Author Topic: 280 SE buying advice  (Read 3741 times)

dirkbalter

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280 SE buying advice
« on: August 21, 2017, 18:37:49 »
Hello,
I was offered and I am looking to possibly buy a 72, 280SE-4.5. I am familiar with the problem areas of our W113 cars. Knowing that some off you are also work or have these types, I am looking for advice.
Are there unique areas (rust) or things to look for?
What are the typical problems?

Any suggestions or help is appreciated.

Dirk   
Dirk
66 230 SL
70 280 SEL
53 CHEVY 3100
18 C300 COUPE
05 HD FLSTNI

Benz Dr.

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Re: 280 SE buying advice
« Reply #1 on: August 21, 2017, 21:43:18 »
Is this an air suspension car or coil springs?  Rust in these cars is similar to 113's but the front fenders come off so that makes repairs easier. Fuel injection is electronic and some parts are very pricey. All of the engine tech stuff is in the BBB we often talk about.

Very nice cars when sorted out but I wouldn't buy a rusty one.
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra

dirkbalter

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Re: 280 SE buying advice
« Reply #2 on: August 21, 2017, 23:26:44 »
Thank you. Its coil spring, W108. I have only seen pictures so far but it is supposed to be a California car and "rust free". 

Thanks
Dirk

 
Dirk
66 230 SL
70 280 SEL
53 CHEVY 3100
18 C300 COUPE
05 HD FLSTNI

wjsvb

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Re: 280 SE buying advice
« Reply #3 on: August 22, 2017, 02:15:41 »
Known areas of rust: front fenders behind top of headlights, rocker panels front to rear, trunk including under the mat and in tire well(s), base of front and rear windshields, bottom edges of doors and rear lid.  In the engine, look for valve noise, esp. timing chain.  Drive: cold start, warm up, fast cruise, stop, shut off, restart, accelerate.  Note oil pressure, temp at speed & idle.  Great car for a DD or weekend cruiser!  Jon
jon

67 250SL early
12 Jeep GC
69 300SEL 6.3 Euro project (gone but not forgotten)
81 280SL Euro 4spd

dpreston Virginia

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Re: 280 SE buying advice
« Reply #4 on: August 22, 2017, 14:26:47 »
Check out this web site. Came in very handy when purchasing my 69 280SE 111.
The valuations are old but other info great.
Good luck.
http://www.silverstarrestorations.com/buyrinfo.htm
190SL 1960 Sold
280SL 1969
280SE 1969 cabriolet
Vette 67
Porsche 912 67

Benz Dr.

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Re: 280 SE buying advice
« Reply #5 on: August 22, 2017, 14:29:46 »
Thank you. Its coil spring, W108. I have only seen pictures so far but it is supposed to be a California car and "rust free". 

Thanks
Dirk

 

You buy the car and the rust is free.........
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra

dirkbalter

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Re: 280 SE buying advice
« Reply #6 on: August 23, 2017, 15:29:46 »
Thank you all for the Help. Will see the car on Thursday. 
Dirk
Dirk
66 230 SL
70 280 SEL
53 CHEVY 3100
18 C300 COUPE
05 HD FLSTNI