Author Topic: 15" wheels  (Read 4313 times)

Mr Prem

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15" wheels
« on: December 29, 2020, 21:16:51 »
Hi All
I have a 1971 280SL which has 14" steel wheels. The wheel covers are approximately 15 1/4" (39cm).

I would like to go to 15" wheels. Would my existing wheel covers work with the 15" wheels?

Thanks

Prem

1971 280SL

hauser

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #1 on: December 29, 2020, 23:11:55 »
15" wheels require a larger cover with an overall diameter of 16 1/2".  The cheaper way is to go with 15" bundt wheels.

Peter h

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« Last Edit: December 30, 2020, 06:41:24 by Peter h »
08.68 280sl automatic white 717 G  blue MB Tex
09.68 280sl  4-speed, now 5-speed Getrag 180 G dark green MB Tex

Peter h

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08.68 280sl automatic white 717 G  blue MB Tex
09.68 280sl  4-speed, now 5-speed Getrag 180 G dark green MB Tex

Mr Prem

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #4 on: December 30, 2020, 10:13:20 »
Thank you hauser and Peter h. That's very helpful. As you say the rims are not expensive but I was getting a bit confused in the sizing of the hubcaps that are required which are expensive. I prefer the look of the painted wheel covers above the bundt wheels so will pursue accordingly. Is the silver car your Peter? Its absolutely beautiful!
1971 280SL

Peter h

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #5 on: December 30, 2020, 10:59:59 »
Yes. Both have 15 inch rims and mechatronic springs.
The silver with 5 seed getrag.
Peter
08.68 280sl automatic white 717 G  blue MB Tex
09.68 280sl  4-speed, now 5-speed Getrag 180 G dark green MB Tex

Mr Prem

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #6 on: December 30, 2020, 11:21:03 »
Lovely Peter. What is the small box in the centre console with the wires coming out of it?

Here is a pic of mine. I've had it 5 years now. Requires small bits and pieces to get it how I want it. Nothing major.
1971 280SL

Peter h

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #7 on: December 30, 2020, 11:36:32 »
There is a USB connection and a 3.5 jack plug from the radio.
The GPS comes to the holder behind it.
Peter

Your pagoda is also very nice.
Papyrus white with blue?
« Last Edit: December 30, 2020, 11:50:26 by Peter h »
08.68 280sl automatic white 717 G  blue MB Tex
09.68 280sl  4-speed, now 5-speed Getrag 180 G dark green MB Tex

Mr Prem

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #8 on: December 30, 2020, 13:07:02 »
Wow what a great idea. I've been looking at adding a couple of modern touches. Gives me something to think about. Thanks
1971 280SL

Mr Prem

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #9 on: December 30, 2020, 16:00:00 »
Mine is white with black with red MB tex

1971 280SL

scoot

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #10 on: December 30, 2020, 16:15:58 »
The hubcaps are the problem. Mercedes still has to buy them new. For around 1200 euros.
Good used ones start at 800 euros, but they are rare.
Interesting   I have a set for an early 600 that I've been saving (until I buy a 600???).  The early ones should be worth more than the later ones - much less common...
Scott Allen
'67 250 SL (early)
Altadena, California

hauser

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #11 on: December 31, 2020, 03:40:13 »
Here is the 15" hubcap..


RAY

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #12 on: December 31, 2020, 10:48:37 »
Does anybody know if their was ever a 16" alloy ' steely ' made ?

Ray

Peter h

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #13 on: December 31, 2020, 11:01:38 »
I don't know any mercedes 16 inch steel rims from this time.
I think there were no hubcaps for it.
Peter
08.68 280sl automatic white 717 G  blue MB Tex
09.68 280sl  4-speed, now 5-speed Getrag 180 G dark green MB Tex

RAY

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #14 on: December 31, 2020, 13:55:01 »
Sorry peter, that was a typo.
I did mean 15" alloy ' steely '

dakman29

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #15 on: December 31, 2020, 20:56:07 »
A bit off topic but does anyone have the correct bolt pattern for stock wheels?  Thanks

scoot

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #16 on: January 01, 2021, 00:05:22 »
A bit off topic but does anyone have the correct bolt pattern for stock wheels?  Thanks
5 x 112
Scott Allen
'67 250 SL (early)
Altadena, California

scoot

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #17 on: January 01, 2021, 00:05:56 »
Sorry peter, that was a typo.
I did mean 15" alloy ' steely '
There are no 15" alloy steelies...   Sorry.
Scott Allen
'67 250 SL (early)
Altadena, California

JamesL

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #18 on: January 01, 2021, 09:30:30 »
I’ve looked at the 15 ally/steely question. Scoot is right (achim agrees)... no such beast that takes the (very pricey 600/123limo) hubcaps.

There was an SLK wheel that a hubcap would fit, but not brilliantly, and given the price of the caps/ risk, I’d not want one flying off the wheel at speed. The wheels would need rear spacers too to clear the exhaust run
« Last Edit: January 01, 2021, 09:42:57 by JamesL »
James L
Oct69 RHD 280 in DB906 with cognac leather

RAY

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #19 on: January 01, 2021, 10:27:32 »
Thanks Guys.

Mr Prem

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #20 on: April 28, 2022, 20:22:54 »
So I have finally managed to get hold of a set of 15" wheels off a W126. Im still trying to source some wheel covers. Would anyone know the part number for the wheel covers that fit the 15" wheel?

Thanks.
1971 280SL

Panorama

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #21 on: December 04, 2023, 17:22:18 »
I have a set of 4 15” hubs.

VikDasor

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #22 on: December 04, 2023, 21:15:59 »
Hi Peter,

Could you please elaborate on the mechatronic springs. Are they a straight forward swap and do they lower the stance of the car too and what mm of shims are used to balance the car correctly
Vik Dasor
1966 W113 230SL
1988 R107 300SL
1999 R129 320SL
Porsche 911 997 C4S

JamesL

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Re: 15" wheels
« Reply #23 on: December 04, 2023, 21:55:48 »
Do a search for Mechatronik and you’ll find some info, this being the most recent
https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=36154.msg267238#msg267238
James L
Oct69 RHD 280 in DB906 with cognac leather