SL/R230: Flap broke off
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 157
Likes: 33
From: Walpole, MA USA
2004 SL500
Flap broke off
So this fiddly piece came off. I tried reattaching but I believe the tiny post at the bottom of the opening has broken away.
Any experiences with this type of repair?
Last edited by sean65; May 20, 2019 at 02:37 PM.
MBworld Guru
Joined: Dec 2009
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NO LONGER ACTIVE
This is VERY common. I was able to fashion a new hinge pin from some stainless steel wire, and then I used elastic bands that I riveted to the flap and the trim panel to act as both the return spring and a way to hold it in place in case the hinge breaks again.
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Joined: Jul 2014
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From: Tucson, AZ
'20 X5 M50i; '17 Ram 3500; Golf Cart; Bikes; Scooters
If the hinge pin and posts are still intact, you can drill small holes in the hinges and tie it in place with fine stainless safety wire.
Worked well to repair my flaps, even without the closing springs.
Worked well to repair my flaps, even without the closing springs.
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 18
Likes: 6
From: Bremerton, WA
2005 SL500 Designo Edition
You could check out EBay, there is a seller that created and sells a "SPANGLER REPAIR KIT" which works well if you still have the flap. There is also a 3D Printed version that you just have cover with matching vinyl if you have lost the entire flap.
Thread Starter
Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 157
Likes: 33
From: Walpole, MA USA
2004 SL500
Great tip! Yes, I still have the original cover. I'll run an Ebay search. Thank you!
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Joined: Aug 2003
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From: In my garage
E55, GLS450, GL63, GLE350
I've got an unused Spangler repair kit that I will sell at a discount. Let me know. I replaced both trim pieces.
Last edited by BlownV8; May 21, 2019 at 06:00 PM.
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From: Atlanta, unfortunately
'09 S600, (2) R129 300SLs, '03 SL500, '03 SL55
I know of two forum members who regard Spangler's early kit as a "scam". It is described here: https://www.benzworld.org/forums/r23...stic-flap.html. That said, it seems he is now offering something better with 3D-printed material...
Last edited by bobterry99; May 21, 2019 at 06:11 PM.
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From: Gold Canyon, Az.
1988 560SL, 2017 SL 450, and a few Corvettes
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 8,882
Likes: 1,214
From: In my garage
E55, GLS450, GL63, GLE350
I know of two forum members who regard Spangler's early kit as a "scam". It is described here: https://www.benzworld.org/forums/r23...stic-flap.html. That said, it seems he is now offering something better with 3D-printed material...
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 18
Likes: 6
From: Bremerton, WA
2005 SL500 Designo Edition
I can't comment one way or the as to the validity of his product but you could also check out this post. https://mbworld.org/forums/sl-class-...ml#post6185460
I had one missing when I purchased the car but the dealer replaced the whole trim piece as part of the sale. Good luck.
I had one missing when I purchased the car but the dealer replaced the whole trim piece as part of the sale. Good luck.
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 71
Likes: 3
From: Faqirhope, Alabama
r230
flap
I did drill very tiny holes at the proper places in the hinges and attached the"flaps" with 25 lb monofilament fishing line..
Seems to be working well without the spring attached
Seems to be working well without the spring attached
