Hi All:

I purchased a 1998 C43 a few months ago, silver over black. When I drove it, the sound and fury was so incredible that I just couldn't resist it despite its needs.

Ah, the needs. Although it was very sound it was somewhat neglected but easily sortable with some parts-chasing and basic wrenching. I was pleased that the seller also bought it with the intention of bringing it up to snuff. However, since the seller only had the car for only a short time he did just two things: he ditched the dodgy aftermarket wheels and put on the 18 AMG monoblocks...good choice and then he lowered it...IMO bad choice. Since his wheel investment alone was north of $1,000 he (or his better half) decided to sell the car given the anticipated costs associated with its cosmetic, maintenance, and paint needs. I know, I know, buy the best example you can afford...skip the cars with no service history...there is no such thing as a cheap Mercedes... yadda yadda yadda. But after you have bought all sorts of cars over 30 years you have the stripes where you can just get a feeling about a good one...and this one was a diamond in the rough that just needed service, some small bits, and paint. I was willing to source and buy the parts and do most of the work myself, and besides I only paid a few thousand dollars for the car. Plus, I do not have an AMG in my collection (which includes 4 benzes, a Ferrari 456M and an 86 911).

I have been able to sort out all of its maintenance needs including plugs, all fluids, filters, valve cover gaskets, engine and transmission mounts, the usual routine services on a 20 year old car with really no maintenance history. I had a fellow redo the headliner and sun shade for just $300, how could I refuse that?! The car had no radio but came with the stock speakers (removed by one of the prior owners for some reason). I was able to source an OEM unit from the local U-Pull-R-Parts and install that along with the included speakers...sounds great. I have also sourced great used OEM turn lenses, OEM cup holder, OEM window/trunk switch surround and other small needs through E-Bay. Of interest was a torn and worn out armrest on the driver's door that I was able to sort with the extra driver door panel that came with the car. I am sure that I am missing a few things here and there, but it is quite satisfying getting this old girl back into shape and it has been a comparative bargain factoring in that the only labor that I have had to pay for was for the smoking deal for the headliner replacement and an independent to handle the oil change and transmission service.

Now for the problem. All I have left (prior to paintwork) is that niggly front bumper insert. I have not been able to source a new or used part. I did see that someone on U-Tube fashioned one by trimming down a w208 front bumper insert, but I would hate to have to resort to that to fill the space. Is there some source for the bumper insert that I am overlooking? Have folks put in something other than the stock c43 insert (like a standard W202 insert, or mesh, or something else) in order to fill that space?

Thanks much.

Randy.

 

Do you mean the tow cover? See picture with red arrows.

 

Yes, that's it.

 

Better than tow cover, I call that part the tooth brace

Now perhaps my memory is playing tricks, but I recall that someone was talking of manufacturing this specific part for those who loose it because it wasn't zip tied

 

Hello Everyone,

I am a new member , I have been searching far and wide for these tow covers, is there anyone on this board who has them for sale or knows of where to get them fabricated?

I would greatly appreciate any help at all.

Thanks,
Leonidas

 

I'm looking for exactly the same piece. I saw the this innovative idea on YouTube, but not sure if I'm ready for that yet.

 

IF you guys want I can modify the insert from the 208 as the youtube video shows.. You can buy one from ebay and have it shipped to me. I will than make all the needed cuts, and than I will paint it and clear coated and finally ship it to you. If any of you is interested send me a PM. And btw, for you new guys, I modify the C43 air box to make it put out 10HP/10TQ. I've sold 15 here so I'm a trusted member. You can also paypal me the money for that part and I will order it and modify it and send it to you when its all done, up to you. Thanks.

 

^^-Go with this TRUSTED guy, will not regret-^^..

-;ZAYED;-

 

Geo, this would be so clutch! I keep hearing & seeing people without these front bumper pieces & clearly they're difficult to obtain. This would be a perfect solution that are in need of one; top notch work for sure!

 

Zayed, thanks.
Hayden, what does clutch mean?
I do think I can mod this to fit the C43 nicely.

 

Sorry! Meaning it would be very helpful for the community.

 

Indeed..,,

this insert is sooooo light, and easy to fallen or breaks..

-;ZAYED;-

 

Well, I can buy and modify to fit the c43 as good as it can get. Goal would be to NOT have to use straps to hold in place.

I will buy a NEW one from the other Mercedes model and mod and sell each one for about $220.00 all completely done.

 

I pulled a tow hook cover from a w208 in a junkyard for $8.00. Same silver color so no need to paint it I am going to try the modification seen on u-tube.

 

Nice, I'm going to see if the junkyard somewhat nearby have any mercedes. Usually they don't, when they do they are worthless.

 

Maybe fab a really nice one from carbon fiber. The cloth comes in colors right? Could do black & silver ones....

 

i second this, you wont be disappointed

 

I third this. George is a great guy and totally reliable

 

The missing tow hook cover.


On the 18s with no drop.

 

that's some serious ride height!
you've got no prob passing speedbumps.

Koni adjustables with # Vogtland 952079 will do the trick!