If you are reading this, it is probably because you are having fuel supply problems with your SL. A very likely cause is that the strainer in the bottom of the tank is clogged. If this is the case, you should pull the tank and have it cleaned and possibly coated, since just cleaning the strainer will not solve the problem - it will only buy some time.

I just finished this job on a 380SL and wanted to offer some tips while the experience is still fresh in my mind.

The basic tasks in removing the tank for cleaning described in several posts and in the 107 manuals, but I would add the following:

- Order a new o-ring for the tank strainer so you will have it when you need it. The dealer may not have it in stock.

- Remove the hard top so you can access the fuel gauge sender and the two screws that hold the vapor tank

- If the battery is in the trunk, remove it and the case. This will make removal of the trunk bulkhead much easier

- Be sure to detach the return line on the left side of the tank before removing.

- There is a square-ish large rubber pad around the fuel outlet. If you remove it to unscrew the strainer or elect to replace it, be sure to install it with the thin side facing forward.

- Spray the rubber pad with silicon before installing the tank. This will allow it to slide into position more easily

- You can save some money if you replace the main tank outlet hose by cutting the swaging off the tank fitting with a hacksaw. Then you can use a hose clamp to attach the new hose to the fitting.

__________________
Chuck Taylor
Falls Church VA
'66 200, '66 230SL, '96 SL500. Sold: '81 380SL, '86 300E, '72 250C, '95 C220, 3 '84 280SL's '90 420SEL, '72 280SE, '73 280C, '78 280SE, '70 280SL, '77 450SL, '85 380SL, '87 560SL, '85 380SL, '72 350SL, '96 S500 Coupe