Going to Look At A 350SL

[rs899]

Like I keep telling myself, I need another car like I need a hole in the head, but my wife isn't particularly happy with her 300D.

So , theres a local 72 350SL for let's say $8K. Owner says the engine has 500 miles on a fresh rebuild. No rust, interior presentable. Light ivory over dark blue. 80K miles on the rest of the chassis and documented. Slushbox.

What should I be looking for? Should I be suspicious that the engine wasn't rebuilt well. The owner said he dumped $14K in engine repairs(!) in the 7 years he had the car.

Rick (recovering dieselholic)

[72350sl]

Why did the engine need to be rebuilt with only 80,000 miles on it?

[Roncallo]

Originally Posted by rs899

Like I keep telling myself, I need another car like I need a hole in the head, but my wife isn't particularly happy with her 300D.

So , theres a local 72 350SL for let's say $8K. Owner says the engine has 500 miles on a fresh rebuild. No rust, interior presentable. Light ivory over dark blue. 80K miles on the rest of the chassis and documented. Slushbox.

What should I be looking for? Should I be suspicious that the engine wasn't rebuilt well. The owner said he dumped $14K in engine repairs(!) in the 7 years he had the car.

Rick (recovering dieselholic)

As far as the engine rebuild. If its an MB creat motor no problem. If it was done by an indy "Do you feel lucky". I would also be concerned why this engine needed rebuilding at 80K miles. Even a domestic engine going at 80K miles is a sign of abuse in my opinion. The iron 117 engine is about the most durable gas engine I know of. They dont wear out in 80K miles.

John Roncallo

[JPMOSE]

You also need to focus on other issues:

First off, I would verify that this is a truly a Southern car and not a transplant from the North (not to say that a Northern car wasn't stored for the winter...which would be fine). Look for corrosion on the chassis, in the well for the soft top, under the mats in the trunk, etc. etc. etc.!

Second, have the car looked over by a professional to assure the suspension, steering box/tie rods/center link/etc., brakes, axle, transmission are all good shape.

Look closely at the soft top for fit, plastic window for cracks and splits at the seams.

Make sure it has the hard top as well.

Check the seats for operation, along with firmness of springs. Look under the seat for signs of deteriorating horsehair on the carpet.

Check the gauges, radio and lighting for proper operation. Also check the A/C and Heater .

There are a lot of SLs for sale.....if this one doesn't pass inspection...move on and find another! Good luck.

[rs899]

Well, I offered this to SWMBO, but there didn't seem to be any burning interest on her part to go see it, so I guess I will let this one go.

Even if this car passed muster visually, I would always wonder what in tarnation that mechanic was doing on that engine. Although the price may be fine for a car with a competantly rebuilt engine, I would always wonder if it was done properly. I would rather have a car with a tired original engine (for less money). I think the junkyards are full of decent 4.5 liter engines going for nothing in W116 sedans that can be swapped if needed.
Rick