I think I've lost my mind...need opinions on w108...

[pj67coll]

Sounds like a doable proposition to me.

- Peter.

[Edward Wyatt]

Originally Posted by 450SLave

Just got finished getting the SL to a good point, now my mechanic is offering up a W108 250SE he has lost interest in. 280SE 6cyl engine w/carbs, newer model transmission, only rust I can see so far is in the trunk (will need to have some metalwork done), dent in one fender, but has replacement) new suspension parts all around, has completely dismantled interior with all parts included to restore (good seats, carpet, wood, etc.)... Car runs but also needs some brake work (no big deal, just overhauled the brakes on the SL)....all included parts needed to finish it up....said to make him an offer....

I've always wanted to do a large car project...this seems like a cool opportunity. My guess is he will want around $3k for the whole thing....thoughts? I'm a newbie to the w108 world, but love the cars.

John

Run away.....fast. Parts are uber expensive, and the 2.8 motor was a pos IMHO.

The motor was bored out too far, and they tend to run hot and blow head gaskets and need valve jobs every 60k miles or so. That's fine if you have a 50k pagoda SL or a W111 coupe or cabrio because they are worth fixing.

The carbs suck too, and not in a good way. A fuel injected model is much more refined, but the mechanical fuel injection rebuild costs are also uber $$$.

[450SLave]

Ok, had the entire afternoon with the car...damn thing was the dirtiest thing I've seen....white paint is oxidized and probably beyond saving...as far as major (meaning besides some normal surface) rust, here is what I have discovered:

1. 1/4 inch hole under brake booster that I can stick along screwdriver through from the front left fender well....tons of tree debris stuck under there and never dried out.

2. Sadly, couldn't get under the passenger side very well when I first saw it, now I see a 12 inch x 1/4 inch long scar of rust on the rear part of the rear right passenger footwell..and it goes through to the carpet. Damn. But, that really is it for any holes in her everything else is good. I have pics of both if anyone is interested.

Throttle still sticks but is better, runs a little rough, shifts ok, windows go down, electrics and fans appear to function.

Starting to be less enthused though...what would be a realistic offer to this guy? $800? $1000? Is this the time where I let it go and get a more solid driver later for $3000? I can't weld so the body work would have to be done outside...

Any additional thoughts are appreciated.

John

[450SLave]

Did the deed. $500. Saved her!

[Skid Row Joe]

Originally Posted by 450SLave

Did the deed. $500. Saved her!

I think they're one of the best-looking and stately motorcars Mercede-Benz has ever produced.

Good luck in your ownership of it!

[vandor]

Great!

Csaba