450SL Center Console - Loose and Broken Frame

[supercanuck]

I have a 1980 450SL with a couple of center console issues I was hoping I may be able to get some help on. I think whoever had the car before had either messed with or replaced it because a) it is loose and b) whatever type of framework that holds the climate control unit and radio in place is broken.

1) Console is loose: Overall, the console is in tight and alright, but it is not lined up properly and does not sit up flush against the bottom of the dash. Are there any screws that can be tightened to hopefully pull it back and keep it in place?

2) Broken framework: The radio in the car is aftermarket, so I know people have been back there and been messing with stuff. The pieces of plastic (I think) that hold the radio unit and climate control unit in place are broken, so the components don't line up straight. Is there a way to replace that frame, or does anyone have any pictures or specs of what it should look like so I can try to make a new one?

Thanks!

[meltedpanda]

you may have to remove to properly evaluate. That involves removal of both seats, acc controls and radio. Once out you can reinforce cross members and sides ,reinstall with proper alignement. Mine is in that phase right now. It is not a job for the faint of heart. there is a lot of crap in there.
Good luck

[anc4]

i had a 77 450sl and was able to remove the console w/o removing the seats, IMHO it wasn't a difficult job.

[supercanuck]

ANC4,

Can you give me some instructions as to how you were able to remove the console without removing the seats?

Thanks!

[meltedpanda]

I recommend seat removal , but it is not absolutely necessary.
the whole thing does just pull out. Should be two screws that anchor the console about mid point near the floor. there may be more at the firewall. You must remove all of the "stuff" from the center, ashtray (two screws under that I think) remove ACC hardware (two scres above that I think) gently remove center piece and rotate so it will go through opening( some lines may need to be detached. Radio and holder must also be removed, once all that is out it pulls straight back and out. Probably be good to have the soft top open.
Did I leave anything out ANC4?
Good luck

[ScottinSoCal]

Originally Posted by meltedpanda

Did I leave anything out ANC4?
Good luck

Just the part where he has a completely different climate control system than you have and all the connections are different and he can't just push it through. If you think your 72 is bad, wait till you get a load of the rat's nest of wires and vacuum tubes in a car with the ACCII system.

You are going to have grief if you don't remove the seats, but they're easy to take out.

[dc450sl]

I know it s an old thread but I'm facing the same problem I think. The console on my 1975 450 sl does not attached to the dash board (a gap of half an inch). Have you been able to re-attach yours?

Thanks

[supercanuck]

hi DC -

Honestly, I never tried it. The main reason being that I had to move to Illinois and the car is still with my family in Texas so I haven't had a chance to play with it...I'm anxiously awaiting the time that I'll be able to play with it, though!

[nobby]

Originally Posted by dc450sl

I know it s an old thread but I'm facing the same problem I think. The console on my 1975 450 sl does not attached to the dash board (a gap of half an inch). Have you been able to re-attach yours?

Thanks

Chances are, the mounting tabs are busted. They are part of the CC and radio frame that is pretty cheap at MB.

[jdhill]

If your lucky enough to consider $950.00 cheap. They are out there, found mine on Craigslist for $75. Part # 107 680 20 50 + color code #( i.e. 9007 for black.)

[nobby]

Originally Posted by jdhill

If your lucky enough to consider $950.00 cheap. They are out there, found mine on Craigslist for $75. Part # 107 680 20 50 + color code #( i.e. 9007 for black.)

I was talking about the plastic frame behind the console that holds the CC and radio. I paid between $25 and $40.........I can't remember exactly.