I am a novice to the Mercedes Benz 450SL and found one that I am looking to restore (new hobby). I have one question regarding identifying a component in the engine compartment. The 1977 450SL I am looking at has an empty space to the left of the engine, adjacent to the fender near the firewall. Now, coming from the engine near this area is a small metal tube which
SEEMS to be disconnected and bent downward (crimped?). The car runs, so it is not the battery as I have seen in other year SL's. I have seen pictures of some SL's with something there, but I
cannot identify it - then again, I have seen some cars without anything at all.
Help me! I don't know what to make of it. Thanks to all.