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The time has come where I'm considering my next project car, and there have been a few tempting R107s showing up in my area. However, I have one major concern: what is the cost and availability of parts necessary to keep these things running well and looking great? Aside from eBay, car-part.com, and a local MB dealer are there any other good sources for parts? My most recent benchmarks are my 2007 Lexus IS (Daily) and 1994 Chevy Suburban (last restoration project).
As a bonus, any particular issues I should look out for? Haven't come across any recurring themes through my forum searches, other than that parts can get pricey.
Looking forward to getting into one of these gorgeous machines! Who knows, maybe I'll use it as a base to offer some cool LED products for you all.
All 107s through the 1985 model year have a front subframe that may crack. Mercedes officially "recalled" the 450SL for repair or replacement. All others were at the dealers discretion.
'81-'83 USA 380SL/C had single row timing chains which may break. All V/8s except '71-'73 have plastic/nylon timing chain guide rails which may break. Chain tensioner also gets weak over the years.
The '75-'76 US 450SL had catalytic converters in the engine compartment.
The Chrysler designed '78-'81 ACCII system was problematic.
Pelican parts is okay for some things but they charge more than Mercedes for genuine Mercedes parts. There are Mercedes online Dealerships that sell parts for around 25% off MSRP.
Thanks for the responses everyone! As of 2 days ago, I've got this party started:
I'm blown away by the driving experience of this car already, and oddly impressed by how solid the doors feel. Hell, it feels more solid than my 30 year younger Lexus sedan.
Going to read up more on the ACCII, since my climate control doesn't currently work. The blower fan works in Defroster mode, and will blow heat, but no cool - the fan will not blow in other modes. Sounds like an indicator of the servo issue, right? I'm also going to check the refrigerant pressure and convert to R134a if low.
