question for classic Benz lovers (late 60's, early 70's era)

[classic-Benz]

Hi all!

By pure accident (I was not looking for this car, I was looking for some parts for my sister's Mercedes e320) I just bought this mint condition, 1971 300E.

I always lusted for these cars, but never had the time, money or opportunity to get one, until now! :D well, i still have too many projects going on, so I told my wife that we bought his car together with my dad for him (he told my mom the opposite) :)

few questions I have for you guys:

where is the best place to get the pats and accesories for it?
I already bought few copies of the Classic Benz magazine, but it's printed in Germany and has little help for us, US owners as far as parts and accesory places..

Also, do any of you have classic car insurance coverage? If so, what are the companies and their contact info?

Thanks a lot for any help!

[Tom Hanson]

I work in wholesale parts at Caliber Motors in CA. I've been in MB parts since 73, and active with the MBCA since 75. I can help you all day long with parts for this car, and at a discount too. We advertise in the Star, and have since 1991. 800 252-6877 ext 306.

[Nitz240D]

Hello Classic-Benz,

I recently purchased a W108/109 Chassis Mercedes ('72 280SE). I have been looking for websites and info, so far the best I have come up with for general info is: http://www.geocities.com/mbz109/. For parts I allways use Rusty, he's got the best prices and FAST shipping. His address is: http://parts.mbz.org/start.wws.

For classic/historical/antique insurance, I did some research and found that I liked Hagerty the best overall, although there were plenty of other top notch insurance co.'s out there. Hagerty just seemed to suit me best. Their site is: http://www.hagerty.com/

Good luck with the car!

[Douglas W Smith]

I am in the process of accquireing a 280 vintage '69 and need some feed back as to any problems to look for. It was a family members car and is in great (body) shape but a bit incontinent, trans, rear, oil-pan, etc. Does any one wish to advise me about a fair price to offer for this car? Your help is awaited. Doug

[Tom Hanson]

Doug, is this 69 280SE a sedan, coupe, or convertible? Leaks can usually be taken care of fairly easily, but look for bondo around the headlights, lower body areas, around the wheel openings, and look for rust in the floors and chassis. Check for water in the oil and vice versa. Check the trans fluid for color and odor. A rough sedan isn't worth messing with. A coupe is marginal, and a convertible might be ok. Aslo look for head gasket replacement.

[Harshman]

I am four years into a 1970 280S. Here are some of the things I would suggest checking.
1) The modulator valve on the transmission can affect shifting, if not set properly.
2) If you smell gas, check the two hoses that run from the floor of the trunk up and out the rear deck. They can pull loose.
3) The heater levers are a chronic problem. There are replacements on the market that don't require removing the unit. However, I would bite the bullet and replace the levers if necessary. Look in the STAR for replacements.

Tom Hanson is a great source for parts, as is Rusty. I had to replace the driveshaft on mine and found a rebuilt driveshaft through the ads in the STAR.