Would anyone want to trade with me?

[nate300d]

Originally Posted by TylerH860

Sorry, I have to disagree. I've seen super clean 380SLs (considered the worst R107) bring $30,000+ at classic car auctions. Stupid, stupid money. Many of the euro models like mine are being bought up and sent back oversees.

My car has much more sentimental value to me, but I do think the 280SL and 500SL of the R107 will be very sought after.

500SL pictures by tylerh860 - Photobucket

What is it about the 380SL that is so bad?

[JPMOSE]

Nate,

The only problem with 380SLs, in my opinion, is the single row timing chain used on 1981 - 1983 USA versions. The chain stretches prematurely and can jump gear teeth, causing major engine damage. However, many have been retrofitted to a double row chain. If not the chain needs to be changed a lot more frequently.

The only other complaint may be less power...but to some folks, this doesn't matter. The 1981 has the earlier automatic climate control system (which is more problematic then the system used on subseqent years).

Others may pipe in with more issues, but this is the gist of it.

[nate300d]

Originally Posted by JPMOSE

Nate,

The only problem with 380SLs, in my opinion, is the single row timing chain used on 1981 - 1983 USA versions. The chain stretches prematurely and can jump gear teeth, causing major engine damage. However, many have been retrofitted to a double row chain. If not the chain needs to be changed a lot more frequently.

The only other complaint may be less power...but to some folks, this doesn't matter. The 1981 has the earlier automatic climate control system (which is more problematic then the system used on subseqent years).

Others may pipe in with more issues, but this is the gist of it.

I have heard of the timing chain issue. I did not know what years and other models that had this timing chain issue.

[JPMOSE]

It only applies to 1981-83 (and I believe the early part of 1984) USA models only (and only 380SLs). The serial number of the last single row can be obtained on the EPC or a search on one of these sites....it has been a common R107 discussion for many years.

[meltedpanda]

I'm with JP

[rowdie]

Two big failures by MB. The single row chain and gears on the referenced 380SLs. All M116 and M117 engines are subject to failing even with the double row. Even the earliest models with the metal backed guides. The tensioner gets weak, cam gears wear and chain stretches so while it is is less likely, they can fail. Later models have the plastic guides that break.

Second major MB FU is the front subframe. MB still covers replacing or re-enforcing it on the U.S. 450 models but in most cases refuse to do it on Euro models and U.S. models other than the 450. All 107s from #1 off the line till 9-85 had the same front subframe.

I know several people with 380SLs. They like them. Good fuel mileage and adequate power.

[meltedpanda]

lol
my subframe is brand new, complements of MB USA , 35 years after the fact!

[rowdie]

Originally Posted by meltedpanda

lol
my subframe is brand new, complements of MB USA , 35 years after the fact!

So you have the '86 up subframe? Should put that in the sale ad. That is a major plus.

[JimFreeh]

If your subframe isn't cracked yet, the reinforcing kit is available for around $100.

Still a lot of work, though. Need to drop the lower control arm, but need to remove spring before removing the inner bushing bolts.

Which means dropping the subframe, because the only way to get the spring compressor in is from the top of the subframe and there is no room when the subframe is installed.

I used a W114 subframe from one of my parts cars, welded on the kit, and I'm hoping I'm finished for a long time......

Jim

[meltedpanda]

Originally Posted by rowdie

So you have the '86 up subframe? Should put that in the sale ad. That is a major plus.

yes complete with the MB paper stickers still on it !

[RadioTek]

Originally Posted by rowdie

Two big failures by MB. The single row chain and gears on the referenced 380SLs. All M116 and M117 engines are subject to failing even with the double row. Even the earliest models with the metal backed guides. The tensioner gets weak, cam gears wear and chain stretches so while it is is less likely, they can fail. Later models have the plastic guides that break.

Second major MB FU is the front subframe. MB still covers replacing or re-enforcing it on the U.S. 450 models but in most cases refuse to do it on Euro models and U.S. models other than the 450. All 107s from #1 off the line till 9-85 had the same front subframe.

I know several people with 380SLs. They like them. Good fuel mileage and adequate power.

You're forgetting the exhaust manifold + catalytic converter combination on the '75 & '76 engines. That has to go down as a major FU in anybody's book. I sometimes wonder if I could place a small rotisserie in the space where they eventually put the battery, and have a hot meal during a road trip. I think there's enough room for a good-sized chicken in there.

Possibly a small roasting pan and a chunk of meat. Just remember to turn it at fuel stops.

It's Friday, the sense of humor starts getting a bit twisted.
Scott

[Grenadiers]

I don't know nuttin' about 560s! However, I purchased a 1985 Porsche 911 exactly one year ago on the first of April. Paid much less than the 19-25K that some pay, because it was in an accident at some point. I knew that though, up front, since I bought it thru a Porsche mechanic in Tucson, AZ he spilled his guts. He was selling it for a customer.

The car was repainted, knew that, 155,00 miles, knew that, even though a newer speedo was installed. The accident required a new front clip to be welded in; it has it's own VIN! How's that! But I knew it. And the mechanic and I poured over the car looking for cracks, bad welds, etc., didn't find any. So, I forked over the buckaroonies and have been a happy camper since. In fact, I'm heading to Phoenix tomorrow morning to flog it on the race track with AZ PCA club. Then driving 100 miles home.

Moral of the story? If you have information regarding the car, owner is honest about it, ask a chit-load of questions, lay on the ground, etc. the extra 2 grand might well be worth it. I also have a 300SDL, got the 450SL with that purchase. The latter car is nice with a weak engine, but the 300 has a newer '20' engine in it. I knew all of that as well when we bought those cars. My wife love the SDL, mileage is great, plenty of giddy-up for such a big car. Good luck!

[rowdie]

Originally Posted by RadioTek

You're forgetting the exhaust manifold + catalytic converter combination on the '75 & '76 engines. That has to go down as a major FU in anybody's book. I sometimes wonder if I could place a small rotisserie in the space where they eventually put the battery, and have a hot meal during a road trip. I think there's enough room for a good-sized chicken in there.

Possibly a small roasting pan and a chunk of meat. Just remember to turn it at fuel stops.

It's Friday, the sense of humor starts getting a bit twisted.
Scott

Yes I forgot that one.......
I am thinking more of a smoker where you can do a brisket or rack of ribs.

[Abadjay]

Well I don't mean to blog this, but I thought I'd update on the story of my first 560SL encounter.

As you know the owner of the teal 560SL demanded $2,000 to complete my 300SDL trade with him. I was disappointed to have shown him the car and even travelling a great distance just so he can get a second opinion. I found it rather odd that he asked me for more money, but that's already been explained here... Once I told him about the timing chain possibility of failure, he never got back to me until I emailed him.

He claimed in his email that he "wanted to get excited about a diesel" before actually trading it. He said he used to own a 450SL in a faded yellow color and said he missed it so much, he got a 560SL to rekindle with the SL. He said that I shouldn't be so hasty to get rid of my 300SDL because I might regret it... I like my 300SDL and I don't want to sell it, I would rather trade it. The way I see it, I'm not very sentimental on things, but I cared for this car like none other than I've had. So I was thinking he was kinda full of it lol... but he's right on some level.

Then he said that he would trade in 2 seconds if my SDL were teal colored with palamino interior... and my face was like .... I'm pretty sure they never made a W126 chassis with an original teal paint job, let alone an SDL, but I would like to be proven wrong on this one...

Anyway, it just sucks that I was turned down because of the color of my car... I couldn't sleep the day before I thought I would get it for a straight trade and it all just disintegrated after he wanted $2,000... and even further when he said he wouldn't trade anymore...

But oh well, the quest for another trader continues... If you guys know anyone who's willing to trade even for a bit of cash, let me know!

[alabbasi]

Yeah, they made a W126 in that color. I repainted one recently.