Can we save these MB bodies from the crusher?
 

Can we figure out a plan to ship these unrusted bodies back east to replace your rusty ones? Just switch engines, etc?

I grew up in Benton Harbor, MI and lived in East Lansing for many years till I moved to San Jose.
This is why I have so much sympathy for folks who live in the rust belt, and why I anguish over all of these MB's and other cars whose pristine bodies are routinely crushed into scrap at the salvage yards here in San Jose, and of course all the other dry places i.e. Texas, Ariz, etc.

A stroll through my local PNP will make you weep. There are usually at least 2-4 Fiat 124 sypders with no rust ( and they are made with russian steel, the worst in the world for rust). The Peugeots are now all gone though, except the newer fwd models.
Volvos? ya gotta be kidding! A virtual "Volvos are us" wonderland!
Mercedes are well represented. Older S models, Finnies, and the occasional Ponton. These are not dented or crashed cars either folks, just abandoned on the streets and collected by the city and disposed of at auctions. The yards pick them up either for free, or pay $100 for them from private parties with the titles.

I keep thinking about a scheme to ship these non-running cars back east to you folks. Fixing the mechanical stuff is a cinch compared to body rot.
Even the paint is still good on these MB's (of course if it is silver, forget it)

Maybe shipping by rail would be cost effective??

Members, how much would it cost to do this? Any thoughts?

Ed,
If you have any extra time on your hands, I'm looking for a good tailgate for my 82 300TD, no rust, no dents. doesn't need any badges or trim and paint color does not matter. Do you ever see any wagons in the yards? Mine came from KY. but looks as if the tailgate was hit at one time and then repaired, now the repaired area is rusted thru. Thanks, KIRK

how do the interiors look? (123's in particular).

My wife sorta indicated to me that I could not bring anymore non-running diesel MB's home :(

240ED,

Where are these places? I'm not currently in the market for anything but if I am I'm in S.F. so it might be worth the trip. Thanks.

Kirk, haven't seen any wagons yet, but there are two pristine restorable 115 coupes here in SJ (the one before the 123)

MJ
the interiors are virtually perfect, sun visors, carpets,etc. Except for wear patterns on the drivers seat, and map pocket damage...

Irg
Look in the yellow pages under Autos, Wrecking and look for Pick and Pull, or Pick your Part. The closest yard to you is Oakland. Big one in Fremont, three in SJ, etc. We are in heaven in the bay area, can get almost anything here for cheap!!
There is a perfect 115 sedan abondoned on 7th street here in SJ, 280 model, pea green with wheel covers!!