I have a couple of questions pertaining to a '75 450SL that was recently given to me...

The car appears to run good but is in need of a major tune up (broken spark plug wires etc.)

#1. When I checked the oil (198K miles) there are "white streaks" in the oil. What does that mean?

#2. Any idea where I can find a good "used" convertible top. Although there are no holes in the top, the plastic windows on each side have holes and all three sides are "frosted" to the point there is no visibility through them.

# Where is the $@# oil filter and engine oil drain plug. Either I'm blind or stupid because I just can't find it.

If you have not found the oil plug or the filter, then I assume you looked at the oil only on the dip stick. First, the white streaks are most likly condensation (moisture),not a big deal. Second the oil filter is on the pass. side, underneath up in side a little. The canister has a bolt hex head on the bottom. The oil drain is on the drivers side, bottom of oil pain, allen style bolt.
Cheers

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Stable:
1973 450sl
1978 red diamond ice vette
1975 steel blue convertable vette
2002 steel blue dakota quad.

75450SL said: The car appears to run good but is in need of a major tune up (broken spark plug wires etc.)
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How is it possible for a car to "run good" with broken spark plug wires???????

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1986 560 SEL (159K miles)

Touche' You are correct for a car that had decent upkeep this would not be considered good but in my case I'm thankful that the car actually runs :-)

I've since had the car up on the lift to get a look at the underside and located the oil filter and pan. Was not completely suprised by the rust and floor pan holes but was suprised by some sort of 3 prongd plug hanging down by the transmission. Any idea what this is for?

Thanks for your time and assistance

As for the convertible top. I used to have a 1974 450SL and when I got it similar problems with the windows. What I found out it is best to bite the bullet and just put a new top with windows. You might save a few dollars if you take the old one off and clean the frame off and/or find a replacement in the internet. Also, stick with the OEM type of material.

Add some new wheels if you do not have, and it will look 20 years younger

Kurt

75450SL said: #2. Any idea where I can find a good "used" convertible top. Although there are no holes in the top, the plastic windows on each side have holes and all three sides are "frosted" to the point there is no visibility through them.
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You might check some wrecking yards that specialize in MB parts. These yards are hooked up via internet so they can find parts all over the country. But unless you can find a car that just had a new top installed before the car was wrecked you will be better off just installing a new top complete with the windows. And if you plan on keeping the car go with the good quality German tops.

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1986 560 SEL (159K miles)