Thanks, guys. Right after I wrote my post about sealants, I read up on them and realised that it was not the solution.
I am just going to bite the bullet and have the job done right.

I'm just frustrated because after spending mega bucks last year, including a/c work (compressor, etc.,), adressing every known 500E "issue", and then some, I thought I was done with repairs for awhile.

It's true - the purchase price of an old MB is just the first repair bill.

Tom
92 500E, 170,000miles