newbie to Mercedes

[sb560sl]

hello everyone I am new to mercedes - my mom has just acquired a 1987 560sl convertible I have always appreciated and trusted the help from the Porsche Pelican boards so it seemed only natural to seek help here for the Mercedes.

All that I know so far is that it has about 160,000 miles on it and had been sitting in a garage for about a year without running. Since they have had it they have had the oil changed (they mentioned something about a square filter and springs?) and they have driven it a little.

Does anyone have any thoughts on what I should look at problem or maintenance wise for this? I understand these were very strong automobiles if maintained properly. Also, a square oil filter?

Any help or pointers would be greatly appreciated - Sean

I think I put this in the wrong section before - I hope this is the right one

[Wodnek]

I wouldn't worry about a year, just change the oil and drive it. Could change the brake fluid if you wish. The 380 pictured below sat in a field in oklahoma for 10 years, I bought it, and drove it to wisconsin. Ice cold air, and the cruise even worked, surprised me. I did change all the belts, hoses and fluids, but we are talking 10 years.

[meltedpanda]

basic safety checks, rubber, brakes engine bay vacuum lines , hoses , belts, fluids.
If it were me I'd change all the fluids unless you have a service history, cheap insurance
That is a great year for the 560, they are a beast and a blast to drive

Welcome to the SL world!

[nobby]

Originally Posted by sb560sl

Also, a square oil filter?

Ya....ah...NO.


Basically what ^ those guys have already said.

My rule of thumb:

1) Make it stop

2) Make it go

3) Make it nice

[sb560sl]

thanks everyone

I have been encouraging her to drive it daily until she wants to store it for the winter I still haven't had a chance to see it yet, but I will this weekend. right now part of it will be finding a trustworthy mechanic that is willing to work on it is going to be the trick. Not many in our area - so it seems.

thanks for the info

- square filter with springs is what I was told - sounded strange to me too - I'll have a look soon

Sean

[Tom McMenamin]

I posted a list of things to do when you get a 560SL some years ago. It is still in the archives. If I do say irt is pretty thorough! Good Luck