Another benefit to the pan that I didn't see mentioned is the noise reduction. I have my first MB and I thought it was there most for noise shielding.

In fact I just remembered where I got that idea. The marketing catalog for my '87 TD calls the belly pan "a system of acoustic encapsulation". I know my uncle always comments on my car's quiteness compared to his '84 diesel.

I have found the pan frustrating when dropping tools and parts down from above. It seems that lately there hasn't been a job I've done that didn't require removing the pan for this reason.

At least with the topsider oil changing isn't one of them.

__________________
-Mike
'87 300TD 304kmi (RIP)
'95 Toyota Camry Wagon 125kmi