Another flawless Benz ride - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

MikeTangas · #1 05-12-2003, 01:39 AM

Just got back from Las Vegas. Took the 560SEL and enjoyed the ride. Covered 728 miles without so much as a hiccup and averaged 18 MPG (down a little from the almost 20 I had last Vegas trip, but I cruised at 90 the whole way there).

Lit out early on Friday and missed most of the traffic, which allowed for setting the cruise to 90. The Baker grade didn't even cause the temp to rise at all, even though I had the AC running all the way. The front end work really paid off, the car handles great and a stiff crosswind doesn't effect it at like like it used to. Prior to the work, a stiff cross wind would really make the car wander. Not any more.

Today when we were leaving, I decided I didn't want to be on the I-15 with all the hungovers and still drunks. So I headed south on old US93. Took the wife and kids across the Hoover Dam. I hadn't been there in years and they are once again allowing auto traffic (no buses or large trucks) to cross. You do have to go through a security checkpoint though. Turned 182,000 miles on the dam, damn. That side trip added about 150 miles to the drive, but it was worth it.

Best part is that we came home with a little over $600 more than we left with. Mother's Day slots were good to the wife.

BenzOnline · #2 05-12-2003, 12:29 PM

I took my 126 for a short ride into the burbs with some friends on the weekend one nite and it operated flawlessly also but going up hills all the time really drinks the gas but otherwise its ok.

The 3.8 sucks on hills

DieselHead · #3 05-13-2003, 01:17 AM

How is that 560SEL for fuel mileage around town? I've always wanted one of those (mostly for the reclining rear seats) and am really tempted to dip into my savings to get one. Thanks.

Alex

MikeTangas · #4 05-13-2003, 03:49 AM

I average 12.5-13 mpg around town, 15-16 in mixed driving and can break 20 on the highway if I keep it at ~82 MPH.

#5 05-13-2003, 12:12 PM

Mike, have you posted the details of the front end work you did to eliminate the wandering in high cross winds?

I need to do work to my '91 560SEL which is squirrelly in cross winds.

#6 05-13-2003, 08:24 PM

I found your post on work you did on front end of SEL. Searched "wandering". Thanks.

joegolden · #7 05-13-2003, 10:00 PM

Did you go on a dam tour? I hear it is an awesome dam tour. The dam bathrooms are nice too!

I watch to many Vacation movies.

MikeTangas · #8 05-13-2003, 10:56 PM

Ted,

That 18 mpg was an average, reality was right at 17.2 mpg at 90, and a tick over 19 mpg coming home at 85.

As far as front end work, basically replaced everything but the lower control arm bushings. Made a huge difference. I guess I could classify this as a hiccup after all, with the front end work, there is no noise at all from the front suspension. In that quiet, I have started hearing little thumps from the rear, believe the source it shock bushings.

Joe,

Didn't do any dam tour this trip, but plan on taking the dam tour next trip. Those dam bathrooms sure did look pretty with those giant brass doors and casings though. Biggest laugh was when the seven year old read the sign in front of the museum building and asked "Mommy, what's a dam museum"? Instant flashbacks to "Las Vegas Vacation", snicker, snort.