Hello, new here and new '71 280SL owner. Does anyone know how and if just the rubber part of a rear bumper guard can be replaced on a 280SL, I have a spare piece of rubber, but after taking off the guard to replace, it sure looks as though the rubber may not be replaceable. Does the whole rubber piece have to slide through, which seems could be tricky, lots of resistance. Any help or advice appreciated thanks, seamus

Are you talking about the center strip running the length/width of the bumper or just the little upright "bump" guards?

I replaced the one on a 250C (W114) and I believe I did have to run it the length of the bumper. Lot's of Goop handcleaner, patience, liquid beverages and a well stocked supply of curse words if I remember right. A heat gun helps to get it to go that last little bit on the ends where it slips into the pinching finger.

Mike, I'm talking about the smaller vertical bumper guards, there are two on front and two on back. thanks, seamus

Same procedure. Less cursing and beverages but more use of the heat gun.

If it is held in by the "pinch" finger then you need to slightly force the "finger" away from the bumper/guard and bend them back after installing the rubber to create the bind. I used a body hammer but a good sized punch or dull chisel will do the same.

May I suggest you check with