Abnormal. But not uncommon. Does that make sense?

Anyway, I think this should be welded without removing the door. Someone with more experience can tell you how it should be done - probably some grinding with a dremel tool along the seam to get down to shiney metal, and then a bead of penetrating weld.

I have a W123 door where the anchor apparently pulled loose and it has been welded back in. You'd never know it except by looking. And I just replaced the door check strap because it was getting cranky. Something I'd better do regularly now because the anchor point may be a bit weaker than stock (although for all I know its stronger with the weld.)

Ken300D

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1982 300D at 351K miles
1984 300SD at 217K miles
1987 300D at 370K miles