well, i have figured out that the odometer is not broken...had the guy take a picture, drive a few miles, and then take another picture of the odo...seems to be turning over

its actually a 1985 280SE...vinyl seats without power...has the M110 engine...all the wood is in good condition, and the windows work...needs a new antenna, also non powered i think...

i decided against it because of the price, $3500...and he isnt budging on that....i also decided not to get it because of the availability of parts...something goes wrong you cant just go to Autozone and pick up a new part...just figured i would post what i found out in case someone here might be interested....like i said, the car drove out like a dream...i kick myself for ever getting rid of my 300SD, its very hard to find one of these cars in decent condition anymore

It's still listing on CL as a 500sel...so the poster hasn't changed to to reflect the proper model...

You did tell him it's a 280SE? Right?

At least, wouldn't a check of the VIN show it as such? :confused:

Autozone/Advanced/etc typically carry only basic stuff for any of the MBs. Some filters/etc.

I've never had them have anything in stock. In fact their catalog for the 300SD was wrong about its A/C compressor as well. 617's take the R4, they had some newer style one listed. I had to select a 300D which listed the R4.

I've given up on local part availability. Even if they do have it, its not in stock and must be ordered (3-4 days). At that point, I might as well order it online, cheaper, no tax, free shipping, OE/M manufacturer.

Beyond basic tune up/filter/fluid type stuff, I buy all my parts online or from my mechanic (filters and small things)

When we had our 560 our "local" MB dealer (about an hour's drive from here) usually took a day or two for most parts we needed. Usually i could get what i needed from Fastlane delivered to my door quicker and for less money than i could have driven to pick up. I tried to use them a few times in the beginning, then just gave up and developed a relationship with Phil. Too good of a relationship--as those who have experienced a 560 SEL would understand!! :eek: