PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - Buying 1990 300SL

G-Benz · #2 06-28-2005, 10:29 AM

Sounds like you pretty much covered everything.

The 300SL is equipped with the M104 engine (same as offered in the 92-95 W124-series). That said, with the low mileage, you are years away from the age-old problems of the head gasket and timing cover leaks.

Not sure why MB went with the two-tone body color, as many of us R129 owners went the same route with painting the cladding to match. I have this on my "to-do" list down the road.

Soft top operation is generally reliable despite its complexity. The most commonly mentioned failures are the locking mechanism cylinders along the top of the windshield. The seals eventually leak prior to total failure, and you will notice hydraulic fluid weeping from the top of the windshield pillars. Fortunately, the parts aren't too expensive and the job can be performed in your garage in around an hour.

The fluid reservoir is located beneath the spare. Check the level, for it may be a good idea to replenish with fresh fluid given the car's age. Sluggish top operation dramatically improves with this simple technique.

I'm pretty happy with mine. So far, in my 5 years of ownership I've replaced a few dash bulbs, both locking cylinders, the console latch, the battery, a fuel hose clamp, and the windshield washer pump. All of this performed in my garage at a total cost for parts around $600!

Oh yeah, got tires last year, which I didn't include in the above cost.

Our hardtop has been on the car probably twice. It pretty much spends its life suspended above the car.