My W126 380SE

[c107]

Big improvement.
I prefer the slim headlight wipers on the series 1 cars than the fatter units on the series 2.

 

[Patrick_R]

Really coming along well Michel.

 

[Michel]

In the spray booth.
Ready for paint.

 

[c107]

Looks even better without those 'chrome' wheel arch moulds!

 

[Michel]

Looks even better without those 'chrome' wheel arch moulds!

Sorry Bryce, I'm an old chrome lover

 

[Patrick_R]

I don’t mind them either Michel.
The chap who bought my 560SEL has fitted a set, which don’t look too bad at all.

 

[Michel]

I'm looking for an under-bonnet mat.
Does anyone sell them in Australia?
There are plenty on eBay, but they are all o/s.

 

[Patrick_R]

Sorry Michel, I can’t help with this one.

 

[c107]

Silver star did at least a couple of years back. I know they are no longer interested in classics but this is a common part. Might be worth trying ASV too.

I'm looking for an under-bonnet mat.
Does anyone sell them in Australia?
There are plenty on eBay, but they are all o/s.

 

[Michel]

SS and ASV both don't have.
I have ordered a new one from Peter Warren Mercedes $230 plus tax.

 

[Michel]

For the last few days Jerry has been repairing the bumper bars and the cladding on the sides.
Today he repainted them:

 

[c107]

Looks really good.

 

[Michel]

Looks really good.

Bit by bit.... not rushing...
As you would know, having many cars that always require maintenance, things go rather slowly

 

[Patrick_R]

Really nice work.
Thanks for the update Michel.

 

[Michel]

Today I decided to take the 380SE to an outside broadcast by my radio station.
It wasn't far, about 15-20 minute drive to Canley Heights RSL Club where the EH and EJ Holden Club of NSW was holding its annual Show N Shine.
I'm really enjoying this car. I think I have bought a little diamond in the (not so) rough.
I have managed to sort out the central locking - it now works on three doors only (was simply disconnected before) as the actuators for the passenger front door and the petrol cap are faulty (need to get new or good used ones).
I have located a window mechanism for the back passenger door and fitted it (the original one was slipping and jamming as some teeth were broken).
Jerry stripped the bumper bars and repainted them and it now looks nice.

Yet to be done:

• The gearbox plays up: changes up into 3rd with a thud and then decides to rev up as if it is wanting to go back into 3rd but doesn't. Not sure if it is a modulator adjustment or a rebuild. (The oil is clean and full).
• Needs new disc brakes and pads all around.
• Also a new set of tyres- Not sure if I'll keep the Bundts or go for the next generation W126 wheels in a 15 inch size or perhaps find nice set of Hammers (I have some like the ones on my CLK).
• A bonnet insulation mat.
• A serious detail job on the inside with leather conditioning to be applied - there are no tears or cracks.

So this is my latest update on the 380SE W126.

 

[c107]

Michel - the car is looking really good.

If you go with the hammers, unless they are the correct offset and a period wheel (i.e. made around the time of the car) you would need to change from historic registration type to modified....

 

[Patrick_R]

Another great update Michel.
This is a gem as you said.

 

[Michel]

Michel - the car is looking really good.

If you go with the hammers, unless they are the correct offset and a period wheel (i.e. made around the time of the car) you would need to change from historic registration type to modified....

Totally forgot about that little detail
Thanks for reminding me

 

[c107]

The 380SE is such an underrated car. I’m perplexed why the market values the 420SEL at 3x. It’s not 3x the car.

the 300 and 380 are the best bang for buck in the 126 range.

 

[Styria]

Michel, I treally admire your tenacity in bringing this car up to scratch and the way you want it to be for possible resale. I certainly don't envy you given the fact that you are flat out with so many tasks on hand. You're going great guns. Additionally Michel, isn't it great and ever so useful that C107 is able to talk so professionally and with knowledge on the 126 series. Good luck with everything. Regards Styria