280SE Questions - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#1 03-15-2004, 03:50 PM

I've read several threads about the replacement of the four center console climate-control rings in the dash. Seems like there's really only two options: original or Duralever.

I pulled the grill above the controls and found that an impossible work space. Seems only one who knew exactly what they were doing could pull the levers from that space. I've gathered, however, that the whole dasj must be pulled.

Duralevers are cheaper and I suppose cover the cool colored plastic but they are easier to install.

I've only found one source for the Durvalevers. Anyone have anyother suggestions? Any expereinces or instructions?

Also, any words of caution with replacement of a driver-door window regulator?

j9fd3s · #2 03-15-2004, 04:05 PM

you somehow contort yourself and pull the whole lever thing out as an assembly, then on the bench its easy. its not easy to get at the 2 nuts you need to get to to pull the assembly out, but its possible. its part of their scheme to make a very simple thing seem feindishly complex, or just wait until you decide to pull the instrument cluster.....

mike

JoeyTheB · #3 03-15-2004, 05:01 PM

Long story short - I have a full set of USED duralevers,
and I'll let you have 'em cheap !

I had a problem with mine where I had to remove the whole assy anyway - so I went with original OEM.

Yes, the OEM are better in my opinion, but I knew what I was doing, and it still took me 3 hours and about 4 days before all the scars on my hands healed up.

Want em ?

$25 and they are yours

JoeyTheB · #4 03-15-2004, 05:05 PM

OEM is the way to go - expect to drop $125.
Probably want a window bushing kit ($4) while you are in there.

If you search around, there was mention of a $99 window regulator from germanstar.net. Turns out it's a 3rd party
part and they don't last as well as OEM.

I think FastLane has them.

Tomguy · #5 03-15-2004, 11:56 PM

TAKE THE RADIO AND GLOVEBOX OUT.

It makes it MUCH easier to remove the cables and those 2 nuts to pull the assembly!

Apodman · #6 03-16-2004, 02:52 PM

I replaced mine(W123 '78 280E) with a used regulator from www.silverstarrecycling.com for half the price than from other traditional sources. Silver Star pulls parts from their junk yard.

My regulator came quickly, was in terrrific shape and has worked flawlessly since last June. It was helpful to have a small manual from "Mercedes Source" to guide me through replacement.

Good Luck.