New member with a few questions... shocked?

[wallster]

Hey everyone! I've been lurking here for a few weeks and i would like to extend a thank-you to all you experts.
I'm a mechanical guy (i rebuild motorcycles as a sideline and have done a few cars as well) so i'm not afraid of asking some questions and attempting some repairs and maintenance requirements.
I've loved these (older SL's) cars since I first saw one in person (circa 1981) and i believe they are timeless vehicles. I sold my latest motorcycle (2000 HD Road King) and my '88 Corvette conv. and now have the opportunity to purchase a 1980 450sl. The car was a Fla. car (sold through a wholesaler friend with documentation) with 80k miles. Both tops, blah blah blah, you get the picture. The purchase price will be about $9300.
I'm reluctant because of the cost of parts but I plan on keeping this as a "fun" car that will be covered in my garage most of the time.
What common problems should i expect for this beautiful machine? I understand the front subframe mounts are a common problem on these cars along with just normal bushing wear due to it's age. Any other major stuff to peek at as well?
Thanks again.
Wally R.

[Alkraut]

You may want to look around at the other 107's. They all have pros and cons. The newer models (560SL) retain the classic look, have very powerful motors, modern sytems (ABS, airbag) and have less climate control issues. They will require less work than an older model. They cost more ($12K and up), and use a bit more gas. The rubber components on all are key. Older models will need more rubber parts. The front subframe bushings should be replaced on all, as it restores the great ride and handling. Parts are available for most, on the internet and Ebay, prices are not bad. I have a '88 560SL, and I have been able to find parts and do all the work. These cars were designed to be worked on (in order to last a lifetime) and the "special" tools are few. They are repairable, and maintainable, and there is lots of help on the forums. There are few cars like these. Well-built and fun to drive.

[wallster]

Thanks Alkraut, I was considering a 560 instead (but this car just came along) because of the upgrades. I'm outside of Buffalo NY, your location says upstate NY, where abouts?

[MattBelliveau]

Yeah where? I used to live in Rochester.

[wallster]

West Seneca. Right near Orchard Park... Ralph Wilson Stadium area.

[Alkraut]

I'm in the Oneonta Ny area.

[JFawcett]

The 560s are pretty bullet proof. They do require some additional things that are not standard on most cars. They were over-engineered (which is why they are still around).
1. Timing chain tensioner/guides/cam oilers....MUST be replaced/checked at 90 - 100,000. If not, MAJOR engine problems.
2. As mentioned in prior posting, the rubber components need to be checked/replaced - main rear engine seal, etc. You can live with a leaky seal, but just have to watch fluid levels. The other thing that will drive you to drink is the vacuum system on these cars controls everything.....and after 20+ years those lines, or rather the connectors on those lines, get VERY brittle and tend to leak, which causes everything from broken door locks to rough idle to stalls.
3. The 560s have a difficult HVAC system......but it is better than the 450 and 380 systems.....they got rid of the vacuum servo and a few other things in favor of an electronic control - which has it's own set of problems. Also, the vacuum system controls the air distribution via these pod things that just wear out.

Overall, parts are available and usually pretty straighforward. Diagnosis can be hard due to complexity of systems.