MBtex. Also German delivery.
Unless they were changed in the past you should check your rear brakes. They are probably drum and not disc as the add states. Discs were only on the fronts on 230SL's with drum on the rear.
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Thanks! yes I will check the brakes! will also do the basics of oil change, fuel filter, air filter, etc.
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Thank you!
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Just became a new member so please excuse if this post ends up in the wrong spot. Hopefully I can easily find delete button if post ends up where it shouldn't.
Hi Members,
Excited to be a part of the group and possibly participate in some of the upcoming events. My dream event would be to ship the car to Europe and be able attend a w113 meet up then take a drive through the Alps.
Have owned my American silver pagoda around 30 years or more. When I was a kid, an attorney in the community had one. It was dark grey with red interior and a red soft top. Thought that was the most beautiful car on the road and someday I said to myself I will own a Pagoda. Wanted that same color combo but had to settle for silver. My father, in 74 purchased a brand new 450SL. That was enough for me. After driving the R107, I never wanted to drive anything but a MB. One day my eye caught and ad in the Pittsburgh Sunday paper ( I was always searching the car ads for a pagoda)saw an ad for what was a pretty well cared for 1970 Pagoda in the late 1980's. Made and offer and drove it off the MB/RR dealer lot in Sewickley, Pa. Was on cloud 9 and the car brings a smile to my face to this day every time I turn the key and go for a drive.
I am in South Florida for the winter months and have the car here with me this year. Missed hearing about the Palm Beach Concours and would have enjoyed attending the event even if I wouldn't have been able to enter the car. Did entered a MB in that event last year but surprised of no notification of this years Concourse.
The car is scheduled to go to Pierre Hedary's shop in a month or so for a complete examination. It is getting difficult to find shops that have the special knowledge to maintain these cars. Have kept up the maintenance as best as I could with my local MB dealer who has worked on the car since its purchase. After reading through this site I am almost sure no one at the dealer now knows how to properly tune the car. Really looking forward to the return of the car after a visit with the good Dr. Hedary.
Happy Motoring
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Welcome to the group, Starchild. Nice ownership story!
Lantana is nice, I lived in Boca for many years.
Pierre Hedary is an excellent choice, your Pagoda will thank you! :)
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Starched,
Hello and welcome. Just curious, how did you find the Group, and what took you so long?
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Hello all. Happy to be a new member. Hoping to buy my first pagoda within the next year. It will live in Palm Springs California. I would use it during the 5-6 months I am there every winter. I have enjoyed watching the pagoda auctions on Bring a Trailer.
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ehabs, Starchild and RT. Welcome. RT, Pierre is a good choice. say hi for us.
Mike Mizesko
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Welcome Starchild. I'm also down here in South Florida. Had some work down on mine (new top, paint work) in Palm Beach which is how I discovered the concours. Suspect I'll get up there next year.
Great location to own a pagoda. Mine ventured from here in South Florida to Sarasota for the weekend.
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New member from Canada. Bought my new-to-me 1970 280 SL from SL Shop in UK. I had been actively searching for two years - I think I exhausted the internet! But through the process I learned about so many things to look out for. This site helped greatly.
The car has a few things to work out (more than I expected, actually). I am no mechanic - I’ve just loved these cars for many years and am happy to finally be part of the Pagoda family. I loved the stickers and patches you get when you sign up as a member :)
Tom
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Welcome, Tom!
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The car has a few things to work out (more than I expected, actually). I am no mechanic - I’ve just loved these cars for many years and am happy to finally be part of the Pagoda family.
Tom,
Don't be afraid of basic maintenance. You can do a lot with basic tools and a little help from us. It will get you more familiar with the car, which over time will help you communicate better with your mechanic.
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Tom,
Don't be afraid of basic maintenance. You can do a lot with basic tools and a little help from us. It will get you more familiar with the car, which over time will help you communicate better with your mechanic.
Thanks, I appreciate the support! This site is such a great resource
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Just joined the forum. I'm from the UK. Was surprised on Valentine's Day with the most amazing present of a 280SL Pagoda. It's a UK car, with matching numbers and done 77,000 miles. Its got a good history and all the books. Looking forward to asking many questions!
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Someone loves you. Hope your other half knows who it is!
Congrats - there's a couple of us reasonably local if you need anything (Dulwich, Bromley, Orpington off the top of my head)
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Welcome, Katie!
You're the second Katie from the greater London area in our group. The other (Merc_Girl) is in Godalming.
-David
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Thank you! Will definitely need a bit of help I'm sure :)
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Welcome Katie, this is a great club to be a member of even if like me you use it more as a technical resource than a chatbox. The benefits of becoming a full member far outweigh the the £24 ($30) annual fee.
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Hello, My name is Jonathan and I live in Cumberland, Maine. I have a small collection of Porsches and Alfa's and just recently acquired a 250SL California Coupe. I have always been attracted to the W113 design and look forward to driving, learning, and interacting on this forum.
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Jonathan,
Get to know Gernold at SL Tech in Arundel, Maine.
https://www.sltechw113.com/
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Hi Everyone
I'm a fabricator, machinist, coachbuilder in Greece where I work for a shop that restores and maintains classic Euro and American cars; from an original body hot-rod Ford Model A to a 1967 280SL Pagode (which I'm in the process of completely restoring). The car was purchased (sight unseen if I remember correctly) as a "restored car" but upon closer inspection, the entire car has rust and the entire driver side has some minor accident damage that wasn't repaired correctly. This is the first time I've had to dig this deep into a car to repair and/or replace panels.
I've already ordered most of what I need to replace the damaged/rotted panels... about 25 pieces so far, and have fabricated a few pieces that didn't make sense to order. The only part I wasn't able to find was the area inside the dashboard where the airscoop in front of the windscreen is. The left side of that area has rot and holes. I still don't know how I'm going to go about fixing that area, but it's not time for that part yet.
I'm going to post a full thread of the restoration at some point.
Thanks for this resource it's helping me make sense of this all!
-Ted
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Welcome Ted, and will be watching your restoration thread with interest. Sounds like a massive project if even underdash panels are rusted out!
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The only part I wasn't able to find was the area inside the dashboard where the airscoop in front of the windscreen is. The left side of that area has rot and holes. I still don't know how I'm going to go about fixing that area, but it's not time for that part yet.
I'm going to post a full thread of the restoration at some point.
Ted,
Welcome, and yes, post pics sooner than later. Ask for advice before taking action. It is like "measure twice, cut once". There may be things that you think make sense, but other members with experience may have different ways to do it, or different sources for parts, or other advice.
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Greetings,
I am the proud new owner of a 1967 230SL. She is Dark Green over Black Interior with a hardtop and soft top. The car belonged to my brother who was the second owner. He cared for the car since 1995 and now has passed that duty along to me. I have owned several Mercedes Benz autos but nothing special like this car. She is in very good condition with just some minor issues to resolve. I am looking forward to participating in this forum to gain knowledge about this car. First project is to give the radiator a good flush to see if I can get coolant flowing evenly across the radiator. She gets a little warm (+200°) at 60 MPH.
Bill S.
Milton GA
1967 Mercedes 230SL
2006 Porsche Carrera 2 Cabriolet
2012 Porsche Boxster Spyder
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Hi Bill,
I'm a 30+ year 230SL owner, but a newbie here.
Re: Your runn'in hot issue:
A good coolant flush seems like a good start. And a thermostat check too.
Does your car have a fan shroud? (See image below)
When I first brought my 230SL to Florida, she also ran hot, but I discovered that Mercedes offered a fan shroud as an option for hot climates. I added the fan shroud and now it never goes above 180 F even on the hottest days at highway speed. Part was $300-400 if I recall but well worth it to solve the problem. Just my 2 cents. -Vinny
(https://i.imgur.com/JQPoGGq.jpg)
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Thank you Vinny! I really appreciate your advice. My brother had been told "Just get use to it, they are made to drive in cool climates." Sounded fishy to me but what do I know. I will check tomorrow to see if it has a shroud. I see Bud's Benz has a reproduction. Nothing on the M-B Classic parts site. She is not a concur car but a great looking driver so a reproduction is fine.
Thanks again.
This is why I like to join these forums, great people that love cars and share what they know.
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Thanks BUKTLST,
Good Folks at Bud's Benz. They did much of my 230SL restoration.
A quick Google search of 'Mercedes W113 Fan Shroud' will bring up lots of choices for you.
Welcome to the journey! -Vinny
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Welcome! Best to discuss this stuff in an dedicatrd thread in an appropriate sub-forum. I believe 230SL and 280SL radiators have different mounting points for shrouds, so be sure to get the right part.
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Hi everyone - I just became a full member, but I have been using the forum to learn for awhile. I plan to buy a Pagoda sometime in my lifetime and came across a 230SL recently that I need some help on (which led me to do my first post on these forums!).
I would be interested to connect with owners or enthusiasts in the SF Bay Area. Surprisingly, I have not seen many Pagodas on the road here; I guess everyone in tech likes new cars more ;D.
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Hello, welcome, if you click on members, members list, above under your name, you'll see a full list of members, you can sort the columns, or easier to do a page search, i had a quick look and there didn't seem to be many members in the direct area you're looking at, so perhaps widen your search slightly. If you then click on the members name you can send them a message
Good luck
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You'll find a lot outside SF in the Sierras and wine country. Use the contact links available in the membership list to organize a small gathering. You'll be hooked! You've done it right by joining here before buying a car.
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Thanks rwmastel and BobH - I have been checking the membership list and have found a few more members when searching by specific city names near me.
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Hello all - First post on this forum, looks like a great treasure-trove of resources.
I am helping a friend of mine place a value on his 280SL Pagoda, and was wondering if there is an expert or someone that does regular valuations of these cars. I plan on searching the site extensively to learn more about these very special cars, but hoping someone can jump start my search.
I am a decent shade-tree mechanic and have been working on and restoring 80-90's Italian cars, so this platform is brand new to me but cool cars are not!
Thank you in advance for any help you can give me, and I am happy to post as much details on the car as i can.
Thank you!!
Geno
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All, my name is Al and I have a 1970 280SL California Coupe. My experience with car has been bitter sweet. I bought it about 15 years ago from an elderly gentleman who imported it from Germany before retiring sometime in the 80's. He was driving it home and rear ended a car smashing the front, then left it to sit for about 20 years. I took it to a restoration shop who turned out to be dishonest and after getting the car back, we found that a lot of the repairs he claimed and charged for, was actually just cover up with bondo so I ended up having to redo the work.
I had someone I trusted fix the structure and the body is now solid but for the last 8 years. It's sat as a bare shell in primer. I think that I'm ready to get back on it. I did not take the car apart and i'm 100% sure that I did not get all the parts back from the restoration shop that took the car in the first place. I'm going to need a lot of help putting it back together and i hope that you don't get fed up with all the questions I have. The car was originally silver with blue leather.
As this car will never be an original, i'd like to make a couple of changes including the following:
Change the car from a California coupe to a convertible. it's too hot in DFW to not have a soft top
Change the interior color from blue to red
Add a/c
Possibly convert to a manual gearbox
My plan is to bring the car to the house and work on it in the evening. Questions:
1)Where are the places people can get parts from and is there an online parts catalog available?
2) Is it possible to find the original leather for these era of cars. I've owned several Mercedes in the past W109's etc, and the leather kits available look vat dyed and not like original MB leather from the era. Are those kits available?
3) Who rebuilds injection pumps these days?
4) Is there a guide that can tell me what's right as far as paint, undercoating etc. The car is in primer right now but my plan is to get the shell painted in the next couple of weeks
5) If I need to eyeball a car, is there anyone in DFW who would be kind enough to let me?
Thanks in advance
Many thanks in advance
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Al, welcome
You can search this site for converting a California coupe to a soft top version. It’s a very big job if you want a conversion that looks factory- cutting and welding a donor section with a soft top compartment.
There is another way to just add a soft top and not add a factory compartment and that’s supposed to be easier. Do search this and you should find photos and more.
Best of luck
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Hello all - Firt post on this forum, looks like a great treasure-trove of ressource and interrresting people.
I'm a young Pagoda's passionate and I would love to help other with my knowledge. I'm a VDO LS15 specialist for the moment ( I produce some parts to restore the OEM ) it would be a pleasure to show you my work.
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Hello all - Firt post on this forum, looks like a great treasure-trove of ressource and interrresting people.
I'm a young Pagoda's passionate and I would love to help other with my knowledge. I'm a VDO LS15 specialist for the moment ( I produce some parts to restore the OEM ) it would be a pleasure to show you my work.
Thank you. I have a tub from a parts car but I recognize the effort.