I am considering a 1980 280ge swb, 4-spd. I know nothing about these vehicles and was hoping someone could chime in with their experience owning/operating one. I have had numerous MB's over the years but nothing as industrial as this. What should I expect maintenance wise? I totally understand the "utilitarian" aspect, meaning no a/c, no power windows, etc...thats what I am looking for with this....more of a weekend toy. Are parts readily available in the US? Easy to work on? I am not finding alot of resources on the old interweb for the older G's. Please and thank you.

Rob

Go to the www.pointedthree.com G-Class Forum, and you will find lots of information, including sources for parts.

I drove a 1984 280GE for 18 yrs and 111,000 miles, and enjoyed the heck out of it.

Change their oil, filters and keep them lubed including grease nipples, change coolant every 2 years and clean out the fresh air well under the hood-your heater blower is down there with a drain tube in bottom of well that plugs. Oil spray every year and touch up paint before rust. Don't bash it into everything you see. Parts are getting scarce.
You'll have a ball.