SL/R129: New SL owner
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Central Nevada
2001 SL 500
New SL owner
Hello,, Just recently acquired a 2001 SL 500 Sport. We got the SL in a trade, trade a 2000 Nissan Frontier, in great shape w/ just over 100K mi. The SL has just over 38K. Trade was a straight across. The only problem that I have found is the front bumper has a crack on the bottom, underneath where it its only visible from ground level, and the center dash vents are not working(no air flow). I'm thinking the trade was a fair one. Have all the service paper work from a MB dealership in Vegas. The previous owner is the second owner, I'm the third. Has the original windshield, w/ signatures from assembly line, I'm guessing. Looking forward to owning this automoblie for a long time and reading this forum in the future. Will post pics soon as I clean her up. 
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 598
Likes: 19
From: Eastern Kansas
94 SL 600, 98 993, 89 XJS Conv., 85 Daimlier Princess 16 Hybrid Lincoln 16 Chevy crewcab
Good trade? I'd take it in a flash.
Many of us have driven too far toward the curb / parking stop. Personally I have had a family member drive home the newly re-bumpered benz, only to pull in too far. At 2k I will wait for a class reunion to replace the cover so I can so off "in style".
As you explore the forums, you may find the vent issue linked to electronic control module ( big bucks ) or very simple like vacuum tube reconnection. Locks are part of a vacuum system, too.
Hydraulics are straight forward, but everything is duration sensitive. ( getting older has its special issues! ) I for one want the right fix at the best price, and since my toys are not the daily drivers I can take the time to seek out the best solution. I hope you have the same flexibility.
These cars are complex when you DIY, but experience ( and reading the forum ) can avoid the broken parts, brittle plastic and sticker shock from the dealer parts department!
Welcome to the circle, and enjoy the toys of life.
Many of us have driven too far toward the curb / parking stop. Personally I have had a family member drive home the newly re-bumpered benz, only to pull in too far. At 2k I will wait for a class reunion to replace the cover so I can so off "in style".
As you explore the forums, you may find the vent issue linked to electronic control module ( big bucks ) or very simple like vacuum tube reconnection. Locks are part of a vacuum system, too.
Hydraulics are straight forward, but everything is duration sensitive. ( getting older has its special issues! ) I for one want the right fix at the best price, and since my toys are not the daily drivers I can take the time to seek out the best solution. I hope you have the same flexibility.
These cars are complex when you DIY, but experience ( and reading the forum ) can avoid the broken parts, brittle plastic and sticker shock from the dealer parts department!
Welcome to the circle, and enjoy the toys of life.
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Oct 2012
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
From: Central Nevada
2001 SL 500
Thanks SRHsl600, I'm going to check into the vacuum block under the hood as I get some free time. Center vents don't seem to be a priority as the temps are cooling down, and even w/o them, the AC seems to keep the cabin comfortable with only the side vents. I kinda temp. fixed the bumper, just to the right of center, the old fashioned way, I JB Welded it from behind, used duct tape to pull it together and hold it in place then mixed up some JB Weld and spread it along the two cracks from the inside, let set for 48hrs., and now holds together great and is barely visible under normal viewing positions, look at the photos as proof. I'm sure there will come a time when I will need professional help from an MB Service Pro, but until then I'll do what I can within my abilities. Did go to my local MB dealership in Reno, Nv. to get familiar with them and they were very helpful and friendly.
Last edited by certz656; Oct 18, 2012 at 11:16 PM.
