sl 500 '94 - a bit of everything
 

Hi,
Just bought a nice '94 SL500 with 72k miles.. I had a the car pre-inspected by a dealer. They suggested i need the following:

1/ new steering box, reseal the rear differentials, new headlamp washers
What should i expect to pay for having this done at a local garage

2/ There is a good amount of rust in the bottom of both doors, and the speakers in the right hand side door only works occassionally... Assume water has been trapped inside the door.

- what do i do? New doors? or can a body shop fix this. What should i expect to to pay at the body shop, - and what do i do short term to prevent it from worsening.

and finally a question that will put a smile on your face (I'm crying). When i switch on the light the head lamp washer start running as it was spraying although the fluid container is empty - no wonder.

I'm in Norther New Jersey (Morristown), and need a good garage to assist me. Any suggestions

toaster, it appears you got "toasted". A MB dealer performed a pre-purchase inspection and failed to mention the rusted doors. Repairing rust can be a never-ending battle. I wouldn't consider buying any MB with even minor rust issues. In the long run it may be best to replace the doors with ones that are in excellent condition and rust-free, but first you may want to get a professional opinion from a reputable body shop that specializes in MB repairs.

Wow....there are many concerns there....Rust is like cancer. You can battle forever and then never get it all. I agree with Ferdman that you should probably investigate replacing doors to make sure you get it all. How are the door sills?
Headlamp washers are expensive - I had to replace the motor on one of mine and the part was $500!
You have some meaningful fixes there....but you have come to the right place for help!