Drain holes in trunk sides

[Marrs]

I have a small drain hole (no tubes) located in the lower compartment areas on each side of the trunk. They each have a rubber grommet but that's it, basically wide open until I put a rubber plug in there as a temp seal. Were these put in by the PO because of the trunk mount A/C unit, for condensation concerns, I can't imagine they are factory since there's really no reason or way for water to get in there. If they aren't needed I will seal them up for good.

[Tomguy]

They're factory. Water can get in from a leaky trunk or rear window seal, or in bad driving rain. I'd leave them as is if you have no rust down there.

[Marrs]

Originally Posted by Tomguy

They're factory. Water can get in from a leaky trunk or rear window seal, or in bad driving rain. I'd leave them as is if you have no rust down there.

Thanks, it seemed counter-intuitive to me, I assumed the tires would toss water up inside. No rust, I sprayed some oil to help protect the floor area and will leave them alone.

[mercmad6.3]

Swap the drain bungs with later items from W126's. They have a little tube peice which will allow moisture to exit but prevent water,dirt etc getting in.

[meltedpanda]

yes sounds like your tubes may be toast they actually should have a bit of a flattened end at the bottom, as Tom says water can get out , but not in

[Marrs]

Went to my dealer today and got plugs from a W202, I think used for the same area, but with no openings or outlet for water. They fit the W111 openings perfectly so I will check and be sure water isn't getting in another way. My trunk seal is brand new, real window seal is poor but will be replaced within the next year when I hopefully get a new paint job on the car. Thanks for the advice.

[JPMOSE]

You can still get the original ones from the dealer...I either replaced or bought spares for every piece of rubber on my 280SE 3.5 (in case they ever go NLA).