Ran across this story and thought it would be of help (applies to both gas and diesel)

http:story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story2&u=/sm/20030326/bs_sm/20030326consacti

Yes, most of the suggestions here are reasonable. But there was one suggestion that is an outright lie:

"Rust is another concern, since moisture can build up under your car. One of the first components to be affected is the brake rotor. Once the rotor rusts, it must be replaced. As we mentioned earlier, a replacement will cost you at least $400."


That's just absolutely ridiculous! Many motorcycle racers use cast-iron rotors because they give a much greater braking response. These rotors will begin rusting overnight. A little film of rust on the rotors is hardly cause for replacement and any mechanic who tells me otherwise clearly has overstocked his supply of brake rotors.

__________________
Dave
1995 C280
1999 Triumph Daytona 955I - my speed fix.
1982 300TD - Gone, but not forgotten.

I agree w/benchracer. Rust is a concern on the frame but
will not appear overnight. It is something to look for when
buying a used car, even if the paint job makes it look like
a $20,000 car. Regarding rotors, most MB's from the mid 90's
have rotors that cost $50 each or less. Just look on ebay
or www.adsitco.com (no affiliation). It is a relatively easy
job to replace rotors, if you don't want to do it yourself you
should continue to shop around if quoted more than $200.

Mrdhh,

Or better yet, look for your parts on this website in Fastlane or Partshop.

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I agree that rusty rotors are not a problem. They are bare cast iron and will rust when they get wet or when humidity is high. But the first application of the brakes wipes them clean. Rotors are good as long as they are not warped (which you can feel in the brake pedal) and are thicker than their minimum wear limit.

P E H