Pre-Purchase Inspection

[dbogan]

Can anyone recommend someone to provide a pre-purchase inspection on a 1970 280 SL in the San Diego, Calif. area?
I would appreiciate the help.
Thanks. Dave.

[Tom Hanson]

MB Auto Center on Broadway, downtown. 619 234-5418. Or Onager in Chula Vista (Bob Gunthorpe, MBCA member). 619 , oh, I forgot the number...
Where in San Diego is the car ? I know several shops there, but it is a huge territory.

[Napoleon Hodges]

Onager's is in Chula Vista at Brown Station. Excellent outfit.

[dbogan]

Thanks to you both so much. The one I was considering is at VIP Classics, 861 5th Avenue,San Diego, CA. However, I then found out that they don't have the soft top, and the other one that they have is $10,000 more (and more than I care to spend). So I guess I'm back on the hunt. But I thank you for your prompt responses in an effort to help.
Dave

[Tom Hanson]

If you're in the market for a 280SL, I may be able to help you locate just what you're looking for. Let me know what you want, and how much you want to pay for it. I have many resources for these cars.

[dbogan]

Gee, thanks Tom.
The one I was considering was $19,995, which is about the most that I'd like to spend. Obviously, at that price I'm not looking for something that is "show quality", but rather a solid weekend driver. Because I live on the east coast, both tops and air are essential. I have observed that most seem to be located in California, and to a lesser extent, Florida. Consequently, I have accepted that even if I find someone to do the inspection I will likely have to make a trip (hopefully someplace pleasant!) to see the car myself.
Dave

[john m]

Hello dbogan
Please do not go into shock.
I have seen many MB beauties on the used car lots every time I get to lost wages Nevada.
There are so many that they are always below market value.
When gambling fever strikes; the car goes to pay the bill.
Just go for the cars, and get out with your treasure.

[Tom Hanson]

I wouldn't worry too much about a/c on one of these cars if everything else is in good order. The system on a 280SL didn't do much in keeping you cool. If you want air, just remove the top. Even if you find one with working a/c, it's a disappointment. Modern a/c can be easily added, and the car will work better with it. Modern systems use less power and take up less space. You can make it look original inside the car easy enough, and you'll pay less for an example without a/c. Coasts less to add than to replace all the original components anway.

[dbogan]

John, thanks for the Vegas advice! I'll certainly consider your suggestion.
Tom:
Thanks so much for the advice. I'm was beginning to think in that direction, but now will definitely do so. I'm actually going to check out 2 230s and 2 280s tomorrow.
Any idea of cost for a new system? (I definitely need it, as it gets rather hot in Connecticut in July and August - and I HATE HEAT!).
Any recommendation as to a supplier?
Thanks. I can see that you will be a wealth of information.

[dbogan]

Okay. I think I"ve found it.
I need a recommendation for someone to take a look at a car in Los Angeles ASAP?
Recommendations?

[Tom Hanson]

Los Angeles is HUGE. Can you get a more specific vicinity? There are about as many MB shops as there are 7-11 stores.

[dbogan]

Thanks Tom.
The Seller is 5-6 blocks from the Beverly Center Shopping Center, near Santa Monica.

[Tom Hanson]

I'll check with my associate at work. he knows that area better than I do. Or call me at 800 252-6877 ext 306 and we'll find out alot faster.

[dbogan]

Thanks Tom. I'm all set.
I am now the proud owner of a 1968 280 SL.
Thanks for all of your help!

[Tom Hanson]

Fantastic !! Keep my number. I'll save you a bundle in parts costs. I'm able to do some troubleshooting on it too, but many more mechanics read these posts too. I'm used to selling certain parts to cure a particular problem, and after 31 years you get used to it. There is only just so much that can go wrong. These cars were very simple by today's standards. Have fun with your new car !!

[dbogan]

Thanks so much Tom.
You're a gem!

[dbogan]

Hi Tom: Got my car and it's GORGEOUS!
Any suggestions as to where I can find floor mats (at a reasonable price!). I checked Bud's Benz and German Star and was told they are out of production for 68 280 SLs. Thanks.

[perry]

Every tried Cocomats? They are not cheap, but they work really well, fit perfectly as they are custom cut per order, and look period correct on the cars. The busy pattern really hides the dirt.

Just go to http://www.cocomats.com.

I'm not related to the company, just a satisfied customer.

Perry

[dbogan]

Thanks for the suggestion. I've been thinking about them, and barring other information they may be the only option. Also glad to hear that you're satisfied as I know they are not inexpensive.
Thanks again.

[Tom Hanson]

I might be able to get them from Lloyd Design. They used to carry them. We're a distributor for their mats. What color do you need ?

[dbogan]

Thanks Tom.
Black or a very dark grey would be preferred.
If you need to call me, feel free to try my office (203-462-7504) or my cell anytime (203-641-5343).