It does seem like ebay cars are chronically overrepresented -- and I wonder if there are many small-time dealers representing themselves as individuals. But I have a feeling you'll be OK, once you get past the glitches.

Here's a trick with epoxy. Heat caused by friction can remove it. I've used a tiny buffing wheel on a Dremel to remove the stuff. Obviously, you'd have to be very, very careful not to damage the paint -- but if you've got nothing to lose it'd be worth considering.

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'01 SLK320, '79 450SL & '01 C320 -- What? 3 Mercedes? I am DEFINITELY crazy!!!