The Forum

Garage => Interiors & Exteriors => Topic started by: carl888 on 29 December 2007, 07:55 AM

Title: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 29 December 2007, 07:55 AM
Well, I've finally begun to put things back into the 280 SE, it's always a nice feeling when you turn this corner...

This started as a simple "re-dye" the centre console, you can see what the original one looked like here:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SE46.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW11674.jpg)




Notice the damage to the top section of the rear of the console here, no wonder my switches were wobbly!

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW11677.jpg)





I've seen this sort of marking on almost every 116 I've seen.  Had the interior been scrappy, I wouldn't have worried about it, but it's quite nice, so I decided to have Billy at Leather Creations have his way with it.  Anyway, the job he did was great.  But before the console went back in, I found a few nasties to tidy up first.



IMO, car radio installers should be shot, have a look at this:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116t.jpg)

What you see above is the fader, the tool that installed it, couldn't even be bothered to solder the wires to the fader, just wrap them around the terminals and cover the whole thing in insulation tape......




(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116s.jpg)

Not only that, because the antenna wire had been wrapped around the steering column it was about 10 cm too short to make it to the stereo......so lets just add a 14 foot extension and coil the wire up behind the dash!

But the best part....was the power supply to the unit, this is how 12 volts made it to the radio:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116r.jpg)

Complete with 30 amp fuse I might add........      At some stage, a third brake light had also been added, the wiring was similar, it was so bad in fact that common decency prevented me from photographing the work.  Needless to say, the wiring has now been removed and the damage to the loom repaired.

The Phillips radio was installed in 1978, since the car is 1974, I have a period Becker Mexico that will go in its place.

Thanks to Robertd I was able to source two original Becker rear parcel shelf speaker grilles to replace the Clarion ones installed in 1978.

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116d.jpg)

And here are the Becker grilles:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116b.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116c.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116f.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116h.jpg)




The front speakers were too large to fit the recess so the installer cut part of the frame off with some tin snips.... I was able to find some Phillips 4" speakers that fitted perfectly:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116o.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116p.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116q.jpg)


Here is the interior as it stands as of this evening.  I hope to get close to completing it tomorrow.  The re-dyed console really looks a treat in the car.

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116j.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116n.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116m.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116l.jpg)


Regards,

Carl.
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: Big_Richard on 29 December 2007, 08:10 AM
.
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: 116Benz on 29 December 2007, 08:20 AM
Remarkable, as PB has said, apart from the odd blemish, it looks briliant. Pitty about the tools that thought they could work on the car before you got it, one of those times you wish they were within earshot.
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: robertd on 29 December 2007, 05:51 PM
Hi Carl,

Good to see you hard at it, this car is going to be an absolute cracker when its finished.
For all of you that have not seen this car up close in person, It is as good as it looks in the pics.

Regards Robert
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: Big_Richard on 29 December 2007, 05:55 PM
.
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: 500eguy on 30 December 2007, 05:19 PM
maybe its time for me to tidy up my interior! yours looks fantastic!
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: CraigS on 31 December 2007, 01:15 AM
What did you end up using to re-dye the console ?
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 31 December 2007, 01:42 AM
Thanks for all the positive comments fellow 116's! 

(Craig, the console is covered in an elasticised paint, can post the info of the chap that did it for me if you like)

Unfortuantely the last few days have not been as productive as hoped, the 42 degree day ensured I only spent the early part of the morning in the workshop.  I have now replaced all the wiring for the Stereo and made sure it's all soldered! I did discover a few more issues though that need sorting though.

1. The centre console is actually damaged, the support between the top of the ash tray housing and the bottom of the heater and fan control bezel is missing.  I didn't realise this until I tried to put it back together....and in the end, had to remove the console again!

You can see the console here and see how the support is missing:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116a1.jpg)



A few minutes with a hack saw, some aluminium and some screws turned up this:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116a2.jpg)



This bracket now fits really nicely on the back of the console and apart from making the console more rigid, now allows the stereo to be affxed properly, and provides location for the bottom of the ventilation control bezel which was wobbly before:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116a3.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116a4.jpg)




I also cleaned up and tested the Becker Mexico which works very well:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116a7.jpg)

I can't say the same for the amplifier though!  One channel is not working.  Does anyone have a spare amp they would be willing to sell?



One final problem, does anyone have a spare steel clip that fits on the side of the rear light switch as shown in the pics below?  Mine has gone missing, and of course, instead of changing the clip, or the switch, the person that "worked" on the car just glued the whole switch in with super glue......

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116a8.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116a10.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116a9.jpg)


Thanks for any help with these bits.

Regards,

Carl.








(//)


Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: oscar on 31 December 2007, 03:11 AM
Carl,

Great work.  It's amazing that a car in such good condition that it still needs this kind of attention.  But boy the pics speak for themselves.  The carpet looks new too.  Is it just really clean or replaced?  The blue looks so vivid.

Now down to business.

I'll give you a later type switch.  It's got the illuminated disc of the later models but will still work as is or you can pull a clip out to use on your old one.
Click for bigger images

(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/17099-3/interiorlightswitch.JPG) (http://gallery.w116.org/v/garage/oscars/misc/interiorlightswitch.JPG/)(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/17103-3/interiorlightswitch+_1_.JPG) (http://gallery.w116.org/v/garage/oscars/misc/interiorlightswitch+_1_.JPG/)


Now the Mexico.  Here's mine.  It's in a box of bits and I haven't had time to test it let alone clean it up.  There's a subtle difference to yours with the italics v straight print of the "mexico" but otherwise very similar.  Check out the pics. 

I have no idea if the amp works but I'll give it to you if it's the same as yours on an exchange basis.  If mine works you can keep it in return for your malfunctioning one and one day I'll crack it open and try and fault find.  If it doesn't work, simply return it.  Either way, you can have the switch.  PM me if interested.

(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/17107-3/mexicoamp.JPG) (http://gallery.w116.org/v/garage/oscars/misc/mexicoamp.JPG/)(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/17111-3/mexicoamp1.JPG) (http://gallery.w116.org/v/garage/oscars/misc/mexicoamp1.JPG/)(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/17115-3/mexicoamp1+_1_.JPG) (http://gallery.w116.org/v/garage/oscars/misc/mexicoamp1+_1_.JPG/)


Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 31 December 2007, 07:28 PM
Hi Oscar,

Yes, it's not only amazing, but infuriating!  All of the work on that car except for basic maintenance and the tyres/rims has been spent correcting the shoddy work of others.  The console has been the biggest issue, however at least I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

The car is as I bought it, I have never cleaned it inside or out except for washing the dust off the exterior when I picked it up.

(PM on the way!)

Regards,

Carl.

 
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 31 December 2007, 09:15 PM
Hmm, just found another thing I need, anyone have a spare set of Becker radio mounting hardware, same as this ebay listing:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180199784802&fromMakeTrack=true (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180199784802&fromMakeTrack=true)

Please let me know if so!

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: s class on 01 January 2008, 01:10 PM
Carl you have a very special car there.  I'm pleased to see you are taking the originality so seriously.  Keep it up, and keep the pictures coming!
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 02 January 2008, 06:22 AM
Thanks s class and parks,

With regards to the carpet, it's orginal, I've never even cleaned it.

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: s class on 02 January 2008, 07:33 AM
Carl,

I see your top dash pad seems to have a finish that is flat to satin rather than a semi gloss finish.  Is this original or has it been sprayed?

I'm asking this because most 116's seem to have pretty shiny dashes.  This may be due to years of sun and silicone treatment.  I've heard that new replacements are altogether duller (and someone told me less correct!) than these typical old dashes. 

Anyhow, the dash in your car looks very similar to the new replacements.  Could you do a favour and provide some closer shots of the dash top?

Many thanks
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 02 January 2008, 07:48 AM
Hi s class,

No, the dash is not painted, like the carpet, and everything else that everyone has asked me about in there except that bloody centre console! 

I'm old enough to recall W116's new in the showroom and I can assure you the dash was never gloss, or even remotely satin.  They are matte.

No problem to take pics of the dash but I can't do it till probably Sunday.

Regards,

Carl.



Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 02 January 2008, 08:07 AM
Hi again s class,

I found some other pics that my be of interest as they show part of the dash, you can see them here:

http://s115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/?start=120

Hope that helps till I can take some close ups. 

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: s class on 02 January 2008, 09:30 AM
Thanks Carl.  Sorry I wasn't meaning to offend by asking if the dash had been painted.

This car is truly a reference for those of us doing restorations. 
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 02 January 2008, 06:13 PM
Hi s class,

Hey, no problem, I wasn't getting funny about it, just that I have had soooooooo many private emails about that interior and what's been replaced!  Just to set the record straight from what I know. 

The car was delivered in 1974 in Melbourne and has had two prior owners before me.  The last owner who had the car from 1979 till 2006 stated he "Hated" armor all!  Anyone that cleaned the bottom of the car with a tooth brush I thought should know!  (Have you seen the pics of the underside..that's how I bought the car)  I am pretty sure that that's the reason all the vinyl looks so nice, and matte.  Additionally, the car was always garaged, which is why the carpet and trim that's exposed looks so nice.  IMO, armor all should only be put on tyres.

I showed the car to an ex Lanes Motors Melbourne (Mercedes-Benz Dealer here for a long time where the car was delivered) and he stated that the dash and trim was exactly has he remembered them. 

From what I can tell, the interior has had the following work performed:

1978..replacement of radio (And subsequent butchery as per pics)
1980..repainting of centre console (Badly)
1981..installation of security system (Now removed)
1985..installation of third brake light (Now removed)

Apart from those things, I can't find any evidence of bits being replaced at all.  If you are chasing pics of anything besides the dash, do let me know.  I also received a comprehensive history file on the car along with all the documentation from delivery, including the original warranty certificate, data card etc.  I can scan all this for you if you like.       

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: WGB on 02 January 2008, 06:27 PM
Thank you Carl for taking the time and effort to document all this.

I do like your DIY bracket.

Bill
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: s class on 03 January 2008, 12:32 AM
Interesting that the console was repainted so early in its life. 
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 03 January 2008, 05:07 AM
Thanks Bill, let's hope it does the trick.  I'm up to about 40 hours in the interior so far and I hopeI've found the last of the damage......

s class...yes, it is odd that it was re-dyed so early on.  When I was looking for a 116, I noticed all the blue and brown interior cars had a discoloured centre console.  All the black and cream ones looked just fine.  I wonder what the problem is, maybe some different material or plasctic used for the centre section?

Also, I made an error in the ownership of the car, the previous owner had the car till 2007, not 2006.

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: OzBenzHead on 03 January 2008, 05:28 AM
Quote from: Carl Jones on 03 January 2008, 05:07 AM
[...] all the blue and brown interior cars had a discoloured centre console.  All the black and cream ones looked just fine.  I wonder what the problem is, maybe some different material or plasctic used for the centre section? [...]
To my eye, the texture and sheen of the console vinyl is marginally but obviously different from that of the dash pad on each of my 116 interiors - one being black, one brown, and one avocado. 

On the console the pattern is more shallowly impressed, the sections (between the "veins" or grain lines) are just the tiniest bit larger, the colour relatively faded (even the black one) and the sheen is higher. 

In each instance I find the console vinyl looks just a tad cheap compared with the dash pads; it certainly appears to be from a different manufacturer - or perhaps some heat-related process alters it.
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 04 January 2008, 09:57 PM
Hi OzBenzHead,

Yes, I agree with you, the texture on the console is different, the texture is certainly finer on the console.

s class, here we go with the dash pics, lets me know if you need any more.  I've included a pic of the drivers side door trim as a point of reference.

Regards,

Carl.


(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116100.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116101.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116102.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116103.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116104.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116105.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116106.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116107.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116108.jpg)



Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: Andrew280SEL on 04 January 2008, 10:04 PM
Wow, a pristine dash! We Aussies rarely see such things!

That's a very nice job. :)
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: s class on 05 January 2008, 02:15 AM
Thanks so much Carl, much appreciated. 

That is really magnificent. 
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 08 January 2008, 06:23 AM
OK, further update.  The centre console is now fitted at last.  It took some hours last Sunday to make sure all the gaps matched, the hardest thing was the top section under the timber trim and bending the sides slightly so that the curve of the console matched the under dash trim (See pic).  It's amazing how much more rigid it is as it's now affixed by screws instead of just sitting there.  There were no screws at all for the rear section and the top section was broken anyway so that was no use.  Now it's all repaired it has a familiar German solidity about it I find most satisfying.

I am hoping I can finish it this weekend.

Regards,

Carl.

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116109.jpg)


Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 08 January 2008, 06:49 AM
Hi Styria,

Correct, I did not have to remove the dash or the heater box.  At your suggestion, I checked the heater box foam and found it to be in excellent condition so I haven't done anything with it.  The only thing I did was to lightly grease all the linkages and control cables for the ventilation system.  The radio wiring and the repairs to the console was the most labour intensive because of the damage done previously.

Thank you for all the positive comments.

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: CraigS on 08 January 2008, 06:57 AM
As with any work of this nature, the first time is always the most time consuming. If you had to do it all over again, I'm sure you would be able to cut a considerable amount of time off it.
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 13 January 2008, 06:45 AM
Hi Craig,

Yes of course, it would be much quicker the second time around for sure.  I hope never to do it again!

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 13 January 2008, 06:56 AM
Well, was a bit pushed for time this weekend but managed to FINALLY get some stuff back into the console instead of ripping it out..

Cleaned up the fan/air con control knobs and managed to repaint the silver stripes on the bezel with a spray can of silver enamel of all things (Heavily masked of course :)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116200.jpg)

I was too smart for my own good with the self made bracket to support the radio and ventilation controls.  The top section fouled the bottom of the air con control thermostat at the rear of the switch...very annoying as I only found this out when I went to fit the switch...grrrr!

So I had to remove the centre section as per the pic below:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116201.jpg)

Anyway, the controls really fit nicely now and don't wobble like they did before:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116202.jpg)

The gear lever surround and ventilation controls are fixed and secured in their final position.  The radio and ash tray (Missing it's frame) are sitting unattached just to see what they look like for the photo.  I am very happy so far.

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116203.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116204.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116206.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116205.jpg)


Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 13 January 2008, 07:02 AM
One of the most pleasing things about the switchgear on this car is my revamped switch for the rear interior light.  Oscar supplied me a switch which enabled me to raid the retaining clamp which was missing from mine, not to mention the Becker amplifier which will ultimately go in.

And Koan helped me out with a intrument binnacle lamp holder some time back too.

Thanks to you all, 'aint this group grand?

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 13 January 2008, 07:14 AM
Just a quick explanation as to why the bracket I made has off centre supports for the ventilation controls.  It's because the mounting clamps for the Becker radio sit directly under the mounting points for the ventilation controls.  If the bracket was not off centre, A becker Radio could not be fitted.

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: OzBenzHead on 17 January 2008, 05:32 PM
Carl:  That's all looking so impressive; congratulations!

I'm curious about your white floors.  Are they painted body colour, or is the white some kind of after-market coating?

I have created a new thread titled "under-carpet insulation" so as to not hijack this thread.
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 17 February 2008, 06:48 AM
The 280 headed a little closer towards completion today, not there yet, but closer after today :)

I started from the rear, installing the period Becker speaker grilles (Thanks RobertD) on the parcel shelf.  Might need some advice from the experts here....I ordered a set of mounting screws from MBA and according to the 1974 116 parts book, they should be chrome, you can see them here:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116301.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116300.jpg)

I do like the chrome appearance, hope it's correct, anyone know?  I know the post 1976 cars were definitely black in the screw department in this area.

From there I re-fitted the rear seats and carpet after giving them a good clean.  I then went to install the front seats and remembered I had a little job to do on the drivers seat I'd forgotten about.

If you have a look at the pic of the car when I bought it, you can see the front arm rest is bent, it was leaning to the left:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280sew11621.jpg)

After removing the back of the seat, you can gain access to the mounting hardware which I tweaking in the vice with some mindless violence (After removing the mount from the seat and the armrest).  How it became bent originally is beyond me, I really had to lean on it.  Anyway, it's nice and straight now.

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116303.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116304.jpg)

Now here is where I need a little help.  Does anyone have any spare of the following fasteners?

I need two washers like this (Note, do not need the screws).  These washers are used on the plastic panels below the dash in the front footwells.  There are 3 per side.  I assume they only appear on the pre 1977 cars with the plastic trim (Not carpet) below the dash.  Please let me know if you have any spare! 

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116307.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116308.jpg)

The other thing I need is three of these spring loaded clips. They affix the trim that runs from the above plastic trim to the firewall.  Again, if you have anything, please let me know!

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116309.jpg)

This pic is with an item I'm sure you'll all be familiar with so you can see the scale:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116310.jpg)

I was so excited how the interior came up, I forgot to take any pics of the interior, I'll do so this week.

Regards,

Carl.





Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 18 February 2008, 04:25 AM
Here are some more pics of the washers I'm chasing in situ.  Don't look too closely at the last pic, see the dirt on the footrest!!!

Regards,

Carl.




(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116321.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116320.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116322.jpg)
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 18 February 2008, 04:38 AM
I took some more pics of the interior today.  All I have left to do is mount the Becker amplifer under the glovebox (Still missing the amp cradle unfortunately) and replace the missing screws for the trim on the same side as previously posted.  Then I can finally give it a good clean and be done with it!

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116323.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116325.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116326.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116328.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116334.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116331.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116330.jpg)

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: oscar on 18 February 2008, 07:48 AM
Hi Carl,

Absolutely stunning.

A couple of points.  I love how your sticking to original as much as possible.  I however thought the lower console was tarnished by that chromed toggle switch.  So I was thinking how suitable the console out of the yellow one might be once cleaned up, thinking it hasn't been butchered with extra switches.  To my surprise I found the same setup as yours.  So this toggle switch is factory?? and the other switch is a rotary fader with the hard to obtain correct becker knob, true??

(http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/1998/02182008126smalltu5.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)


Also, I have the above washers and clips too.  I might mail them to you tomorrow rather than wait till next week when I come down to Melb.  I'm sure you want to get this makeover finished asap.  IMO the washers might need their own little makeover, so to the spring clips.

(http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/4667/02182008124smallpo1.jpg) (http://imageshack.us)
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: CraigS on 18 February 2008, 09:29 AM
The trim clips are available almost anywhere - particularly upholstery supply shops.
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 19 February 2008, 04:18 PM
Hi Craig,

Yes, but the only ones I could find were black, these need to be grey.  Luckily, it's Oscar to the rescue again!!  Thank you!

And speaking of Oscar, what I think happened with the radios is this.  If you bought a 450 SEL in Australia, it came ex factory with a radio.  If you bought a 280 SE, 280 SEL or 450 SE in 1977 or later, it also came standard with a radio, a Becker Mexico for the Australian market.  This seemed to be about the time the models changed to K-Jet and had the full timber trim.  However, if you bought a 280S, 280 SE, 350 SE or 450 SE up until about 1976, the radio appeared to be a dealer fitted accessory.  I was told the wiring and speakers were fitted by Mercedes Benz Australia (Which would explain all the pre 1977 cars having the same fader and aerial switch) but the radio unit itself was fitted by the dealer at the time of sale.  All the cars with the local fitment radio appear to have the antenna mounted on the DSF wing, not the rear like the 450 SEL's and later cars.  Both the antenna switch and fader on my car have "Made in Australia" stamped on them.  For this reason, if you are being fussy, I don't think an original Becker fader knob would have been supplied with an Australian fader.  I am not sure if this is true, but it sounds reasonable from what I've seen of the early cars.



Regards,

Carl.

 
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 24 February 2008, 07:21 AM
Guess what.........it's finished  ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D


(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116407.jpg)
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: oscar on 24 February 2008, 04:34 PM
Yeah, I think I'll reserve judgement till I see it. :D :D
Just kidding

Our trip's still on, tue/wed, really looking forward to catching up with Carl and seeing this new looking w116. 
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 24 February 2008, 05:16 PM
Thanks Michael and Oscar,

I'm happy with how it's come up, but I've shown you the best bit.  Notice how I haven't shown any pics of the outside!  It's been sitting uncovered in the workshop for 4 months, it's filthy!  Maybe Oscar can give me a hand cleaning it  ;).

Look forward to meeting up Oscar!  See you in a day or two.  If any other 116'ers want to meet up, Oscar is coming to town for one night Tuesday.  The plan is to meet up somewhere in Richmond either tomorrow afternoon or Wednesday before his trip back.

Regards,

Carl.


Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 09 September 2008, 06:57 AM
Well, took the W116 out tonight, hadn't driven it for about 6 weeks, disgraceful!  I'm really happy with the car so far, except for one aspect of the interior...the bent glovebox door!

I've seen many a 116 with this issue, if you look at the pics, you'll notice the LHS of the glovebox shutline sits proud.  Looking at the door itself reveals that it has a bow to it.  Has any one ever attempted to straighten the door.............without cracking the timber?

I do not relish the thought of trying to match the veneer grain should I destroy the door!

Thanks for any suggestions.

Regards,

Carl.

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116110.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116111.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116112.jpg)
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: TJ 450 on 09 September 2008, 08:01 AM
I have heard from various sources that the spring loaded switch for the glove box light constantly exerting force against the glove box door is the cause for this. I would certainly have to agree with this observation. There are few cars that do not have this issue. If you were to attempt to straighten the door, I would first remove the woodwork, as I'm sure it would get damaged otherwise. I have noted that on my 6.9, whilst the door is warped, the timber remains straight, as someone has removed all its screws in the past. This might suggest that the timber doesn't get too badly affected by this. :)

Tim
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 10 September 2008, 06:41 AM
Thanks very much Tim for the tip,

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 01 December 2010, 05:35 AM
Okie, one last item to fix in my interior is really annoying ME!!!!!!!

I have a bent glovebox lid, the cause of which seems to be narrowed down to the switch for the lamp inside pressing on one side of the lid.

Question................has anyone tried to straighten theirs?  I am terrified of cracking the timber, the thought of matching the veneer doesn't bear thinking about, short of replacing the whole lot....

I am thinking of disassembling the lid and somehow stregthening it from behind. Any thoughts?

Thanks for any information.

Regards,

Carl.


(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEw116111.jpg)
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: wbrian63 on 01 December 2010, 08:18 AM
seeing as how this problem has crept up over several decades, and believing that the infrastructure of the door is actually plastic, you don't stand much of a chance at winning the battle at this stage.

Many MB's seem to suffer this fate eventually. My '92 300SE had this problem, and even my '02 S55 is showing the same signs.

Only thing I could suggest is to provide a more solid stop on the corner opposite the light switch, that will force the lid square when closed. Then you'll need to tighten up the clearance on the latch so the lid will be flush when closed.

Who knows, maybe the door is still available at a reasonable cost from MB?

EPC seems to indicate the parts are the same for LH versus RH drive cars, but there's a split at VIN #'s. Older cars use part 1166890183, newer use 1166890583 or 1166890683.

I'll ask Tom Hanson if these parts are still available when the sun comes up on the west coast.
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: wbrian63 on 01 December 2010, 05:19 PM
Heard from Tom - sadly, all three variations of the glove box door are NLA.

Oh well - c'est la vie.
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 02 December 2010, 04:47 AM
Thanks a bundle for looking Brian,

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: koan on 02 December 2010, 05:38 AM
What does the door look like with finger pressure on the left opposing the switch spring?

Mine is warped but it is looks OK, passable with the above pressure.

Possibly a non-OEM switch with out the strong spring and adjustment of the latch and hinges (the door can slide up and down the hinges).

koan
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 28 December 2010, 11:30 PM
Hi Koan,

The door straightens somewhat if I apply pressure from the opposing side.  I'll have a look at doing something with the switch.  What ever I do, I'm just scared of damaging the veneer.

Sometimes I wish the car was not so nice, then I'd just enjoy it, instead of trying to fix everything....

Looking forward to getting back into it in January.

Regards,

Carl.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: silentprophet on 18 January 2011, 02:03 AM
Wow. Just. Wow. It doesn't even look like that car has been outside!! Exquisite!
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 09 December 2015, 02:10 AM
Well, I just dug this up from 5 years ago, I am going to have a go at straightening the glovebox door.  Since my last post, has anyone performed:

1. A successful straightening of the door?

2. Broken it!!??

I really don't wish to break it  ;D
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: s class on 09 December 2015, 03:12 AM
I would think the only reasonably safe approach would be to disassemble it before trying to straighten it. 
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: hagar24 on 09 December 2015, 06:15 PM
Quote from: carl888 on 13 January 2008, 06:56 AM
Well, was a bit pushed for time this weekend but managed to FINALLY get some stuff back into the console instead of ripping it out..

Cleaned up the fan/air con control knobs and managed to repaint the silver stripes on the bezel with a spray can of silver enamel of all things (Heavily masked of course :)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116200.jpg)

I was too smart for my own good with the self made bracket to support the radio and ventilation controls.  The top section fouled the bottom of the air con control thermostat at the rear of the switch...very annoying as I only found this out when I went to fit the switch...grrrr!

So I had to remove the centre section as per the pic below:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116201.jpg)

Anyway, the controls really fit nicely now and don't wobble like they did before:

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116202.jpg)

The gear lever surround and ventilation controls are fixed and secured in their final position.  The radio and ash tray (Missing it's frame) are sitting unattached just to see what they look like for the photo.  I am very happy so far.

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116203.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116204.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116206.jpg)

(http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n281/carl308888/Mercedes-Benz%20280%20SE%20W116/280SEW116205.jpg)
I am restoring my 116 also, can you tell me what you seed on he floor before you put the mat down please, and did you have your dash restored?
Thanks
Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 10 December 2015, 03:21 AM
I was very lucky and managed to find a W116 that had 1. Been garaged all its life, and 2. had 92,000kms on it when it came to me.  I never touched the floor or the dash, that's as it was when I bought it.

Sorry I can't be of more help, but I have no reason to suggest the dash or the floor has ever been replaced.

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: carl888 on 10 December 2015, 03:22 AM
Quote from: s class on 09 December 2015, 03:12 AM
I would think the only reasonably safe approach would be to disassemble it before trying to straighten it.

Indeed!

Title: Re: 280 SE interior makeover
Post by: hagar24 on 10 December 2015, 12:06 PM
Quote from: carl888 on 10 December 2015, 03:21 AM
I was very lucky and managed to find a W116 that had 1. Been garaged all its life, and 2. had 92,000kms on it when it came to me.  I never touched the floor or the dash, that's as it was when I bought it.

Sorry I can't be of more help, but I have no reason to suggest the dash or the floor has ever been replaced.

Thanks for the info just the same, Nice work