I recently went through the process of adding 13-inch trim rings to my 1966 200. I am really happy with the results, but it was a bit more complicated and expensinve than I expected, so I thought I would post this.

Trim rings for the fintails were an option, I believe, on all models. They are widely available on e-Bay for around $100 a set. Poor examples are available for less, and NOS for more. I ended up with two new and two good used rings for $120 with shipping.

The rings are held on by clips. You should definitely find out if they are included with the rigns. You need four per wheel, and they list for $13 from Mercedes (111 401 05 28). They are available for $1.50 to $3.50 used. Each clip has a small rubber buffer (000 987 18 40) that presses into it. Any used clip will certainly need this replaced, available from Mercedes for $1.88 list (16 needed).

Now, the clips are quite stout and getting them into position on the rings takes care. You need to set the clip i
n the outside groove and position a small pry bar and a screwdriver on the inside groove - see picture. Then you press down with the screwdriver, and the clip generally snaps into place. The tricks are to not try to bend the clip with the pry bar, and to keep the screwdriver up tight against the pry bar when you press down.

By the fourth clip, you will be a pro!

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Chuck Taylor
Falls Church VA
'66 200, '66 230SL, '96 SL500. Sold: '81 380SL, '86 300E, '72 250C, '95 C220, 3 '84 280SL's '90 420SEL, '72 280SE, '73 280C, '78 280SE, '70 280SL, '77 450SL, '85 380SL, '87 560SL, '85 380SL, '72 350SL, '96 S500 Coupe

Chuck ,
The car looks beautiful !!

where do you get your 13inch tires? every 13inch tire i see being sold says for trailer rating only

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1962 220S
1966 200 Diesel
1981 300TD Wagon
1984 500SL
1989 560SEC Euro