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Garage => Mechanicals => Topic started by: BWalker82 on 18 May 2011, 06:27 PM

Title: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BWalker82 on 18 May 2011, 06:27 PM
Finally got the 300SD back from the mechanic, new rear wheel bearings and a refurb. power steering gearbox.  The steering is tight now, no more slop.  A little too tight in my opinion, but I won't complain.  It beats the 6" of play prior to the swap.  The clunking (that I was told was the bearings) from the rear is still present (in sharper turns/body roll)... like a metal on metal rubbing "clank".    :-\

My new Tach Amp finally came in and my RPM gauge works great now.   :D  The right side illumination also came to life when I hit a large bump last night, so that's a plus too.  I'm still thinking I need a new Hazard switch or Combo Switch (turn signal/beams) as when I activate the high beams my turn signal lamps come on on the cluster and the gauges illumination dims and flickers.  When I turn on either signal, the clust illumination also blinks.

I pulled the ACC panel out to take a peek inside, but soon felt overwhelmed and just put it all back together.  I'm searching for this infamous green line that activates that blower via switch. Not sure where it is if someone is familiar.  I don't think my blower is operating, but I do hear servos whir to life when I activate different buttons on the panel.

Aside from the citation I received on my joy ride/road trip, I feel confident the car is starting to come back to life after years of storage.   Next up I need to replace engine strut/torque struts and the mounts and then definitely a valve job.  After that, it's all the bs stuff like vacuum locks and ACC.

Cheers!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: thysonsacclaim on 20 May 2011, 05:59 PM
In the last week:

1) Wash, wax and wax again.

2) Scrub, clean, pressure wash and degrease wheel wells in prep for POR-15 coating + hard nose enamel (black). They had a old undercoating which was coming off.

3) Same as above for underside of hood.

4) Clean fuel level sender.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 20 May 2011, 07:07 PM
Where to start...  Been mostly working out the ACC.  It was low on the list but it started interfering with engine shut off  :-\

I think it is going to be OK.  Now if it remains reliable...

I actually think my entire vacuum system is functioning pretty close to perfect  :D

The power lock system blew my mind  ;D  I had no idea it locked the fuel lid and trunk the way it does. Spooky quiet too  8)

I haven't really done anything with the ALDA and lines that go to the transmission. (I'm guessing it's the modulator?)  It seems to shift OK for now but I plan on going through the transmission checklist. Engine performance seems OK as well.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Arockz1 on 21 May 2011, 03:16 PM
Hello I have a 1980 300SD- could you explain a bit more on this noise you have?

Thank you.

" The clunking (that I was told was the bearings) from the rear is still present (in sharper turns/body roll)... like a metal on metal rubbing "clank".   
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BWalker82 on 21 May 2011, 03:26 PM
It seems that when a rear wheel needs to travel up or down (cornering or a bump), there is a metal on metal sound.  It's as if one piece of metal is turning whilst striking/rubbing another metal part.  

It's a hard noise to explain.  Definitely has the resonance of a moving part though.  As if something metal were rubbing against the wheel/rim, during the cars biased squat in a corner, or going over an uneven surface that raises the wheel.

I will try to peek under there this afternoon.  It's too bloody hot right now to accomplish anything.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Arockz1 on 21 May 2011, 03:43 PM
I have a noise "cluck" with the same movements " SharpTurning" into the driveway or backing out and onto other uneven pavement. But I hear it in the center of the car or body I think. I have had the upper and lower bushings replaced, and other front end work and the transmission mount replaced. I have not touched the rear sub frame bushings or rear trailing arm etc or shocks.

Thanks for your post!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BWalker82 on 21 May 2011, 03:50 PM
Quote from: Arockz1 on 21 May 2011, 03:43 PM
I have a noise "cluck" with the same movements " SharpTurning" into the driveway or backing out and onto other uneven pavement. But I hear it in the center of the car or body I think. I have had the upper and lower bushings replaced, and other front end work and the transmission mount replaced. I have not touched the rear sub frame bushings or rear trailing arm etc or shocks.

Thanks for your post!

I was thinking the same: rear trailing arm or shocks.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 21 May 2011, 04:12 PM
I had my rear sway bar end links go out and it made a terrible noise when cornering.  Easy and cheap fix  ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Janse on 21 May 2011, 04:39 PM
Found a puddle of oil on the floor under the engine today... but it is probably just a bad gasket in the servo pump. Still working on the cooling for the carb, looks like it will come together next week, also my little issue with the oil pressure sensor. We are having a spring meeting in the lokal Mercedes Club on the 28th of may so I am hoping to get my car ready by then.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: jbrasile on 21 May 2011, 06:13 PM
1980sdga is right with regards to the noise from the rear suspension, from the description of those with the problem the sway bar links are usually the culprit.

Tks,

Joe
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: thysonsacclaim on 21 May 2011, 07:21 PM
Yes those sway bar links sound HORRIBLE when they break, often rubbing on the rim.

Mine were bad and I got the most awful sound backing out of my driveway, which is is sloped.

The ones with the plastic bits with blue collars seem less sturdy and I had no idea what to do with the collar part; not sure if it was just for shipping as they wouldn't go on with them attached and no instructions about it.

Cheers
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: scraf on 22 May 2011, 01:45 AM
Right at the moment a helpful chap is replacing an axle for me, car sounds like a horse galloping on tiles when going slow with four people in it, hardly any problem when I'm in it alone.

With weight in it I've also had to stop accelerating around right hand bends on the motorway, makes my driving style somewhat inconsistent.

Will know tonight if it was the correct fix. 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: UTn_boy on 22 May 2011, 04:40 AM
Today? nothing other than fill its fuel tank up again.  Yeah, it gets 12-14 miles to the gallon, but it is so nice to drive.  It turned over 66,000 miles the other day, and when the odometer read 66,006, the alternator light came on. :-/.  It's the original one, and I already replaced the rectifier once, so I think a new one is in order.

In the last six months this is what i have done.  I replaced all the front end and rear end bushings, ball joints, etc, new steering coupling, all new steering and idler arm bushings, new motor mounts and engine shocks, new set of michelin tires, new head light doors and turn signal lenses, new amber fog lamp lenses, (the clear ones are pretty much useless), new brake lines, master cylinder, and brake booster, I put new horse hair pads in both front seats and the rear as well, replaced rear glass seal and front glass seal, new water pump, rebuilt a/c compressor, new drier, cleaned expansion valve, (the new ones you get are unfortunately calibrated for R-134 A), flushed the system, put fresh mineral oil back in it, and filled it with a fresh 2 pounds of R-12.  (for those of you reading that remember the a/c talk you had with me, I did do the evacuation correctly, haha).  Let's see, I also took three climate control servos I had lying around and made one good one,  new amplifier, Installed a Becker Mexico Cassette, new speakers, new trunk seal, new tail light seals, cleaned and polished tail lamp lenses while they were out, new grill insert and trim mouldings that go on it, new hood star and rosette, new grill badge, cleaned and painted all four wheel wells while suspension was out, cleaned and painted inside and outside of steel rims, repaired vacuum actuators in doors and replaced the trunk lock actuator, new cruise control cable, changed out carburtetor to one that has no warpage, cleaned door jambs and greased door hinges, re padded perforated panels on door panels, replaced fuel tank, new fuel pump, all new belts, hoses, fluids/filters, adjusted valve lash and renewed tappet cover seals, new timing chain and tensioner, new crankshaft seal, new battery, new windshield washer pump and reservoir, new hood pad, new driveshaft center support bushing and bearing, new flex disc (front and rear), resealed differential, new differential mount, new exhaust, gutted catalytic converter, polished all anodized aluminum (came out looking like new by using 3M rubbing compound), cleaned and polished inner fender wells in engine bay, cleaned all vacuum hoses and wiring in engine bay, new shift linkage bushings and shift gate housing bushings, renewed bushing on kick down rod that goes from accelerator linkage to transmission, new Bilstein shocks all around, removed the transmission and renewed the torque converter seal, front pump seal, and output shaft seal, and last but not least, a good cleaning on the inside.   Even the wood looks new, no fading, hazing, or cracking.  All the carpet, even in the rear glass area, as been covered up its whole life.  I still have the original coco mats, too. The blue MB tex is flawless, and even the center console isn't faded too bad.   

I did every bit of this work with the exceptions of tire mounting and front end alignment. Having said that, you get really emotionally attached to the car and learn its personality.  I wanted to sell it, but found that doing so was a really hard idea to swallow.  The thought of someone else driving and owning my 280s not taking care of it like i would sickened me.  This is really interfering with my purchasing a W108 280sel 4.5 that I have wanted for ten years.  So I suppose I'll have to keep the W116, and in addition buy my W108. 

I drive my 280s almost daily, and it'll go anywhere I need it to, locally or nationwide.  I almost have the car perfect in every aspect.  All that needs attention now is the paint, but that is another $5,000 at least.  You ask yourself, "So where do I stop?".  It'll always be something, new or old.  It's been a long and grueling 6 months, but It was so worth it, and having automatic climate control that works perfectly in a W116 is so unusual, but very satisfying. haha.  Hope all of you are doing well.  take care, AARON
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Big_Richard on 22 May 2011, 06:15 AM
I washed my car today.  8)


VERY overdue.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: koan on 23 May 2011, 02:30 AM
Ordered a new number plate for the front and screwed the old one back on temporarily. I managed to close the tilting garage door with the car too far forward, the door came down and ripped the plate clean off, the plastic mounts survived but they are now a touch distorted after being pulled out of the slots.

And put $115 of petrol in the beast.

koan
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: WGB on 23 May 2011, 07:34 AM
Today - paid the mortgage to get them dry and cosy.

Bill
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Type17 on 23 May 2011, 08:19 AM
I left it in its parking garage, which saved it from sitting in the horrendous traffic jams in my area (I live about 700m from the US Embassy in Dublin, and Barack Obama is visiting Ireland today, so there are road closures/diversions everywhere you turn), and which also saved it from enduring the gusty winds which are flinging twigs and small branches at cars and everything else - note the windy weather if you see coverage of their visit.

PS: The presidential car got stuck on the steep ramp out of the American Embassy in Dublin, and the President had to switch to the back-up car, and leave by the other gate - Video (http://www.rte.ie/news/av/2011/0523/media-2963651.html)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: calvin streeting on 23 May 2011, 08:37 AM
I cleaned and polished mine. also fitted a new fuel filler drain hose (some one cut through the old one when welding up the boot well).

calvin
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: toxonix on 23 May 2011, 02:46 PM
Took off the trunk lid, stripped the front right brakes down to the spindle and replaced the rotor, repacked bearings, cleaned and repainted vent cover and removed the old caliper. The pads were down to the steel. These calipers are no good, so I'm ordering refurbished calipers, new lines and replacing the old hard lines.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 23 May 2011, 07:54 PM
Quote from: toxonix on 23 May 2011, 02:46 PM
Took off the trunk lid, stripped the front right brakes down to the spindle and replaced the rotor, repacked bearings, cleaned and repainted vent cover and removed the old caliper. The pads were down to the steel. These calipers are no good, so I'm ordering refurbished calipers, new lines and replacing the old hard lines.

I need to do my bearings. Is it just the standard castle nut/ cotter pin arrangement?  Any tips?

I drove my 116 another 200 miles today  ;D  She's gotta go about 150 miles tomorrow then another 175 miles home on Wednesday.

So far so good but my ACC amp went out again  :-[
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: KenM on 24 May 2011, 05:59 AM
That's a funny clip Type 17, surely shows a poor lack of pre planning on the part of the secret service or whatever they're called, you would think that almost anyone would look at that hump and think, 'hump, long car, it ain't

gonna happen...'
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Type17 on 24 May 2011, 06:10 AM
The Embassy don't use that gate normally, but the long, thin (and very full) car park meant that they couldn't turn the long cars around, so they decided to use it. The slope on the normally-used gate is much shallower  ;)

Apparently, Obama and Michelle were in the other car, behind the stuck one, so they were reversed out the other gate and drove by a few minutes later.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: thysonsacclaim on 24 May 2011, 10:32 AM
That car is nuts, I wonder what it weighs?

I've read a little about it years ago when Bush was in office, but apparently they do a new car for every President. The old ones are now to be used for testing purposes / explosives tests.

They keep a blood bank in the trunk of the President's blood type as well as a first aid kit full of what you might expect from a combat kit (morphine pads, transfusion kit, anti-coagulants, cipro and other antibiotics) as well as a closed supply of oxygen.

The plating is at least 5 inches thick.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: toxonix on 24 May 2011, 12:53 PM
Quote
I need to do my bearings. Is it just the standard castle nut/ cotter pin arrangement?  Any tips?
No castle nut, key washer or cotter pin. It's a split nut with a locking bolt. I was kind of taken aback by the lack of ant-turn mechanism on this bolt. Under or over-torquing this locking bolt could be catastrophic, as its the only thing holding the front hub on. This bothers me a little.

The bearings are like most other cars. An outer bearing, larger inner bearing and dust seal. Check the spindle and bearing races for brinelling. They should be perfectly smooth. Over-tightening, sitting or dust seal failure can destroy the bearings. The dust seal surface at the base of the spindle should be clean and free of pitting.
I clean hub, bearings and spindle completely, removing all grease and dirt in the parts washer before repacking with high temp wheel grease.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 24 May 2011, 06:43 PM
Quote from: toxonix on 24 May 2011, 12:53 PM
Quote
I need to do my bearings. Is it just the standard castle nut/ cotter pin arrangement?  Any tips?
No castle nut, key washer or cotter pin. It's a split nut with a locking bolt. I was kind of taken aback by the lack of ant-turn mechanism on this bolt. Under or over-torquing this locking bolt could be catastrophic, as its the only thing holding the front hub on. This bothers me a little.

The bearings are like most other cars. An outer bearing, larger inner bearing and dust seal. Check the spindle and bearing races for brinelling. They should be perfectly smooth. Over-tightening, sitting or dust seal failure can destroy the bearings. The dust seal surface at the base of the spindle should be clean and free of pitting.
I clean hub, bearings and spindle completely, removing all grease and dirt in the parts washer before repacking with high temp wheel grease.


Wow! no fail-safe at all?  How do you set the pre-load?

I've done a lot of wheel bearings and it sounds as if we do it the same way.

Thanks for the info!

Oh yea, I drove my 116 165 miles today  8)  I want wipers on my headlights...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 25 May 2011, 12:29 AM
Preload is set simply by turning the clamping nut only. I just do it by feel. You don't want it too tight obviously.

Yes, there is no absolute failsafe mechanism. As long as the clamping bolt is tightened properly, all should be OK, and ideally these ought to be replaced with the bearings I would've though.

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: koan on 25 May 2011, 03:48 AM
Quote from: TJ 450 on 25 May 2011, 12:29 AM
ideally these ought to be replaced with the bearings I would've though.

I've got a couple of front wheel bearing kits, in each are both bearings, the cap and seal, they come with a new bolt for the clamp but not the clamp itself.

koan
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: skatinblind815 on 25 May 2011, 02:16 PM
Hmm.. In the last 2 weeks I have:

Completely disassembled and reassembled,  cleaned and my rear view mirrors.

Installed a new fully functioning AAV. ;D

Ran speaker wires for rear speakers and wires to the trunk for subwoofer. Which also included vacuuming out all the old dust and dirt which was under all the seats and carpets.

Reattached my climate control console to the wood that surrounds it.

Top of all engine fluids, and last but not least...

wash and wax.

It's almost summer :-)



Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: caleboar on 25 May 2011, 03:20 PM
In the last month I have:

Installed new distributor cap, rotor, spark plugs, wires, coil, and condenser wire. Also, new entire stainless steel exhaust from Timevalve and new catalytic converters. New wipers (bosch evolution) and Rain-X on the window. I've never used this product before, we'll see. Removed cluster, padded to remove road rattles and trimmed speedometer cable to reduce "flickering". New sheepskin seat cover from Shear Comfort. Clean grime off of air intake and buttefly valve. New antenna mast.

Today I'm planning on flushing radiator and refilling with original MB fluid.

I have been looking into new tires but have been a bit stumped. I can either find well-known brands (Michelin, BFG, Falken) that offer tires in S or T rating, or lesser known brands like Maxxis and Doral that offer an H rating. I'm not sure which way is the better way to go. I like to corner hard around city streets.

Also on my list is checking the vacuum system for leaks.

BTW, I think utn-boy wins this category.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 25 May 2011, 05:16 PM
Drove it about 150 miles today.  Maybe I should ask "What has your W116 done for you today?"   ;D

About 600 miles in 3 days on less than a tank and a half of fuel  ;D

Gonna check the fluids and head out again tomorrow...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: jjb-w116-hu on 25 May 2011, 08:21 PM
UTnboy - which of all of that fantastic work made the biggest difference to driving/steering ?
ive got new bilsteins alround as of last week and there is still a bit of boating going on . i do know i need a new steering coupling which i am waiting on...  thanks, JJB
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: HKDP on 27 May 2011, 12:19 PM
My dear 1977 450SE gave me a stroke at the petrol station today......174 euro's full tank...thats uhm $230, I blame Libya.
But I took her to power wash, had a relaxing ride home and waxed and polished......

You don't need bling you need a 450.....
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Type17 on 27 May 2011, 12:44 PM
Washed it, clay-barred the bonnet (hood), polished the brightwork, waxed the paint, and then removed the radio to find the source of the single stereo channel - dry solder joint on the amp circuit board - sorted  8)

Ready for a car show in Limerick on Sunday.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 31 May 2011, 08:17 PM
New tie rod end links/sleeves installed.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: WGB on 31 May 2011, 09:38 PM
Quote from: HKDP on 27 May 2011, 12:19 PM
My dear 1977 450SE gave me a stroke at the petrol station today......174 euro's full tank...thats uhm $230, I blame Libya.

It will cost about AUD$140 (US$150) to fill my 6.9 with 98 Octane if near empty.

Bill
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 31 May 2011, 09:49 PM
It costs me about $60 to fill up my diesel.  Diesel is about the same price as premium here.

You blokes are getting raped!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: jjb-w116-hu on 31 May 2011, 10:21 PM
gentlemen i concur - i was stunned when the 96octane (prem) to fill up my old girl the other day came in at 183$ NZD. someone, somewhere is seriously taking the p1$$ (to quote local terminology)....

:'(
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: jbrasile on 01 June 2011, 12:02 AM
US$174.00 to fill up here in Sao Paulo Brazil.... and that's for regular (about 87-90 octane I think...) gas....

Over the weekend I swapped the door strikers from the left side front to back to cure an annoying squeak, problem fixed but the upper  nut plate on the rear door fell inside the fender well!!! What a nightmare to get it out, rear seat had to me removed and finding / retrieving took about 2-3 hours. Ideally these should be replaced after 33 years but they are a bit pricey so will leave it for the future.

Tks,

Joe
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: jjb-w116-hu on 01 June 2011, 12:46 AM
will the old girls run happily on 91 gas?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: thysonsacclaim on 01 June 2011, 03:11 AM
Quote from: jjb-w116-hu on 01 June 2011, 12:46 AM
will the old girls run happily on 91 gas?

Where do you live again?

Mostly going to depend on compresson. I'm not sure what the MFG said about the lower compression models (USA, esp later USA etc), but you could probably escape using mid-grade. Mine ran fine on 87 (pre-valve job, with gasket leak).

However, if you're in the US, the differece between filling with reg versus super is maybe $5-$10 on a whole tank.

The other reason to use super is that (in the US anyway), the top tier gas usually has more detergents in it. These cars are old, and the injection systems, valves, etc are sloppier than in brand new cars because they are not as precise. I do believe the cleaners make a bigger difference in older cars.

At XOM, our tankers of reg come in plain Jane tankers. However, when we get the load of super, it comes in a special tanker because it is more than nominally different. It cannot be sent to another brand station. Mid grade is often made by blending Super and Regular.

One more thing: the cost of using an octane booster with regular or whatever isn't usually worth it (in the US) versus using super because they are typically $4-ish a bottle. (ie the price of regular gas + booster is about equal to super gas on a total fill up). Of course, if the motive is to boost octane above the top gas available, or as a routine monthly cleaning, that may be different.

This may or may not hold true in other countries.

Gas is about $3.669 per gas / 3.78 litres for reg here in FL atm.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Hemersam on 02 June 2011, 12:00 PM
Had a local upholstery shop (small business) replace the MBTex on the drivers left side bolster (nice, big hole in it---watch what you put in your pockets!) and replace the Tex around the edge of the seat back. Nice job. I think I may sell the 280SE (unless my grandson talks me out of the car), so I've got to fix the "little things."
Hemersam
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 02 June 2011, 03:27 PM
I'd like to see some pics of your upholstery!

I got a front-end alignment...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: jjb-w116-hu on 02 June 2011, 07:48 PM
well after Koan's headsup on where in heck the trunk light was, new bulb for that and new rear window chrome clips, rivets and catchs so i can finally replace the old rear window and importantly gasket ! no if only i could decide whether to tint or not the glass before i put it in and of fit an after market window demister haha!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: timinoz on 02 June 2011, 08:35 PM
Hi,
First time poster. Long time listener.
I recently picked up an insanely clean 78 280 SE with only 185,000 k on the clock.
This site has been awesome for tips.
Today I changed over the voltage reg after completing the interior detail & 20 hours of polishing. (I own a car wash & detailing centre  ::)).

Cheers for all the info guys.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: WGB on 03 June 2011, 12:57 AM
Quote from: 1980sdga on 31 May 2011, 09:49 PM
It costs me about $60 to fill up my diesel.  Diesel is about the same price as premium here.

You blokes are getting raped!

I assume you have the smaller tank in the diesel - petrols have 95 litres.

Bill
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 03 June 2011, 07:27 AM
Quote from: WGB on 03 June 2011, 12:57 AM
Quote from: 1980sdga on 31 May 2011, 09:49 PM
It costs me about $60 to fill up my diesel.  Diesel is about the same price as premium here.

You blokes are getting raped!

I assume you have the smaller tank in the diesel - petrols have 95 litres.

Bill

Must be. It takes about 18 gallons to fill up when she's really low.  I try not to let it get too far below 1/4 tank.

I still haven't figured the marks near empty (Or R) out and I'm scared to run it really low and see if the low fuel lamp works  :P 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: thysonsacclaim on 03 June 2011, 08:28 AM
QuoteI still haven't figured the marks near empty (Or R) out and I'm scared to run it really low and see if the low fuel lamp works  Tongue 

You might be able to test it by pulling the sender out and turning the key to run.



I know I posted here the other day, but this morning I am calling the shop to check on my heads. It's busy here with race season ramping, so machine shops and what not can get backed up because of custom job (porting / polishing, etc). Besides NASCAR, there's a huge industry in small tracks, too. I was talking to one of my State Trooper friends who does security detail for the races, fairs / shows, etc and he led me to some tracks where I'll be able to run my car once I get everything back together. Best believe I want to test top speed out without getting a $2000 ticket for going 50 MPH over the limit  :D


Anyways, today if the heads are in I will spend the next three days putting stuff back together. I'm quite excited, but taking it slowly. I've got some cans of POR 15 & back and metal flake top coat coming in so I can do some rust treatment & prevention in the bay and elsewhere.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: toxonix on 03 June 2011, 01:53 PM
I *almost* got it started after valve job + top end seals + bottom end gaskets + new fuel lines. There is still some air trapped somewhere in the fuel system, because I don't seem to get anything out of the injectors yet. I've bled the air from the fuel distributor by cranking with the lines open, then shut those one by one as they bled out. Then opened the injector ends of the lines and did the same thing. Still bubbles and occasional air pockets, but the fuel pump is pushing strong.
Can't get the key to crank the engine, have to use a jumper from the batt. terminal.
Removed the sunroof and interior for paint prep work.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 03 June 2011, 06:31 PM
Quote from: toxonix on 03 June 2011, 01:53 PM
I *almost* got it started after valve job + top end seals + bottom end gaskets + new fuel lines. There is still some air trapped somewhere in the fuel system, because I don't seem to get anything out of the injectors yet. I've bled the air from the fuel distributor by cranking with the lines open, then shut those one by one as they bled out. Then opened the injector ends of the lines and did the same thing. Still bubbles and occasional air pockets, but the fuel pump is pushing strong.
Can't get the key to crank the engine, have to use a jumper from the batt. terminal.
Removed the sunroof and interior for paint prep work.

Not speaking from experience but... I've read that it can take a LOT of cranking to get the air out.  I guess you adjusted the valves?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: toxonix on 08 June 2011, 05:04 PM
Yes, I adjusted the valve clearances with the newly lapped-in valves. I haven't cranked it for very long at any given time; the battery can only stand about 10 turns before it starts giving up. The battery was not charged over the winter, so it's probably not holding a full charge.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: john6007 on 08 June 2011, 08:51 PM
I'd be carefull of continuous use of the starter motor, most are not designed for that and may damage the internal wiring (heat build up).
I know its not quite the same, but on my aircraft its 30 sec on 60 sec off, 30s on 60s off, 30s on 30 minutes OFF but I have abused car starter motors in the past.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 08 June 2011, 11:33 PM
Put the old Becker in  ;D  Earlier this week I changed the center support bearing on the driveshaft and installed shifter bushings.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 13B on 09 June 2011, 01:43 AM
Went for 2 hr lunch with 3 of the ladies from work.

:-)

I.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: WGB on 09 June 2011, 03:11 AM
Only Lunch Ian ::)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: HKDP on 13 June 2011, 03:46 AM
Quote from: WGB on 31 May 2011, 09:38 PM
Quote from: HKDP on 27 May 2011, 12:19 PM
My dear 1977 450SE gave me a stroke at the petrol station today......174 euro's full tank...thats uhm $230, I blame Libya.

It will cost about AUD$140 (US$150) to fill my 6.9 with 98 Octane if near empty.

Bill

No Fair.... I'm moving....Gas prices dropped but they're still 1.60 euro per liter, about $2.40 per liter.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: john6007 on 16 June 2011, 05:06 AM
Clocked over 360,000 k's today
Had the 450 down the big smoke (Perth) for a few days, she had her favourite drink (98 RON) then ran 100+ K's back to the country home for a quick wash and back to sleep in the shed.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: George on 10 July 2011, 12:49 PM
Since I got my car two weeks ago the radiator has been drinking daily water.

Could only trace clouds of steam, decided to clean the radiator Mercedez style with the de-oil and de-lime, then I took her off to see if I can spot the leak.
Bottom line, some surgery and some epoxy and now she's dry and happy and she can finally hold some antifreeze again.


Cold start issue drove me nuts. Studied some online cases. Finally found an explanation on fuel running back down the fuel line. Tested the fuel accumulator/fuel resevoire and it was just wizzing fuel out the back end.
Now to find a replacement.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: George on 10 July 2011, 12:51 PM
Quote from: George on 10 July 2011, 12:49 PM
Since I got my car two weeks ago the radiator has been drinking daily water.

Could only trace clouds of steam, decided to clean the radiator Mercedez style with the de-oil and de-lime, then I took her off to see if I can spot the leak.
Bottom line, some surgery and some epoxy and now she's dry and happy and she can finally hold some antifreeze again.


Cold start issue drove me nuts. Studied some online cases. Finally found an explanation on fuel running back down the fuel line sounding more like my situation. Tested the fuel/pressure resevoire and it was just wizzing fuel out the back end.
Now to find a replacement.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 10 July 2011, 04:01 PM
I've been in the sweltering heat, enduring oppressive humidity trying to fix my air conditioning.

Hopefully it's like a penance...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Casey on 11 July 2011, 10:48 AM
Quote from: 1980sdga on 10 July 2011, 04:01 PM
I've been in the sweltering heat, enduring oppressive humidity trying to fix my air conditioning.

Hopefully it's like a penance...

I'm right there with you with broken front windows as well.  Thank goodness there's a sunroof.  I've just been viewing driving as a visit to the sauna - I'm sure I'm getting some health  benefit out of all the sweating.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: George on 14 July 2011, 07:14 AM
Finally figured out how to depress the cylinders to change break pads last night, Oh and I finally found a working secondhand fuel accumulator.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Casey on 14 July 2011, 08:16 AM
Is there something special about these cars I should know about?  I've got new brake pads on the way...and was hoping to install them myself.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: George on 15 July 2011, 04:51 AM
Was used to my little echonomy car where you could just depress the cylinders with two screwdrivers.

Only thing that was new here was it has locking pins that just needs to be knocked out and in.

I struggled with this monster pressure system but then I remembered someone mention a C-clamp. There's two spots on each pad side where you can fit a hand vice clamp or perhaps a C-clamp, so if you have two of these the job is real easy. Depress one pad at a time using the two clamps at the two ends, gradually adjusting the clamp settings. You need this as the cylinders needs to be FULLY depressed before you can get the new pads in. Use the existing pads to clamp the cylinder all the way back before you take them out.

Remember to undo the break fluid tank cap and maybe siphon some out in case you might overflow it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Casey on 15 July 2011, 05:43 AM
Quote from: George on 15 July 2011, 04:51 AM
Was used to my little echonomy car where you could just depress the cylinders with two screwdrivers.

Only thing that was new here was it has locking pins that just needs to be knocked out and in.

What do those look like and how do you knock them in/out?  Do you have a picture by chance or did you find a guide online?

QuoteI struggled with this monster pressure system but then I remembered someone mention a C-clamp. There's two spots on each pad side where you can fit a hand vice clamp or perhaps a C-clamp, so if you have two of these the job is real easy. Depress one pad at a time using the two clamps at the two ends, gradually adjusting the clamp settings. You need this as the cylinders needs to be FULLY depressed before you can get the new pads in. Use the existing pads to clamp the cylinder all the way back before you take them out.

I've got lots of C-clamps, and am familiar with this process on other newer cars - only thing that threw me off was a Mustang where you have to twist the cylinders, as clamping will never get them to budge.  Never needed to open the brake fluid cap before though.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: George on 15 July 2011, 06:05 AM
It's in the online manual of awesomeness http://handbook.w116.org/matrix6.htm

For me to get there I navigated: the 280SE - year 80 - Continue - Chassis and body manual - 42 Brakes,hydraulic and mechanical - more - 106 Replacement of break pads.

The pins is like the pins used on most cars accept that they are secured by just being knocked in as upposed to a surclip or some or other device.

Just use a small screwdriver or rod that would fit the holes to knock them out and make sure they are in all the way when you replace them.

The manual has a special tool, a modified hand vice with flat jaws but using two normal vices on the ends of the pads worked for me.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: mswcpt on 15 July 2011, 07:01 AM
@ my mechanic's at the moment:

1. Steering box overhaul
2. Had master and slave clutch cylinders replaced with new parts.
3. LHS passenger door mirror fitted with new glass.
4. Carb overhaul.
5. 4 New tyres.
6. New front discs.
7. replaced bonnet insulation (was making a BIG mess in my engine bay)
8. new handle for front passenger seat upright adjuster
9. Heater system overhaul.
10. Engine clean

8)

In pipe-line - new aircon compressor, genuine MB bundts.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: WGB on 16 July 2011, 09:35 AM

[/quote]

I've got lots of C-clamps, and am familiar with this process on other newer cars - only thing that threw me off was a Mustang where you have to twist the cylinders, as clamping will never get them to budge.  Never needed to open the brake fluid cap before though.
[/quote]

I compress my caliper pistons by gently removing the pins ( An old nail does this quite well and is softer than a pin punch)  and then sqeezing a medium sized screwdriver between the exposed bit of backing plate top and bottom that does not have pad bonded to it. Slide in the the tip of the screwdriver so that it is not just compressing the outside edge and alternating pressure top and bottom making sure that the shaft of the screwdriver is on the disc and the tip of the screwdriver is pressing on the pad.

When a bit of a gap has developed I move the screwdriver to the centre of the pad and using the point of the screwdriver into the pad material and lever off the disc until the piston is fully home - repeating for each side.

If a piston is either seized or moist with fluid  the calipers will need rebuilding.

Take great care with the fragile pad wear harness connector where it bolts onto the caliper and give it a very wide berth - never lever off it or it will cost you a new caliper if you want to keep the car original after snapping of the mounting titty.

The pad retaining pins often break their spring ends and one or other may need replacement and I use new pad wear sensors and either M-B brake paste or newer brake specific silicon anti squeal on the top and bottom edges and backs of the new pads top prevent squeal.

If you have topped up/replaced brake fluid with the pads partially worn you will have to watch for overflow and remove some before it does making sure that nothing that goes into the brake fluid has the slightest contaminationm with oil - this includes dirty fingers but the master cylinders are designed to slowly go down to safe limits as the pads wear and magically fill up as the pads are replaced .

Bill
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: jbrasile on 16 July 2011, 11:02 AM
It is also possible to use a pair of vise grip pliers to compress the pistons, you grab at the tip of the pad and caliper flange, squeeze a little, then tighten the pliers, squeeze some more until the pistons go as far in as possible. I then remove the first pad, turn it 90 degrees and use it as a lever with friction material facing the disk to push the piston as far as it will go. This ensures the disk is not scratched or damaged.

Very important: remove one pad at a time, compress, install the new one and go for the next pad, if you remove both pads and push the piston in, the opposite side will move and become super hard to push back.

Tks,

Joe
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: RB450SEL on 20 July 2011, 12:12 AM
Well, I have just finished replacing the tires, all the shocks, the upper control arms up front (a bit of a trick in a driveway,) all the brake pads and brake pad sensors, the front rotors, the electronic ignition box, the battery (Optima = happy,) reupholstered and re-stuffed the seats without the compressed horse hair, added a vinyl dash cover (for now,) serviced the alternator, and tomorrow, will replace all the spark plug wires, spark plugs, distributor cap and rotor. It has been firing on just seven cylinders with a gasoline smell from the non-firing No. 1 cylinder. Maybe the taped spark plug wire on the No. 1 plug was telling me something.

In the process of removing the air filter, broken vacuum lines were revealed and repaired. Since 1976, things can get brittle.

I might end up spending $2,500 on this thing, parts and purchase included. It had LOW miles and working air conditioning as purchased.

Did find Visonik is still in business, and one way or the other, the Visonik David 5001s are going in this car. The cabin quietude deserves recording studio quality sound. My last Mercedes, a 220 gas, had the original Visonik Davids 33 years ago. I have never heard, in any car since, audio of that quality. I work, and work with others on motion picture soundtracks amongst other things. Skywalker Sound and I mix on the same studio monitors.

Funny, the old license plate read MUSICBZ. I kept it.

Richard
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: George on 20 July 2011, 01:17 AM
Sounds sweet.

Busy doing an engine clean for a road worthy test, repaced reflectors and got some emergency triangle's.
Hehe.. found a first aid kit that I could fit in the back first aid box. I like that, and got a fire extinguisher in case they start complaining about any leakyness as a last resort.

Going to browse the benz yard for a replacement winshield water bottle pump, some rubber bushes and possibly some good oil cooler pipes.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: brettj on 20 July 2011, 09:20 PM
I had the transmission seals and crank case seals replaced, oil and filter change , transmission fluid and filter change, transmission vac modulator replaced, brake fluid change, radiator flushed and new coolant, new idler arm bushing. Currently in the shop for cam shaft replacement which has turned into a nightmare as the new cams were installed but now the car does not run! My mechanic is still trying to solve that problem.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 20 July 2011, 11:52 PM
Scrubbed my evaporator some more...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: RB450SEL on 21 July 2011, 12:59 AM
Today installed new distributor rotor, rotor cap, all spark plugs and spark plug wires. The smell of gas has about vanished, as all the cylinders are now firing properly. The car starts in 2 seconds instead of 4, a testament to eliminating a lot of corrosion and installing high end spark plugs.

Also installed very nice cupholders in the center console. By the company who does the ones for BMW, but these are niftier, designed to self-contain any leaks/spills/sweating cups as well as to hold BIG drinks for road trips. Two of them fit nicely behind the shifter. Not exactly stock, but a welcome upgrade.

Also replaced the electrical connection to the aux fan temp sensor, as it broke in removing the air cleaner and cold start system. Simple fix.

Still need a bit of adjustment on the belts, a good alignment, and some more bushings work.

Just happy to get the thing running solid for the road. Not quite perfect, but beginning to get nice.

Oh, another Visonik/Audio shout out:

Soon to order the Visonik David 5001i speakers directly from Visonik in Germany. These are the ONLY speakers which do justice to the superb audio environment of the Mercedes. They have no competition from any other manufacturer. They are recording studio quality, used in mobile studios in Europe, and after having them in my original Mercedes 220 gas back in 1979 (yes, they have been around forever, going through upgrades,) I have never heard a car audio system even remotely as good. I've heard a LOT of them, and they're all weak somewhere, often plenty loud, but muddled. Super high end audio has been a thing with me for decades. I am sitting in front of Miller and Kreisel 2510s as I type, but listening to my ambient audio by Orb Audio, which, after the break-in, combined with a sub, are well above average. Not for 115dB rock and roll mixing (like the 2510s) but fine for multi room cross stereo ambient up to maybe 90dB. For the ultra clean, the Magnepans are, well, still in storage, as I have no space here which will fit them properly.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gavin116 on 21 July 2011, 01:28 AM
Hi RB,

Could you post some pictures of the new cup holders?  I am waiting on new HT leads myself.  I have not ordered a new dizzy cap though.  What sort of mileage had you done on your old dizzy cap, and what was its condition like when you replaced it?  I think I might have to give Joe another shout.  (Looks like Joe will be able to send all his kids to uni at this rate! He,he...)

Regards

Gavin
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 21 July 2011, 04:39 AM
RB450SEL,

Are you mounting the mini monitors in your car? ;)

I too would like to see the cup holders. I really need to invest in some, as I have become quite accustomed to them in another vehicle.

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: jjb-w116-hu on 21 July 2011, 06:23 PM
how much are these visonik speakers? i would love to replace my fronts ;)
that be some well old paper in tharr....
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: RB450SEL on 06 August 2011, 03:23 PM
As to the cup holders, which fit perfectly (two of them) in the 450SEL center console tray, here is the link:

http://www.ultimatecupholders.com/fischercupholder.html

I'd provide a picture, but after a dozen attempts, it does not seem to work. Must be a PC Internet Explorer thing. I'm on a Mac.

What is great about this cupholder: if you ever leave a cup which LEAKS, it only leaks into the base of the cup holder, not all over your car. When you see the animation on the site, keep in mind, when you see the thing open, THAT is the side which is mounted. The OTHER lid opens to reveal the cupholder. The mechanical action is so cool, you will find people playing with it. It holds BIG drinks and small cups.

Currently, Europe is on holiday, and so you cannot contact Visonik. By mid September, they should be back in business.

http://old.visonik.de/en/david.php

In the picture on that page, the speaker on the far right shows the "Handle Bar" which is the mounting bracket. You need the speaker with the handle bar. The sound is astonishing, especially if you have audiophile taste. The Davids should cost in the neighborhood of $300 US the pair, more if you buy from a dealer, of which there are only a few, and only in Germany. There may be importers elsewhere, but the high end nature of the speaker will jack the price.

If you are 18 years old and listen to distorted bass music on twenty million watt ready for the trash sonic garbage subwoofers, buy from your local retailer.

Visonik Davids were in my 1976 Mercedes 220, and one person who heard them wanted to move into my car to live. These monitors live in recording studios, mobile studios, and radio stations. Nothing you can buy as "car audio" will compare BECAUSE it is "just" car audio.

Visonik Davids in a Mercedes instead of a home or studio was the brainchild of an esoteric audio store in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, in the late 1970's. The fact the David still exists, nearly 40 years later, attests to having got it "right." They tell me it has been improved. I removed top of the line recently installed "car speakers" from the back and even re-did the hat deck, ditching the first aid kit compartment to make a smooth, freshly OEM Mercedes carpeted hat deck to accommodate the Davids. For me, everything old will be new again. And a new first aid kit goes in the trunk, away from the sun.

BTW - it is tragic how cheap the Mercedes stock hat deck really is. Skimping on a luxury car... tsk tsk. You can use thin plywood for a huge jump in quality. You also need padding FREE carpet, and the Mercedes carpet, padding free, is still available in most colors. It is important to realize the carpet must OVERHANG front and back past the edges of the (new) hat deck. At the window, the carpet tucks UNDER the molding, and in front, folds BEHIND the rear seat.

As to the front speakers, just buy something high end which fits. Not much quality audio comes from such a speaker, as it is kind of small. With the Davids, you just add presence in the front and let the quality stand out from the back.

Also recharged my air conditioner, which was blowing barely cool. The problem: this was an R12 system, and I did not want to hassle with R134a conversion. The answer: a different ozone safe coolant which can live on top of, or in place of, R12, which also features a larger molecule so as not to leak so easily as R12.

http://autorefrigerants.com/co00033.htm

See the "Industrial 12a" which is nothing short of amazing in terms of ease of use and performance.

I bought the six pack with a charging hose. Delightful air has returned, including the automatic features. All working perfectly. Need to get a non photo thermometer to test the base temp. My photo thermometer pegs at 60 degrees F.

Someone asked as to my mileage. It is about 50,000, but the car was kept in the sun... Still a great find for $1K. It's an "only in California" type vehicle which took 2 years to find. It was owned by someone in the music biz.

Well, next, it's fixing the oil leak.

More details soon.

Richard Brown







Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BWalker82 on 06 August 2011, 07:40 PM
Today I used my 300SD turbo diesel to winch my Ford F150 4X4 out of a small ravine.  If I only had a picture/video of the action in motion; What a sight for sore eyes it would be.  What a highly versatile car its turned out to be.  More comfortable than my SL320 on the highway (due to bent rim).  Sips diesel, saves 4X4's, and is quite a sheer pleasure to drive. 

I guess my new question  to you all would be... What has your W116 done for you today?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: RB450SEL on 09 August 2011, 12:09 AM
Today, we rolled the car up onto a ramps, and tackled my oil leak, which was centered on the lower oil pan. Removing it, we found no evidence of a gasket or any other sealant. No wonder it leaked. We cleaned the removed pan cover (after my assistant finished his "clean," I hit it with PEC-12 (borrowed from the photo industry) and finished the job where the new gasket was going. We then sandwiched a Victor Reinz gasket between layers of high temp sealant/adhesive, and reinstalled. Will be testing tomorrow after finding ourselves about two quarts low on oil on the refill. 

Also, my new hat deck was delivered by a local car legend, who built the new one based on the old, finding the original Mercedes carpet in the right color, and hung around to supervise the install. We are leaving it a bit unfinished waiting for the Visoniks to arrive. a minimalist installation, hole drilling wise, is desirable.

We have two more parts to install prior to smog testing and getting the tags reinstated. The first arrived today, the new nylon bushings for the shifter linkage along with its install (compression) tool. The next should arrive in a day or two, a pair of rubber bushings for the steering chain, as I know, like most of the others we've scene, they are going to replace dried up and crumbled existent bushings.

I had a very sloppy steering wheel, but am happy to report the replacement of the completely dead steering damper with a fresh one took out a LOT of the play in the steering wheel.

My friend, the local auto legend (think working with Chuck Barris back in the day, and doing interior installs for the big three U.S. auto companies for TV and print ads for decades, and now doing only custom work for himself and others) took a look at my cracked dash and suggested an attractive fix with crack filling and vinyl wrapping which will make the dash both look new, and due to the toughness of auto grade vinyl, a good look that will stand the test of time.

Tomorrow, maybe, the passenger front seat goes back in complete with iPad holding articulated carbon fiber arm.

Got to get some tinting done as well.

Well, back to my adventure travel advertising work.

Will report again.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: hi ho on 09 August 2011, 08:18 PM
Since my 4x4 is out of commission I've been relying on the 450 as the daily driver for the last 1.5 months.

I was mentioning to a friend the other day the car must be female - you wake up in the morning not knowing what you're going to get...some days she's gorgeous to drive - others a bit of a bitch...

The other night it was raining, I turned right onto a freeway on ramp she went about 20 metres and the engine stopped, I sat there with hazard lights on in the rain feeling frustrated and embarrassed as trucks and cars went around me. After several tries it fired up and I got her home. Fuel - I thought.

Next day I got underneath to check out the fuel pump and found the protective box had gone - yep - just gone! I figured the problem was the pump and electrics were getting hammered by water and grime so I installed another box and the car has behaved herself over the last week.... cross fingers
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: jjb-w116-hu on 09 August 2011, 10:30 PM
they are something like females these classics , ignore them, dont drive them - they'll certainly show you they missed you.
treat them right and look after them, and they'll return the favour.
of course somedays its just 'bad side of bed day' and all rules are out the window. hopefully not a window stuck down in the rain thanks to a bad regulator ;)

But really, would we drive anything else? i"ve driven my friends' CL55 and a E55 AMG Kompressor and i love both those cars but nothing is as unique as sunny chrome days by the water .....
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gavin116 on 10 August 2011, 01:48 AM
Here, here. 

I second those last two posts.  No only is Mrs White female, but going by her name, she's an ol' lady too!  Hopefully all the moodiness will be magically waved away by the Mercedes specialist workshop where she will be staying for the next few days/weeks.  I hope to get the fuel assembly and related componentry renewed in its entirety, get the aircon recommissioned, and a good service.  I have also asked them to look at any MOT failure things, as this needs to be renewed in two months time.  May just as well get any issues sorted now.

I will be re-installing her cruise control amplifier when that comes back from re-soldering too.  I will then busy myself with installing the new MB door, boot and tail light seals.  After that I might install a new audio system.  Currently listen to music loaded onto the TomTom playing through its built in miserable speaker.  Can't get more retro than that!

Keep on 116ing

Gavin
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Casey on 10 August 2011, 05:42 AM
I have a hard time envisioning my W116 as female with it's larger, more aggressive chassis.  The W115 and W123 on the other hand, seem more feminine, especially the coupes for some reason. :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Type17 on 10 August 2011, 06:05 AM
Quote from: Raptelan on 10 August 2011, 05:42 AM
I have a hard time envisioning my W116 as female with it's larger, more aggressive chassis.  The W115 and W123 on the other hand, seem more feminine, especially the coupes for some reason. :)

Agreed, my wife says that when you look at a 116 and listen to it, it can only be male...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: hi ho on 10 August 2011, 06:35 AM
 have a hard time envisioning my W116 as female with it's larger, more aggressive chassisssis

It's the 116's temperament that conjures the female personification.... (although after a few beers, my 450 starts to look really good:-)

Sorry, getting off the topic (Maybe an interesting separate topic)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BWalker82 on 14 August 2011, 08:48 AM
Changed oil and filter today and set the injection idle pump to a little lower setting.  I previously raised it but 1200-1300 rpms at idle just seems to high esp. for an oil-burner.  The oil change has made cold startups much easier with no help needed from the pedal now. 

My window is now stuck down and keeps blowing fuses when I try to raise it.  It's been doing this before but only when raising it.  If you release the switch in the past before it gets seated at the top, the fuse would blow.  Now it's just blowing it all the time.  I'm thinking I need a new motor.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Casey on 14 August 2011, 04:23 PM
Quote from: BWalker82 on 14 August 2011, 08:48 AM
My window is now stuck down and keeps blowing fuses when I try to raise it.  It's been doing this before but only when raising it.  If you release the switch in the past before it gets seated at the top, the fuse would blow.  Now it's just blowing it all the time.  I'm thinking I need a new motor.

Maybe your regulator is warped.  Take it all apart and check it / lubricate things!

Check out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-hmch7hXRA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRY9-ydbup4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5da-nqJT52E
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: cp361 on 24 March 2012, 08:20 PM
Today I removed the carpets from the car and vacuumed the used the hoover carpet cleaner. My carpets are original pad is still in good shape. The corners were curling up in places so I set my iron to steam. Placed a towel on the ironing board and another towel to cover the area I wanted to get the curl out of. Then I laid the carpet flat and placed some weight on it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: JasonP on 24 March 2012, 08:26 PM

Today I opened the sunroof and a window and removed some carpeting, to let the car air out and breathe. We have had rain for a solid week, and yes, my car leaks. Today was sunny and in the upper 70's, so it got a chance to breathe.

My Green Machine also aired out a little, but as there is no battery in it, I just popped open a few doors for a half hour to let the breeze through.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Kjhall65 on 24 March 2012, 11:50 PM
Today I displayed the car in a local car show along with about 35 other Mercedes and about 1000 other cars  ranging from a T model Ford through to a Lamborghini Diablo and most things in between   
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: albe on 24 March 2012, 11:57 PM
Today I backed it out of the old shed and had a tinka with the K-jet ,she needs a good tune and service leads as well . Open the doors up took some pic's of the seat cover's I just fitted last week after sewing them up here's a link ..
forum.w116.org/interiors-and-exteriors/albe's-280-sel-''-interior''/ (http://forum.w116.org/interiors-and-exteriors/albe's-280-sel-''-interior''/)
Its been very wet here in Redcliffe so let her air out for a bit and let the motor run for a while .
Not on the road yet if it was today I would have been driving my w116  ::)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Big_Richard on 25 March 2012, 04:03 AM
.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Type17 on 25 March 2012, 04:15 AM
I got around to sticking the corner of the mat under the bonnet (hood) - tip: I wrapped a few old pillows in a former bedsheet and closed the bonnet on it overnight. The mat is now perfectly stuck. Tomorrow, I'll be doing the other corner.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v463/Type17/2012/d2a3d69e.jpg)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: JasonP on 25 March 2012, 04:24 AM

Let us know if that reduces the sound in the cabin! Mine has no hood mat, and most of my noise seems to come from wind coursing through dried out door and window seals. Interestingly, though, when driving on a wet and rainy day, the cabin was unusually quiet.  ???



Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Type17 on 25 March 2012, 02:34 PM
Well, it always had the original mat (it was just hanging off at the corners), so I don't know what the sound would be like without it, but my first car, a Mk1 Golf (Rabbit in the US market), had no mat, but the diesel models did, so I got one in a scrapyard and fitted it to mine (easy, as they're attached using clips in the holes on the bonnet-strengthening spars, rather than being glued on like the MB ones) and it did make a noticeable difference, so I'd say that it might improve things for you. As far as I can see, the V8/V6 Mercedes seem to have a mat, but the inline engines don't - I presume that MB tests have shown higher sound volume/resonance from the centre of the 'V' or something...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: albe on 26 March 2012, 05:26 AM
Not sure on that Type17 I have a 280 SEL and it has a bonnet mat as do most of them I have seen . Maybe on the later model's, 1980's on. But can't comment on that as I don't know. And today I gave my w116 a pat on the boot . :P
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 26 March 2012, 05:46 AM
All variants of the 116 had bonnet/hood mats from the factory. 8)

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Type17 on 26 March 2012, 06:02 AM
Yes, I was talking about Mercedes generally, rather than just the 116's.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: nathan on 26 March 2012, 07:55 AM
ill get the thread back on track as i worked on a 116 today for the first time in a while.
was at dads house, and he asked me to fit the new window regulator to the front door of the red 6.9.  this was a parts car but dad is starting to get itchy restoration hopes for it - it actually only has 190,000km on the engine.  dad insisted we take the windows out to fit the regulator, which had just been tinted (i envisages them being scratched to hell). i told him it didnt need to happen if you undid the motor from the regulator and slid each past the window track.  this was a bit trickier than i remembered and probably took longer than just removing the window and its guide track, but ill be damned if my dad is gonna be right! it eventually went in ok. dad has also bought all the new slides and clips for the bit where the regulator joins the window, and also the white plastic bit in the vertical guide rail. it goes a treat now!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 02 April 2012, 05:53 AM
Today I did something naughty with one of my 116's and gently but gracefully tore up a nice flat paddock with it.....

Not too many revs but she was surprisingly good on grass and dirt sideways.... and a bit of opposite lock and right foot steering did her well as she was absolutely purring when I was done.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Big_Richard on 02 April 2012, 04:53 PM
.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 02 April 2012, 10:13 PM
LOL No wabbits, just Hares...............

Jenn actually commented that it looked rather graceful and then suggested I should rally one...........

I did give it some thought and I do have a 280S...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Kjhall65 on 02 April 2012, 11:08 PM
I was hoping to change the steering box but the planets didn't align and it will have to wait till after Easter.  So I just put the mats back in the front now they have dried out after driving the car in the rain the other day.  Must get the windscreen rubber replaced as well at some stage.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: albe on 03 April 2012, 07:59 AM
   Not much to tell waiting on part's or should say money to buy parts . But have got new rotors to fit  when I get new pads .  And today I give  my w116 a nice bath and rub down with the wool pad by hand .
I must say that washing her is rewarding  just looking at it as I detail make's me think how nice she really is .  (http://gallery.w116.org/dl/37798-1/P3244699.JPG)
Looking forward to driving this car so much .
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: albe on 06 April 2012, 05:55 AM
Well today I put the new rotors and pads in the rear every thing was working well and in good order . I put one front rotor on and got the pad size so I can order them next week they are not so easy to do but done now and other side should be easy,now that I know what to do . Had a small upset when I opened the drivers door and hit the jack (what a dumb ass I am :( ) the car has gone 34 years without anyone doing this till I did .Very upset hope the dint man can get it out . But the brakes are almost done and it rolls now as old pads were sticking .Very happy  :P 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 06 April 2012, 06:01 AM
Oh no... Opening a door onto the jack is very easy to do as well.

I removed the engine from the red 280SE today, and the car is pretty much ready to go to the scrap yard.

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: albe on 07 April 2012, 04:53 AM
Was not very happy with my self the car is so straight and then jack strike  :-[  But I still love it , put the blanket back on and car cover she's in bed (shed) :D. next week . .  will finish the brake's
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ckamila on 07 April 2012, 11:40 PM
I have spent the last several days chasing down the rust. Repainted brake booster, air cleaner (missing some paint and rust on lid), headlight covers rusted int/ext and metal water lines for heater core.


(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/38096-3/Rust+work.jpg) 


Then i found a lovely surprise, i nice crack in my servo. It was working but sometimes seemed not to blow warm air. Don't know haw i missed that crack before when i read the date scratched onto the face. Time to chase down another one???


(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/38100-3/servo+crack.jpg)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: cejpat on 11 April 2012, 04:39 PM
Threw out the dusty crust musty floor mats (not the carpets) and replaced them with fair trade Persian rugs.

My 6 y.o. clapped her hands saying, Daddy, we've got magic carpets.

I prefer the vibrant colors too ;-)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: mswcpt on 13 April 2012, 02:49 AM
Back today from another session with mechanic:

1. New break pads and discs - Thanks S Class for the very reasonable price and excellent service!
2. New left, right and centre tie rods.
3. Heater core hoses replacements/overhaul. Complete flush of coolant system and fluid/coolant renewal.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 13 April 2012, 08:39 AM
Quote from: cejpat on 11 April 2012, 04:39 PM
Threw out the dusty crust musty floor mats (not the carpets) and replaced them with fair trade Persian rugs.

My 6 y.o. clapped her hands saying, Daddy, we've got magic carpets.

I prefer the vibrant colors too ;-)

I'd have to say I like the idea of the Persian rugs as floor mats.

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1980sdga on 13 April 2012, 06:23 PM
Quote from: TJ 450 on 13 April 2012, 08:39 AM
Quote from: cejpat on 11 April 2012, 04:39 PM
Threw out the dusty crust musty floor mats (not the carpets) and replaced them with fair trade Persian rugs.

My 6 y.o. clapped her hands saying, Daddy, we've got magic carpets.

I prefer the vibrant colors too ;-)

I'd have to say I like the idea of the Persian rugs as floor mats.

Tim

I'd like to see pictures.

@ Ckamila: With all the work you've done I'd go with an aluminum servo and a new/ rebuilt amp.

OT, I drove my 116 about 300 miles today  8)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: cp361 on 14 April 2012, 11:13 PM
Replaced the fuel return lines... I use bio-diesel and I noticed that tell tale weeping or leaching thru the fabric of the old braided lines. I looked at them after removing and saw cracks in the rubber ends. Today I also replaced the front door seals fairly straight forward except I had been reading about a C bushing or something holding the rod on the door check strap in place that needed to be removed and my car doesn't have them ..it did throw me off a bit. I just tapped the rod that holds the door check strap in place on the body side and wiggled the rod out. Did drop the plastic bushings in the grass and lost track of them for awhile but did find them eventually. :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: geospine on 15 April 2012, 12:11 AM
Valve Job gave me way smoother top end performance. (technically earlier this week)
Replaced/updated crankcase breather hose and grommets.
Installed temporary boost pressure gauge... Pressure seems good ~10.5 psi @ 4000 rpm.
Looking for a replacement FL window regulator.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Kjhall65 on 15 April 2012, 03:28 AM
Today she got a new steering box, steering damper and bushes in the cross member.  With a wheel alignment during the week, that pretty much completes the front end refurb she has been going through over the last month or so.

I did find that one of the engine mounts has collapsed so that will be the next thing to tackle in the coming weeks.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1974450SEL on 19 April 2012, 06:03 PM
I replaced the battery with a OEM size (HUGE) battery for 113.00.  She's running good and I've been enjoying driving to work this week.  I have been riding my motorcycle but decided to drive her this week.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: cejpat on 20 April 2012, 08:11 PM
here are pictures of the persians

drivers side
http://www.flickr.com/photos/76267949@N08/6951614988/in/photostream/lightbox/

passenger side
http://www.flickr.com/photos/76267949@N08/7097684305/in/photostream/lightbox/

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Type17 on 21 April 2012, 03:55 AM
Changed the oil and filter - around 8 litres  :o
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 21 April 2012, 08:12 AM
Done nothing to my 116's but my W124 230TE has copped a new sound system and I've fixed the rear interior lights, Ciggie lighter and gave her an oil change........
edging closer to half a million Km too!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: UTn_boy on 25 April 2012, 11:08 PM
Oh lord, lets see.  Last month I buckled down and did a lot to my 280S.   I replaced every piece of rubber on the rear control arms and rear sub frame. I renewed the rear differential oil.  I replaced the torque converter seal and front pump o-ring on the transmission.  While it was out, I replaced the reverse band, as the original had a crack in it. New filter and oil for transmission, too. I also replaced the front carrier bearing and installed a new output shaft seal, too.  I repainted my rocker panels, polished my hubcaps, flushed the brake system, changed engine oil and engine coolant, Removed my starter to clean and repaint it, cleaned all of my wheel wells so they show off the original Astral Silver Metallic that they should, I cleaned the underside of the floor pans and transmission tunnel while transmission was out, new water pump and front crankshaft seal for good measure. New belts, topped off the A/C system, (and I use R-12), renewed all of the small screws under the hood that hold various things to the inner fender wells and fire wall, (the old screws had lost their yellow zinc luster), polished the fuse box lid and other various plastic pieces under the hood, polished paint under hood on inner fender wells and frame, put the correct Gemi radiator hose clamps on.  Now.......I need a new carburetor.  Unfortunately, I don't have the $3,000 to do it.  And yes, I would actually pay that to get rid of the headache of the one that I have now. haha.  The next reasonable thing on my 'to do' list are all new door seals and new windshield seal (Mercedes brand, not aftermarket) .  I am very pleased with how well this one has come along.  Though, it helps to start with an original 59,000 mile rust free example.  I now have 71,000 miles on it, and I drive it on long road trips (5-10 hour drives) regularly.  So much fun!! Comfortable, too! When we're easily able to post pictures on here, I'll  post pictures.  Until then, I shan't bother trying to figure out how to do it.  ;-) 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Kjhall65 on 28 April 2012, 04:09 AM
Today the 450 got new engine mounts, rear brake hoses and new bushes in the gear selector.  I also installed a new temp gauge sensor but unfortunately the temp gauge is still reading about 15 deg high.  It's not the connections or the sensor so next stop is the gauge itself.  I was hoping I wouldn't have to get into the instruments.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: JasonP on 28 April 2012, 07:34 PM

Today I washed my green parts car - a 1979 300SD. Then I wiped down the interior with a moist towel, and dried it, to get all the dust and dirt off. Both were a "first pass" at cleaning it since I bought it about a month ago - the car has been sitting with a seized engine for seven months. I roll it back and forth about once a month to mow the car port.

Last weekend I took the glove box from it and put it in my daily driver. Tomorrow, weather permitting, I am going to take the shut-off valve from the hose that sends hot water under the dash, and install it on mine. It looks to be like a 10 minute job.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: albe on 29 April 2012, 12:40 AM
Today I put a used power window switch in and hazard switch .Found a parts 450 se on the sunshine coast that was good for a rear seat as well .Will pick it up next week and get it to the trimmer ,looking forward to seeing it go in as this will finish the inside off and I can work on the motor and getting a r.w.c and club registration .  ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: cp361 on 03 May 2012, 11:29 AM
Back from the shop new front windshield gasket installed as I was starting to get water inside. It was raining good for the drive home and she remains dry as a bone!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Kjhall65 on 04 May 2012, 07:48 AM
Today she had a wheel alignment to finish off the front suspension and steering refurb.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Kjhall65 on 05 May 2012, 08:12 AM
....and this morning I replaced the gear selector bushes.  Looks like the previous owner couldn't be bothered to get new bushes so he used garden hose and washers instead :(
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 05 May 2012, 09:16 AM
Quote from: Kjhall65 on 05 May 2012, 08:12 AM
....and this morning I replaced the gear selector bushes.  Looks like the previous owner couldn't be bothered to get new bushes so he used garden hose and washers instead :(
That sort of repair is not uncommon as owners go to great lengths to avoid paying "$2" for the bushings. :o

However, I must add that I did a similar thing on my 6.9 as a stop-gap measure until I ordered the new ones.

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: cejpat on 05 May 2012, 11:43 AM
replaced the motor mounts, replaced the air cleaner bracket & turbo hose this past week ...

have & this week installing the following:

Monark Diesel Fuel Injector Nozzles
Driveline Center Support Overhaul
Differential Rubber Mount
Rear Subframe Mount
ALDA Pressure Line

...

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: bbnlv on 06 May 2012, 06:48 PM
Tried to put a radio in it and found the following:

After a 3 hour drive to LA the Amp on my Kenwood was fizzling out so ordered a new deck.
1.  Thought it was plug and play until I realized on the front left and front right pre amps were running the entire car.
2.  Front left running both front speakers, front right running the rear all wired into the thumb wheel control on the center console. (No wonder the amp was fizzling out after a 3 hour romp down the freeway with the stereo blasting.)
3.  Running all new wiring so all four channels can be utilized and removing the wiring to the antiquated thumb wheel.
4.  Found a million broken bits that will be replace while its apart.
5.  Found factory cell phone antenna wiring from 1979 in the Mercedes loom.  (Craziness)
THIS HAS TURNED INTO A TWO WEEKEND PROJECT MINIMALLY....... 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: koan on 06 May 2012, 08:09 PM
Quote from: bbnlv on 06 May 2012, 06:48 PM
THIS HAS TURNED INTO A TWO WEEKEND PROJECT MINIMALLY.......

That's OK, something like that would take me 6 months...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1974450SEL on 08 May 2012, 02:44 PM
Been there, done that with re-wiring everything and removing from center fader knob (loads of fun..).  I had plans to restore the old Becker but decided, even with it restored it is still 30+year old technology and a newer deck still sounds better so I gave up on that and put a new Sony deck.  No amp yet though.  It took me one weekend to do all of this.  Also had to run a constant wire to the battery (for the radio settings) with it's own fuse.  I've had this setup for over a year and still going good.  I miss the looks of the old Becker but the better sound is worth the change. 

Quote from: bbnlv on 06 May 2012, 06:48 PM
Tried to put a radio in it and found the following:

After a 3 hour drive to LA the Amp on my Kenwood was fizzling out so ordered a new deck.
1.  Thought it was plug and play until I realized on the front left and front right pre amps were running the entire car.
2.  Front left running both front speakers, front right running the rear all wired into the thumb wheel control on the center console. (No wonder the amp was fizzling out after a 3 hour romp down the freeway with the stereo blasting.)
3.  Running all new wiring so all four channels can be utilized and removing the wiring to the antiquated thumb wheel.
4.  Found a million broken bits that will be replace while its apart.
5.  Found factory cell phone antenna wiring from 1979 in the Mercedes loom.  (Craziness)
THIS HAS TURNED INTO A TWO WEEKEND PROJECT MINIMALLY.......
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: cejpat on 15 May 2012, 07:45 PM
New motor mounts and balanced Monark injectors installed. Car is incredibly smooth.

Now saving up for a Myna injection pump or one modified by Black Smoke Racing.

Mechanic pronounces I've got the best diesel Merc for 200 miles  :o
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jakob on 16 May 2012, 02:22 AM
I discovered a rust hole in the inner sill, just above the front right jacking point.  I also noticed that the underlay/sound deadener was soaked (time for a new front windscreen rubber) so I ripped it out, expecting some horrors.  I was very pleasantly surprised to find no rust anywhere else!  Fixing the current hole might turn into a long term plan to replace the inner and outer sills.  In the mean time, deoderised fish oil perhaps?

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: albe on 17 May 2012, 08:43 AM
Well put the rear seat in that I got .And will have to wait for new seat skin down the track, leather will be nice  :D. Still with seat cover on it looks fine .  (http://gallery.w116.org/dl/38619-1/101+001_001.jpg)
next is the new speaker wires to run ya.  ::)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: cejpat on 17 May 2012, 09:26 PM
Recharged the AC with R12 and then a little insurance with a seal leak and ester oil = wow

The temps go down to 45 degrees Fahrenheit from 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: cejpat on 23 May 2012, 01:45 PM
replaced the old cracking front windshield seal with a brand new OEM seal from the MB classic center ... was told no rust or water. hurray for not-so-small victories.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: albe on 27 May 2012, 02:42 AM
This weekend I have run new speaker wire to bypass the fader switch and put new speakers in sounds ok but will get better speaker down the track sony are not so good  :(. Put the last new rotor on the front and taking calipers to work to rebuild and fit new pads  . Fixed my idle screw as well .Hope to put rego on it in the next week or so .Cant wait .P.s Have order my personal plates too Sel116 eruo plates Ya  :P
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 28 May 2012, 09:53 AM
I concur, Sony car audio has always been pretty average. No idea why, the corporation surely has the R&D to make something good.

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: scraf on 28 May 2012, 12:47 PM
Just in time for summer, from 4 non-working windows to 4 working windows !

( OK the two front ones need a polite outward nudge when going up )

... and as a bonus for 10 the heater's suddenly started working.  ???
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gordonm on 31 May 2012, 02:59 PM
Did an oil and filter change found the oil filter collapsed it probably comes from using the oil conditioner (read oil thickener) I used to stop the engine smoking.
Now having the heads removed to renew the valve guides and service the valves still considering a full engine overhaul more checks required.
gordon
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: albe on 06 June 2012, 06:26 AM
Booked mine in for a tune up ,and got it on the road last week so have been up the coast for a drive and to Brisbane  . Very happy with this car rides like a dream so so happy its on the road .And just order a new steering coupling will make it feel even smoother .Can't wait to see what the mechanic thinks and how it will drive after a good tune . :P
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Kjhall65 on 17 June 2012, 04:58 AM
Bought a complete K-Jet fuel system to replace the LPG system and bring the car back to original.  I took it with me to the donor car from which we liberated the fuel system.  Gee I love driving he 116 on he highway.  It is so effortless and the ride incredible for a 36 yr old car.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 19 June 2012, 05:18 PM
i ordered me a trunk seal , washed the 350 and filled it up for €120,- euro petrol and €55,- euro L.P.G     

greetings : john  .                                                                                                                                                                                 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: djetronicista on 29 June 2012, 12:11 AM
I have added a coolant catch can noticed I had to constantly replace fluid and newer cars had an extra plastic tank built into the fender,  By doing so also increased the capicity of cooling system.  Runs alot smoother, and cooler now amazing how little things can improve the system overall.  Had the radiator serviced/ roded out in preparation for the summer gets pretty hot in socal.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: john6007 on 29 June 2012, 09:27 AM
well today the 6.9 suspension did a full workout.

4 mostly big guys, 30km to the bottle shop.

add 13 cartons of beer for the return trip,up to an indicated 160, temp around 80 and the ride was all normal and height all good.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 29 June 2012, 05:12 PM
I've had the 450SEL out of the barn for a tubbo and further rust inspection and she has been started and left warm up 4 days running now.

65 Celsius and a quick run up to the service station for a drink and then back home again on a permit.

A mere 14 km to town and back but its all up hill on the way in so she has to work a bit.

Im still finding little bits and piece that need my attention and it is amazing what you find running over the car with a sudsy microfibre mit over your hand.

Im almost tempted to "Clay" the car and give her a wax!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: oversize on 30 June 2012, 09:56 PM
I love your avatar djet!!!!   :D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ckamila on 01 July 2012, 12:12 AM
Installed the vacuum pump i have had for 6 months, installed the motor mount pads i have had for 2.5 years, two new engine shock top mounts with new rubber bits at bottom - shocks were good. Need new right heat shield. Pulled the old compressor.


chris
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Big_Richard on 01 July 2012, 12:16 AM
.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 01 July 2012, 04:07 AM
Yobutey!

Barn find piccies MT!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: cejpat on 03 July 2012, 07:50 AM
Oil gauge was a little jumpy and there was a nailing sound.

Changed pre-filter after running 2 bottles of Lubro Moly's Diesel Purge + cetane booster to the tank.

Nailing gone.

Changed oil + filter.

Changed air filter.

Oil gauge back to normal.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: r5149 on 04 July 2012, 06:53 PM
This last week I removed all the door panels on my 116. From the looks of the plastic moisture seals, they had never been off!  I lubricated the guide rails & every moving part on the regulators with Bosch distributor lubricant. Let me tell you that those power windows go up & down like they did at the factory in Stuttgart, 33 years ago.           Such a beauty, I love my 116!!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: albe on 09 July 2012, 05:53 AM
This weekend I lowered my ride (hard job with out the right tool's) so it sat better on the 20'' rim I put on this week and also fixed(replaced) the driver's inside door handle ,no more bumping the door open .
this is before
(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/39122-1/n8+570.jpg)

and after
(http://gallery.w116.org/dl/39126-1/n8+574.jpg)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Beastie on 18 July 2012, 05:36 AM
I just got done changing the oil & filter for the first time since I bought it. First time I've ever done it on a W116. I reckon it was easier on this car than it is to do on the W108, that's for sure! The filter is much more accessible.

(http://imageshack.us/a/img844/3416/14912y.jpg)

The old oil was thick and black and mingin' and in bad need of changing. I feel good now that it's done. 8)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 18 July 2012, 05:13 PM
Good choice!

Especially with high Zinc which is an excellent lube in older pre unleaded engines.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: JasonP on 19 July 2012, 06:58 PM


Today when I got home, after driving in 100+ degree temps on the highway for my half-hour commute, I let the engine idle for 3 or 4 minutes before shutting it off. I have read that this helps the turbo cool down more gradually. I don't know if this is true or not, but it seems to make sense.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 19 July 2012, 07:58 PM
Yes its true, this practise more extends turbo seal life and protects from heat soak even in low blow turbos as it allows the engine oil to cool somewhat in circulation which draws heat away from the turbo housing itself providing the cooling system is up to scratch.

3 to 5 mins is a good example.

tony
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 20 July 2012, 08:27 AM
Turbo cooling issues are more of a problem with petrol engines (actually it's a big issue).

It certainly wouldn't hurt to let it cool down a bit though.

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 08 September 2012, 06:33 PM
Had two rusty corners around the sliding roof, so I've popped the rust bubbles, got rid of all the loose rust then treated the rest with a rust converter. After a while I've wire-brushed it to clean shiny metal, put a high-zinc primer, some aluminium enriched putty to fill the pits and then sprayed it all to cover. It doesn't look even half-decent (the spray can is original icon gold, the car isn't), but will get the car through to when it'll be treated to a full body restoration next year.  Oh, and there's three new sunroof seals as a bonus.

Here it is: job in progress (https://s3.amazonaws.com/MB450SE/repairs/sunroof_corner_repair.jpg).

Then I've changed the coolant, from green (whatever it was) to blue (ethylene glycol), but I'll need to properly flush the whole system with citric acid at next change.
Surprisingly enough, I've drained the 350SE donor yesterday before getting slowly to removing its engine, and it also had green coolant. Anyone know what the green stuff may be based on?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Big_Richard on 08 September 2012, 08:12 PM
.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 09 September 2012, 03:09 AM
Its the PH thats important
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: JasonP on 09 September 2012, 06:52 PM

I replaced a fuel return hose!  :D

http://forum.w116.org/mechanicals/replaced-a-fuel-return-line-on-300sd/

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: hi ho on 10 September 2012, 01:30 AM
I replaced the water pump
I also made up a short concise pictorial of it for my future reference
just thought it may help someone else....

(http://i1237.photobucket.com/albums/ff461/hiho3/WaterpumpReplace150.jpg)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gavin116 on 10 September 2012, 03:58 AM
Hi, hi ho

Nice write-up and pictorial(especially since I share the M117 engine). When I did the coolant and hoses on Mrs W, there were only three that I didn't replace: the two heater supplies, will still do, easy job, and then that whoppingly expensive water pump to engine block hose. Now that I know you don't have to take the entire water pump and dizzy off to do the job, I may well get stuck in at some point (I have the new hose and hose clamps in the loft). Would you have to replace the seal on the top section of the water pump if you pulled it apart, or is that not necessary, kind of similar to when you pull the thermostat housing, in that there isn't a seal/gasket?

Thanks for sharing,

Gavin
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Big_Richard on 10 September 2012, 04:44 AM
.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 10 September 2012, 12:12 PM
Yes not bad at all Hiho,

BTW I have a couple of those upper housing gaskets and intake manifold gaskts if you want them.

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: hi ho on 10 September 2012, 06:57 PM
Would you have to replace the seal on the top section of the water pump if you pulled it apart, or is that not necessary, kind of similar to when you pull the thermostat housing, in that there isn't a seal/gasket?

Thanks Gavin

Some time ago I took off this top section to check if it was leaking and replaced it with goo only (ie no gasket) it didn't leak. This time around I bought a new pump (doesn't come with top section) and thermostat from Rockautos - it came with 2 gaskets for the pump and an o ring seal for the thermostat housing (A$133.00 delivered). I used the gaskets and o ring with the goo. (be aware thermostat housing to bottom hose is only available new as a genuine part from MB - around $100.00 I recall)

Cheers hiho
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1974450SEL on 05 October 2012, 09:18 PM
My windshield wiper transmission finally gave out after the 2nd time of replacing some dry rotted o-rings between the linkages.  I had bought a spare a few years ago and decided to put this one in.  The prior owner of the spare had cut the wire so I was going to remove the motor from the spare and just change out the transmission but realized I had to move the linkages to get to the removal screws so I decided to splice the cut wire and attach it to mine.   I used high quality metal crimps for the wires since this area is prone to rain coming through.  It works very well and the wiper are quite a bit faster.  Only bad thing, a few years ago when I fixed the original the first time, after re-installing it I put the wiper arms back on and  forgot to have the wiper blade on when it sprang back and busted the original windshield on the passenger side.   I have not replaced it yet but will when I have some extra funds.
    My next project is to replace some steering parts: tie rods, steering dampner, and idler arm rebuild. 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ZCarFan on 16 December 2012, 01:09 PM
I've been getting sidetracked for the last two months but I finally drained the 2-3 year old gas from the '78 280SE  and changed the filter.  The most awful looking stuff came out and it did not smell anything like gasoline. Amazing that it ran at all.   If the rain lets up today I'll fill it with some fresh gas and see how that improves things.

Looking forward to compare the driving experience against the 300SD.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: WrightSounds on 16 December 2012, 02:51 PM
On my '80 300SD I just changed the ignition tumbler. It was sticking pretty bad and I feel like such a responsible adult that I took care of it before the key got totally stuck. I also changed both fuel filters and the air filter. The in-line filter was GROSS. Next up is changing some light bulbs (my "reverse" taillight bulbs are out as is the gear shift light). After that I'm going to try the contact cement trick ( http://forum.w116.org/interiors-and-exteriors/central-locking-vacuum-element-recovery/ ) to the rubber diaphragms of my fuel flap and trunk lock actuator thingy's since they're definitely not holding vacuum.
Title: Is this a W116?
Post by: adrockj on 21 December 2012, 12:08 PM
I found this car last month broken down with a blown transmission. It was so beautiful that couldn't help buy it! My title says 1973 280SEL 4.5.  Is this a W116?? Can anyone help me figure out what it is? Thanks!! - Adam
Title: Re: Is this a W116?
Post by: Squiggle Dog on 21 December 2012, 12:35 PM
Quote from: adrockj on 21 December 2012, 12:08 PM
I found this car last month broken down with a blown transmission. It was so beautiful that couldn't help buy it! My title says 1973 280SEL 4.5.  Is this a W116?? Can anyone help me figure out what it is? Thanks!! - Adam

What you have there is a W108, which is the predecessor to the W116 (your avatar picture is also of a W108).
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 21 December 2012, 05:36 PM
I've been nice to my 450 lately.
In preparation for its resto next year, I have now collected pretty much every crucial steering, suspension and brake part except for new steering box, steering pump and master brake cylinder, which I don't need to replace. Oh, and I got it a new ignition coil, plugs, timing chain, cam-/driveshaft sprockets, oilers, guides, tensioner and rocker cover gaskets.

Places I can definitely recommend for parts:
- autohausaz.com, most prices are just awesome compared to Europe, good service too
- seekpart24.com, large selection of OEM quality parts and quite good pricing (for Europe)

Meanwhile, the biggest (only, I guess) Irish Mercedes-Benz dealer failed to respond to my parts query for almost three weeks now... and I'll stop here, before my Irish-retail-rage valve opens  >:(
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 21 December 2012, 08:48 PM
Ptashek I have found that unless you have a good pre existing relationship with a lot of dealers they are less than helpful re parts for older cars.

Add to that the lack of knowledge in dealerships and parts centers on the old bangers and you are generally better off with a grey market/independent place and overseas is great as well.

I use and have used in the past Bits4Benz (Shane), AutohausAZ and MB Spares (Canberra) here in Australia with great results over and above my attempts with dealers.

there is also Classic Center in California who have a great rep and I believe Joe (Jbrasile) is also a great source of international parts as well as being an esteemed and more importantly contributing member of this forum.

Over time you will build favorite suppliers as I have and the money and angst you save will make it all the more worthwhile to lavish attention and bits on these old girls lol

Cheers,
Tony
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 21 December 2012, 10:10 PM
Quote from: Tony66_au on 21 December 2012, 08:48 PM
Ptashek I have found that unless you have a good pre existing relationship with a lot of dealers they are less than helpful re parts for older cars.

Add to that the lack of knowledge in dealerships and parts centers on the old bangers and you are generally better off with a grey market/independent place and overseas is great as well.

I use and have used in the past Bits4Benz (Shane), AutohausAZ and MB Spares (Canberra) here in Australia with great results over and above my attempts with dealers.

there is also Classic Center in California who have a great rep and I believe Joe (Jbrasile) is also a great source of international parts as well as being an esteemed and more importantly contributing member of this forum.

Over time you will build favorite suppliers as I have and the money and angst you save will make it all the more worthwhile to lavish attention and bits on these old girls lol

Cheers,
Tony

Might be. I never had any relationship with MB, because the W116, W123, W124 and W126 are the only models I would ever consider owning, and by the time these were sold new I was somewhere in between not-yet-born and in-college.

And yes, Joe is very helpful with pricing parts. I've got a list of things to work and compare through... if the dealer ever gets back to me ;)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: JasonP on 29 December 2012, 04:45 PM
Today I removed and replaced a cracked hose that went between my air filter housing and the crankcase ventilation pipe. (outlined in green below)

(http://meandmymercedes.ucoz.org/_ph/12/2/219805724.jpg)

What a chore. It was like a jigsaw puzzle, and I had to insert two parts in at the same time - the hose and the large u-shaped intake line.

It was a total hack job before I got to it today - there was no grommet for the vacuum line from the vacuum pump (outlined in red, above), just a lot of rubber goop I had to remove from both the hole and the hose. The rubber insert inside the u-shaped intake line was shoved to the side and is now misshapen, it does not seat right, but I think I forced it to.

I also discovered all three of my air filter housing rubber mounts were ripped off. I had no idea.

I'll post pics and write up later, if this all sounds greek to you (as it would to me). The great news is that this little hose was spraying oil everywhere, and now it is sealed and tight. But that begs the question - why was oil in it at all? Is there supposed to be? When I took it all apart, oil was actually dripping from the u-shaped intake line. And there was oil in the turbo (but the turbo axle had no play whatsoever! and the blades looked nice and un-chipped! Woo-hoo!) And I put in a new rubber grommet and now the vacuum line seats perfectly.

It's really cool when you have no idea what you're doing and you know if the part doesn't fit your f--ked, but then the part does fit and it all goes back together perfectly.  :)

I just hope the air filter stays in place and doesn't vibrate itself to Timbuktu. It is being held in place by the u-shaped intake line - I tightened the clamps with a socket instead of a screwdriver.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 29 December 2012, 07:31 PM
A few days ago I removed half the oil cooler feed line to the top of the cooler to repair the hose but I cant find my hydraulic hose crimper tool, so today I borrow the same hose from the Brown SE and I will replace the hose on the SE when I repair the busted item.

Then its an oil change with whats left in the SEL and after some priming or the lube system a test start with the AAV hose 3/4 restricted to keep the cold start to low low RPM incase I hear something nasty I dont want the cold start at 1800 RPM............
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Kjhall65 on 29 December 2012, 11:03 PM
I washed the 450SE today and drove it around awhile having a bit of fun and running the LPG tank low.  Once the tank is empty (in the next week or so) the car goes onto the car stands and the LPG comes out and the K-Jet goes back in.  I am hoping to start this with a mechanic mate in the second week of Jan before I go back to work.

When I start he project ill start a new thread and put up some pics of the process.  She will also get a new steering coupler while she is high and dry.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ZCarFan on 31 December 2012, 08:00 PM
Put another 5 gallons of premium in the 280 SE after draining the tank and changing the filter and it now at least starts and idles cleanly on its own.  Still pops back and bogs when feeding it throttle.  The valves are not so noisy anymore which makes the big leak at the exhaust manifold/head pipe sound even louder.  Sadly, this means some exhaust work.

I will need to change the filter again, check the fuel pressure and do a full tuneup with valve adjustment to really evaluate the engine.  Idles quite smoothly so I think she'll live. 

After that, it's on to the list

* Sunroof drains and weathersrtip
* Outside door handles (replace one adjust 3)
* Restuff rear seat
* Rebuild window switches
* Tires
* Machine rotors, rebuild calipers (due to sitting)
* belts/hoses
* buff paint
* replace trunk weatherstrip
* fix rust in spare tire well
* turn signal switch

Could do it all in one weekend if I had the parts laid out an work would quit calling :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 04 February 2013, 05:10 PM
I've changed oil and oil filter today in the 450. Whoever did the last job has messed it up completely, installing the filter in reverse. As far as I can tell, all the oil was simply bypassing the filter. Unbelievable.

I've cleaned the filter housing out with isopropyl alcohol (washes old oil gunk just perfect) and then filled-up. With 8 fresh litres of 10W40 Castrol Magnatec and a properly installed Mann filter, including new o-ring and gaskets, the old lady purrs like a kitten now. New sparks made the difference, but new oil gave the finishing touch ;) A full tank of fuel did not harm either.

I other news, after even more testing today I think my CC amp is still messed up somehow.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 04 March 2013, 03:21 PM
Got a fair few things done today.

Biggest job was getting the heater valve swapped. The 450SE had the newer type, sealed black actuator and plastic (?) valve (A1168300684). It was leaking vacuum,  permanently open and thus blasting hot air all the time. The 350SE had the older type aluminium valve and the pear-like pink actuator (A1168001775). I thought there may be issues fitting the older type, but it's a direct replacement. I finally have fully working heating :)

This was part of my vacuum-leak hunting and eliminating process, but hasn't helped much in term of the cruise control behaving any better. I've swapped all diaphragms in my central locking earlier (Kent Bergsma sells them (http://mercedessource.com/store/1973-1980-vacuum-door-lock-actuator-single-rubber-diaphragm)), except trunk and fuel tank flap (those use different diaphragms). That hasn't helped the cruise control either, but at least my central locking is like new now.

While I've been in the engine bay already, I've swapped the water box drain pipes with ones from the 350SE, which surprisingly were in a much better shape then the ones in the 450SE, despite being older and the fact the car was never garaged. Go figure...

I've also swapped the throttle return spring (A1179930310) and one of the throttle bushings (A1800720393) with new parts. The new spring is about 15mm longer then the original one, and thanks to this the throttle pedal response is much smoother as the spring does not stretch as much and pulls back with less force.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Green74280se on 04 March 2013, 08:25 PM
Hmm, Last week was a big week of repairing everything required mechanically.

Yesterday and this morning (Before work) has been tidying her up cosmetically... Can't believe how much deep seated grime there is in a 37yo Cream MB TEX interior??!!.

Apart from a deep vaccuum and starting with the vinyl foam I repaired a tiny crack in the dash with Black silicon, painted sills with satin black stone guard and changed the wipers.

Tomorrow morn will be re-installing the washed and disinfected front seat sheepskins that came with the car and adjusting the steering wheel back to centre!!!

The day after will be replacing the two front door speakers.... fun fun fun! ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Tony66_au on 06 March 2013, 07:26 PM
MB Tex seems to soak up and hide a lot of grunge but the transformation when clean is amazing!

Havent done much to the 450SEL as i have been busy with mt 350SLC  but tonight is the night to sort the oil line once and for all, Got a mate who does hydraulics popping over to make me a new hose!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Depa77450sel on 26 March 2013, 06:08 AM
Today I finally got rid of those plastic w126 hubcaps, replaced them with bunts and got a wheel alignment and balance :D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: shadetree77 on 26 March 2013, 10:12 PM
unplanned repair since my entire exhaust fell off while driving home from work. I stopped by mcparts store to pick up and install 4 new muffler donut hangers....check your muffler hangers; i only had one holding on the entire exhaust and it let go; totally forgot to check them when i got the car and i'm busy focusing on other repairs...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gf on 27 March 2013, 07:54 AM
Ripping out the fuel rail-IT STINKS!!!!!!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: kastad on 05 April 2013, 12:58 PM
Changed water pump and associated rubber hoses!  :D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: navigator on 05 April 2013, 04:26 PM
Had park brake light switch fixed

New master cylinder and bled brakes

new rear exhaust box

instrument and heater control backlights replaced

Fixed leak on gearbox sump - new g/b filter oil and gasket for g/b sump

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: caleboar on 05 April 2013, 05:51 PM
New speedometer cable (no longer flickers or clicks) last week.
New Bilstein HD shocks all the way around last month.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 07 April 2013, 04:39 PM
Replaced both upper control arms over the weekend. Man they're bastards to get in right! You have to be really careful mounting the control arm to the sway bar - if there's any tension whatsoever, you're in for a bad time pushing that M24 bolt into its place. After 34 years the rubber was hard like rock and was starting to deteriorate really bad. One of the joints wasn't all that great either.
(http://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/904180_641249449222310_1339201788_o.jpg)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: scraf on 08 April 2013, 02:39 PM
Time to sort out some gremlins in the fuel system, it's starting rough, flat patches in the acceleration, no on board computer thingy, need to sort out the gas mix before I go any further.

The gas man requires it to run on petrol before looking at the lpg system, as it not idling on petrol I tank 15 liters in anticipation of playing around with the fuel mix on the carb.

Come out of the petrol station foyer to see a huge puddle under the car, uh oh, step in, wonder if this is going to be my last moment on earth and get the hell out of dodge.

Manage to get it idling while the remaining fuel dripped out, removed the offending hose between the filter / pump and the 'accumulator', I think it is.

Turns out the 'accumulator' end has a circumference of around 12,5 cm and the pump 15, plus a lip.

So off to the Mercedes garage to get such a tube, find it in the files, available by the meter only. Duh!

After a long day smelling of petrol I eventually managed to force a pipe on the fuel pump, and we're running on petrol.

Yay !
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: beagle2022 on 09 April 2013, 11:38 PM
So far this year:
New sump.  No more oil leaks!
Replaced all those tiny bulbs in the instrument panel.  Looks like a Christmas tree now.
Checked the pressure in the K jet system.  All good.
Repaired the exhaust y piece. Bad mistake.  Need to find a proper permanent solution.  Why did MB screw this RHD issue up so badly?
Replaced the fuel accumulator.  Starts properly when warm now.
Repaired three small rust patches in the lip of the boot/trunk. No rust visible anywhere (for a while at least).
Replaced the power antenna.  No more fear of vandals.
Got every bit of the central locking to work.  Small miracle of persistence.
Overhauled all the power window mechanisms and regulators.  All working smoothly!
Replaced the sound proofing mat on the bonnet/hood.  Much quieter.
Replaced the drainage tube from the petrol filler through the floor. No more wet patches in the boot/trunk.

And most importantly: drove the old girl on three long trips of more than 700km each without a glitch.

Stiill to do: overhaul the cruise control amplifier.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: scraf on 10 April 2013, 03:53 AM
.... and I'm running ( with acceleration ) on LPG !

Many thanks to this guy ....

http://www.performanceforums.com/forums/showthread.php?67202699-DIY-LPG-Tuning

.... who happens to be an Aussie, as shown in his "cork and string" improvisation story. :)

Quote
A friend of mine has a 4wd on lpg. It very very occasionally backfires. Due to where he often drives, it's not practical for him to risk blowing out the airfilter and it's connections, as it would leave him stranded. So he's drilled a hole in the carb hat/snorkel (whilst off the engine) and filed/sanded it to get rid of any sharp angles. he then literally sticks a wine cork (with a little electrical tape around it to help it go in without tearing, and to help wedge it in tighter. As long as the cork is tapered (slighly triangle shaped) it can't get sucked all the way in. And if it backfires, it just blows the cork out, and keeps the rest protected. He's got the cork on a string tied to something in the engine bay (I forget where, but it's unimportant) and also carries a spare in the glovebox just in case.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: HAKO on 10 April 2013, 05:26 AM
Quote from: ptashek on 07 April 2013, 04:39 PM
Replaced both upper control arms over the weekend. Man they're bastards to get in right! You have to be really careful mounting the control arm to the sway bar - if there's any tension whatsoever, you're in for a bad time pushing that M24 bolt into its place. After 34 years the rubber was hard like rock and was starting to deteriorate really bad. One of the joints wasn't all that great either.
(http://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/904180_641249449222310_1339201788_o.jpg)

I am willing to do the same replacement. How is the car performing after replacement? Is there any big
difference?

HAKO
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 10 April 2013, 03:24 PM
Quote from: HAKO on 10 April 2013, 05:26 AM
I am willing to do the same replacement. How is the car performing after replacement? Is there any big
difference?

To be perfectly honest: I don't know. The car drives just as good as it did before.
In my case the old bushings, while hard as rock, were still intact, and only one of the joints was worn (not worn out though).
My take on this was that, at ~54EUR a piece (http://seekpart24.com/febi/track-control-arm-5953?c=100571&at=596), those control arms are cheap enough to justify a replacement of a 34 year old part just for the sake of it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 13 April 2013, 04:09 PM
Got another batch of suspension/steering work done today: replaced all tie rods, steering damper, front shocks (Gabriel), all exhaust suspension rubber. I'll need to check the tracking/alignment, but after a few test miles there's no sign of gross misalignment. It was a heck of a job, mostly because of poor access, but well worth the effort.

I've planned to do the rear shocks and springs as well, but the nuts holding the top part of the shocks are seized like hell on both sides. I think I'll need to cut through the piston somehow and get it out topside, then get the rest out normally. I've given up on front springs. I'll let someone else do these. My life is to dear to me :)

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/602217_643693715644550_454878986_n.jpg)
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-g-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/556011_643693548977900_2016926857_n.jpg)
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/555833_644317458915509_1291182062_n.jpg)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: entresz on 14 April 2013, 03:32 AM
This probably doesn't count as today, but more as 'in the last few months'...........

- new fuel injectors and seals; runs like a dream, more power, and improved fuel efficiency.
- new front upper control arms; front wheels are no longer have a strange camber.
- new tyres; I have grip!
- hood star fitted!
- boot and bonnet/front guards reprayed.


it's a labor of love !
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: AndreasF on 19 April 2013, 11:48 AM
A brandnew goods vehicle test certificate from the German TÜV for my W116.  Certainly without any defects, YEESSS  ;D

(http://abload.de/img/comp_2013-04-1917.11.9ha9y.jpg)

Love my good car  :-*
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Green74280se on 28 April 2013, 09:19 PM
Replaced a blown rear brake light globe, removed the steering wheel and placed it in the quarter past 9 position instead of 20 past 10!!!

Also had a strange scraping sound when turning sharp right... RH side swaybar bolt had come loose and was scraping inside the rear wheel!!!... LHS was also loose so after tightening both up she handles much better!

;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: hagar24 on 18 May 2013, 04:23 PM
For my W116 350 SE,New distributor, new timing chain and rails, new fuel pump.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 13 June 2013, 06:35 PM
I've replaced almost all rubber parts under the hood, well at least the ones I considering worth replacing ;)
So that would be:

- all vacuum connections, except for two or three "bridges" that were still in very good shape

- A1170780481 - Small rubber boot connecting the aux air valve to the WUR via a plastic pipe. Badly cracked. Cold idle got a fair bit smoother after replacing it.
- A1000941191 - It's the big rubber boot on aux air valve side. It got so hard I had to take the valve off to replace it :/
- A1160940282 - That's the other one, same issue as above + a crack
- A1170940391 - Idling air distributor hose. This one had a few small cracks at its base.
- A1160940791 - Air filter housing to engine block hose. This one wasn't half as bad as the others.
- A0010942280 - Air filter housing to throttle housing hose. Hardened rubber doesn't seal...

More on the aux valve coming off - I've totally missed the fact there's a paper gasket sealing it. The price at MB UK? Twelve pounds sterling!
Being faced with an insane price, and the car being grounded for a few days, I have simply made one myself - at zero cost. It seals perfect.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 10 September 2013, 10:46 AM

today i managed to fix the prndl cable on my column shift, i was not looking forward to taking out the cluster and checking
that i had a cable.  the instrument cluster came out real easy, i found the cable and  connected it easily enough which is brilliant, now to find a bulb for it , it is tiny much smaller than the other bulbs.

john
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: 1974450SEL on 02 October 2013, 06:36 PM
I finally purchased a brand new windshield after breaking the original one (My smart self replacing wiper blades let the arm spring back without the blade in place and a nice star crack on the original windshield 3 years ago)  Good thing too, they showed me a place where severe rust has started lower passenger corner, they cleaned it out and sealed it before they installed the new gasket.  I told them she's no show car but still needs to be functional.  Safelite did a great job to the tune of 395.00.  I inquired about having the rear window gasket replaced and the owner told me I would need to purchase that separately and he would install it only charging me the labor rate.   My next big project is to refurb the AAV.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: mrkozzy on 13 October 2013, 04:17 AM
How far will 356000 kilometres get you?

About this far..........


(http://img856.imageshack.us/img856/6022/a72f.jpg)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: JasonP on 20 October 2013, 10:13 PM

Today I replaced all 5 glow plugs on my 1979 300SD. Normally I try not to work on my car on Sundays, but since it will get in the 30's this week, I thought this must be done today.

The glow plug light has been flashing after startup for several weeks now, and I know one or two cylinders is not firing right away from the sound and vibration.

The first 90 minutes was spent cleaning and repairing the relay, which was missing it's cover, and had been sprayed with oil, from an unknown oil leak, for years. So after I cleaned all that out, and snatched a relay cover from my parts car, I moved on to begin the real work.

I did a resistance test on the relay plug for each glow plug. It looked like 2 of them were out, do not remember which ones. I didn't really care since I was replacing all 5.

I ordered Monark plugs from Mercedessource, along with his tutorials, special tools, and reamer. I followed his directions to a tee. I removed all the fuel lines before I got started, for clearance.

Cylinder #4 was the worst, as my wrench had about 15 degrees of play to unscrew the plug. It took forever. I finally got fed up and removed all the throttle linkage in the way. That was the worst plug - hard to remove and rusty on the threads -  probably because it was so hard to get to the previous owners ignored it as much as they could.

The most carbon was in the first two cylinders. Reaming was fine, I did not have any problems. I even vacuumed out the hole and used Kent's brush when I was done reaming. The hole for #4 scared me though, as the glow plug's threads looked a little damaged. There were a few sparkly metal shards in the hole, too, that I vacuumed out, and hopefully none fell into the cylinder. The new plug screwed in just fine, so the threads were not stripped in any significant manner.

When I was all done the sun had already set (I have no garage and work outdoors). The only fault I had was with the 8mm nuts that connect the wiring harness to the glow plugs. These did not have washers, and when tightened, they pulled the wiring harness connecter with it. I did my best to not let that happen, but unfortunately two of the 5 rubber (now brittle) wire housing tubes "cracked" when I tightened.

I lost one of the old 8mm nuts too, it fell behind the fuel pump. Oh, well. I made sure it was not jamming any linkage play.

Finally got everything back together and started the car. I did not make any special attempt to bleed air out of the fuel lines, I just let the starting process do that. After holding the starter for about 5 to 10 seconds, the engine started right up and ran beautifully - every piston firing. I killed the engine and cleaned up a little more, then went back out for a test drive on the highway. Started up, no flashing glow plug light.

Job done. And well, I might add.  8)

I would have liked to take pictures and create a write-up as a tutorial, but it just takes extra time to do that. Since it was a Sunday afternoon, I said forget it. The entire job took 5 hours and 45 minutes. Most of the time was spent unscrewing and screwing the glow plugs and reamer. Because there was so little clearance, it took forever.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: mswcpt on 23 November 2013, 01:23 AM
The last two months have been pretty expensive!

- engine dampeners replaced
- new upper control arms and bushes
- New shocks, front and rear
- new bearings - front
- new break pads
- re-cored radiator + replaced all hoses to engine!
- thermostat replacement
- heater electrics overhauled, switches and vacuum overhaul
- prop shaft bearing replaced + balanced
- overhauled diff from donor car fitted (Tks S Class!)
- gearbox mounting bracket replaced with new
- valves adjusted
- timing adjusted
- carb injectors overhauled
- steering column bearing replaced
- oil service
- thorough clean

coming up: manifold removal and inspection, new door rubber seals

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ZCarFan on 26 January 2014, 11:00 PM
I finally got around to working on the 280SE again.  Been sitting for nearly a year while I worked on other projects.  Replaced the plug wires, copper washers at the fuel pump and filter, put in about 2 gallons of fresh gas and ran it for a while.  Still popping back through the intake when revving in neutral though smoothing out.  Will adjust the valves, pull the plugs and do a compression test to rule out a stuck valve.  If that looks good then I guess it's time for a K-jet pressure test kit.  One of these days I might actually get to drive it. :)

Unfortunately while I was crawling around by the pump I noticed some issues with the quarter panel.  Looks like at least part of the panel was replaced but did not line up fully with the inner wheel well lip.  I expect that it was hit in that corner at one time and the repair was a bit off.  Looks straight on the outside but there is some cracking paint/filler by the corner of the rear window that seems to fit my theory.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: socalsean on 30 January 2014, 08:32 PM
I moved mine so it wouldn't get towed.  ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: JasonP on 03 February 2014, 10:02 PM

I replaced my windshield washer pump.

It stopped working about three weeks ago. I hear a whirring sound, but no fluid comes out. So I went to my handy-dandy parts car, yanked that pump out, and installed it in my daily driver. When I removed the daily driver pump, snot was clogging one of the fluid lines. It would probably work if I put it back in, but I had already removed and cleaned the parts car pump, so I just continued the job.

The hardest part: getting the hose (feed line to the window) off the pump. The connecter has a mushroom top, and it hangs on pretty tight. Used a tiny screwdriver to help pry it off.

Total time: about 1 hour.

Sweet.

Oh, yeah, it works.


P.S. Where can I get a nice, new battery tray?

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: socalsean on 07 February 2014, 07:52 PM
Registered and insured it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 08 February 2014, 06:33 AM

I bought 4 bundts pn 1084001002 with 4 new tyres 2 falkens and 2 camac  205/70/14, they need a bit of tidying but i got them for 100 euro for the four great value, i will try and pick up a fifth at some future stage.

I think i will use the rial 16/8 that i have on for winter and the narrower bundts for summer , if we ever get one again its been non stop rain and wind, which is driving water in my rear windscreen seal, parcel shelf is wet that's a job for next month.
I didn't like the RIAL alloys originally but i have grown to like them, the RIAL look like BBS but a lot cheaper.

john
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 18 February 2014, 06:56 PM
Quote from: w116john on 08 February 2014, 06:33 AM

I bought 4 bundts pn 1084001002 with 4 new tyres 2 falkens and 2 camac  205/70/14, they need a bit of tidying but i got them for 100 euro for the four great value, i will try and pick up a fifth at some future stage.

I think i will use the rial 16/8 that i have on for winter and the narrower bundts for summer , if we ever get one again its been non stop rain and wind, which is driving water in my rear windscreen seal, parcel shelf is wet that's a job for next month.
I didn't like the RIAL alloys originally but i have grown to like them, the RIAL look like BBS but a lot cheaper.

john

I have either four or five spare original 14" bundts (and a few copies of lesser quality). Given that I've switched to 15" bundts and have no plans to ever use the 14s again, I'll part with these for reasonable money if you're interested. They're in good nick - mount, and enjoy. No work required. Actually, I have 3/4 of a mechanically sound 350SE in spares if you need stuff.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: socalsean on 19 February 2014, 08:42 PM
Ordered custom engine mounts and a top end gasket kit.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: beagle2022 on 19 February 2014, 10:42 PM
Replaced the headlining on a 280sel with a sun roof.  Got the roof lining from a supplier in Turkey ($100US) and paid a local trimmer to do the deed ($300 Aussie).  Fiddly job with a sun roof. Good outcome though.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 20 February 2014, 08:20 AM
Quote from: beagle2022 on 19 February 2014, 10:42 PM
Replaced the headlining on a 280sel with a sun roof.  Got the roof lining from a supplier in Turkey ($100US) and paid a local trimmer to do the deed ($300 Aussie).  Fiddly job with a sun roof. Good outcome though.

Can you provide a link for the supplier?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: adamb on 21 February 2014, 03:09 AM
Quote from: ptashek on 20 February 2014, 08:20 AM
Quote from: beagle2022 on 19 February 2014, 10:42 PM
Replaced the headlining on a 280sel with a sun roof.  Got the roof lining from a supplier in Turkey ($100US) and paid a local trimmer to do the deed ($300 Aussie).  Fiddly job with a sun roof. Good outcome though.

Can you provide a link for the supplier?

Try eBay. I got a roll for £30. It's standard perforated material used in VWs also. I made my own headliner using the existing one as a template. The difference in colour is incredible.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 25 February 2014, 10:04 AM
hi

I went in search of a rear screen demister relay , as i have just discovered i have a demister i wasnt sure as the lines are very fine and vertical? unlike any demister that i have seen before. any way i found why my central locking had stopped working as the vac line had come loose , re-attached and its working again.

the relay i was looking for is not in the kick panel , it must be by the knee roll? thats where the buzzing is.

some progress at least

all the best

john
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ters on 25 February 2014, 12:27 PM
Started Sunday.....full service, new differential oil (for peace of mind only..). Only got to test drive the old lady this afternoon.
I am falling deeper in love with her gracious and effortless driving.

Now I need another 116, but V8....

Ters.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: djetronicista on 01 March 2014, 09:22 PM
 :) I finally replaced both Front Swaybar Rubber mounts,  had to remove the brake booster and brake lines.  took the heater motor and box assembly out to get to one of the bolts.  What a job still need to bleed brakes will do tommorrow.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: FoxAlpha3 on 12 March 2014, 06:33 AM
Pulled off all of the belts, cut a few off instead of taking them off properly in order to get down to the parts store in time!

They didn't have them all, and a lot of my old ones weren't labeled..

Went to start her before hand and she wasnt starting, fuel was pouring out at the filter.. Bugger
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gordonm on 05 March 2015, 12:53 PM
Finally got my 116 350 engine running after eight months being removed, stripped, rebuilt, refitted, diagnosed ( right hand cam 180 degrees out ), removed, shipped back to Glasgow, reset (timing), returned, refitted, running like a bag of bolts, six hydraulic tappets renewed, warmup regulator overhauled, idle air valve renewed, timing set to 5 degrees BTDC -----runs like a dream---- what was all the fuss about !!!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: adamb on 09 March 2015, 05:00 PM
Quote from: gordonm on 05 March 2015, 12:53 PM
Finally got my 116 350 engine running after eight months being removed, stripped, rebuilt, refitted, diagnosed ( right hand cam 180 degrees out ), removed, shipped back to Glasgow, reset (timing), returned, refitted, running like a bag of bolts, six hydraulic tappets renewed, warmup regulator overhauled, idle air valve renewed, timing set to 5 degrees BTDC -----runs like a dream---- what was all the fuss about !!!

Well done. But something is seriously wrong... the picture shows the wrong chassis :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Beastie on 22 May 2015, 08:41 AM
Today I brimmed the tank from the reserve with the total cost of fuel coming out at... 116 dollars. :) "Ha!", I thought. That funny little coincidence distracted me from the rather sharp, shooting pain emanating from my wallet.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Ray R on 26 May 2015, 12:03 PM
Not just today. More like for the last month or so.

Started by changing all the fluids and filters on the '79 300SD. Even the power steering pump. Differential oil, brake fluid flush, etc., etc. I bought the car in October with just 88k miles on it.
Changing the fuel tank filter was interesting. I pulled the hose and let it drain into some 5 gal containers. After what I thought was close to empty, it kept dripping fuel from the hose. I was in no hurry, so let it drip for a day.....then another day.....then another day. The fuel drip was never ending. So I went ahead and pulled the filter and WHOOSH.....another couple gallons dumped from the tank. Yep, that filter was pretty clogged up.  ;)

I bought a set of original 14" bundts from a local chap, bead blasted them, and off they went for powder coating. They should be ready this week. Then going to get new skins mounted. Some Michelin Defenders in 205/70 R14 size.

I replaced the shocks at each corner with some new Bilsteins. Those originals were ready for a change. Improved the ride substantially.

I replaced the fuel sensing unit which fixed the reserve light issue I had where it used to be on steady.

I replaced the alternator with a rebuilt Bosch unit when my dash warning lights (brakes and battery) came on consistently at idle. Also replaced all the belts while I was in there.

I replaced the rear defroster switch which wasn't working properly. It wouldn't shut off without turning the car off.

I still have a few more things to finish, but it's getting close!

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 26 May 2015, 02:43 PM
Good to have fresh goodies on 8)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Ray R on 28 May 2015, 06:27 PM
Wheels came back from powder coating today.

They came out pretty nice for 14 x 6s. $160 for the set of 4.

(http://i1258.photobucket.com/albums/ii523/Ray_R/Wheel.jpg) (http://s1258.photobucket.com/user/Ray_R/media/Wheel.jpg.html)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: robertd on 28 May 2015, 11:02 PM
Hello Ray,

Very nice, I like.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Ray R on 01 June 2015, 10:17 AM
Ugh....just when I think I've got the car just about done, I find the ACC has a short in the servo causing a slow battery drain.  More work. More $$$. Lots more $$$.  ;)

But in the end, I think this car will be worth it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 01 June 2015, 12:38 PM
Welcome to the money toilet ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: goldacre on 04 June 2015, 05:28 AM
This week....

MISSION ONE - replace fuel accumulator, fuel filter, fuel damper, fuel flex line into chassis fuel rail, fuel outlet line from fuel tank to fuel damper (do check these as my old 280SEL dropped a whole tank of fuel as was way past its service life, fuel line that is) , replace fuel pipe between fuel damper and fuel pump, replace the 4 rubber mounts for fuel assembly. OUTCOME - looks good, the fuel damper and accumulator are now retro parted to W126 parts so accumulator a lot larger resulting in near silent fuel pump running, all else standard. Parts not supplied but essential are copper washers between fuel pump and fuel filter, don't even think of recycling used ones, part number - Copper O-Ring (12x17x1.5mm) - CRP 007603-012110 (can also use for oil drain plug if you don't have the tapered one). New pipe clamps for the fuel hose from the fuel tank and the hose between the damper and fuel pump are 12mm to 20mm clamps. Fuel hose between fuel damper and fuel pump -  1234763026 CRP-Contitech OEM - Fuel Hose/Line; Damper Cage to Fuel Pump; Reinforced; 14mm ID. No major issues, as was replacing fuel lines at either end i removed the whole assembly which made access to the mentioned fuel lines very easy  8) NOTE - to help anyone including yourself in years to come if you still have the car, use a permanent marker pen and write the month and year you replaced the fuel pump, fuel accumulator and fuel filter  :-*

MISSION TWO - replace the rear mount for differential, not easy and a lot of stuffing around  >:( OUTCOME - eventually, good, but required a set of bolts to drift back into place the mount as supporting with jack only raised the whole flipping car up and down  ??? the two rear bolts to subframe can be a long length but the two front ones require bolts of less length so started with 2 X 90mm then went down to 2 X  50mm with greased washers to reduce ratcheting drag, got there in the end but took all day for what i thought was a 2 hour job  ;D

NEW MISSIONS SHOULD I CHOOSE TO ACCEPT IT - door locks not holding vacuum  >:( sun roof cable binding so need to work out how to replace that  >:( >:( >:( >:(

G
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 04 June 2015, 09:53 AM
Good write up with nice detail.
For sure it is much easier to remove the fuel pack completely and work on it on the bench, as long as it is a well ventilated area ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Ray R on 02 July 2015, 05:40 PM
Rebuilt calipers, new rotors, and new pads all around. And a valve adjustment.

I'm done updating the car now. I can't say restore because it was too nice to start with. It just had some stuff a 1979 300SD would need after 88k miles and 36 years.

What a great car to drive!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Ray R on 04 July 2015, 12:14 AM
I spoke too soon. The driver's window regulator broke today. DAMN!!  Another project.


Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ZCarFan on 31 October 2015, 08:11 PM
Finally got around to replacing the fuel strainer on the '78 280SE and put the alternator, pulley and fan.  She's running again.  Really needs a valve adjustment.  The M110 in my W126 is much quieter.

This one might be saved yet.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: als450 on 03 November 2015, 09:25 PM
Just picked up the 450, 4 new injectors, the others cleaned, sorted a couple of leads out, aircon regassed. Drove 60km home at highway speeds....and a tad more, drove beautifully, plenty of kick when the foot went down and aircon blew icy cold. Hadn't driven it for ages and now i know why I bought it, puts a great smile on my face whenever I drive it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: floyd111 on 06 November 2015, 12:30 AM
keep the wheel caps! She looks fine!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: goldacre on 21 November 2015, 12:23 AM
Essential hose management to ensure integrity! Hi folks, over my years of W116 ownership the inconveniences that have befallen me are as below and strongly recommend people check these as they can ruin your whole day, worse if in the middle of nowhere! as follows:

Fuel delivery pipe from base of fuel tank into damper-fuel pump - this hose can deteriorate and with my 280SEL it was so crusty after many years and exposure that after filling the 96 liter fuel tank it gave way dumping the lot  >:( as the hose is integrated with a metal threaded fitting which screws into the base of the tank (there are two types of these so check part numbers/years, i bought both in the end, about US$13 each) a 'make do' fix is impossible. cheap to replace and not a difficult job to do but do it with fuel tank near empty so can put in bucket or the like.

Self leveling rear suspension pipe below reservoir to hydraulic pump - A recent photo shoot identified that the hose had split dumping the 'special' hydraulic oil which is difficult to get, more so cheap. Check this hose and if brittle replace it, easy job, took to hose specialist who asked what for, is it under pressure and how hot does it get (A: Hydraulic Oil, No its the delivery side from reservoir to pump so maybe a little suction, about 60oC to 90oC on average) internal diameter is 6mm and has a thick hose boundary, they sold me a USA made hose which solved the problem.

if either of these go you get in case one, no fuel, no chance of repairing hose to 'get by' even by McGuyver standards. In case two, little or no fluid which you cannot buy at local auto stores and cannot run car if no oil left as pump could seize  :'(

Check these lines, i know you want to now!  8)

G
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ckamila on 29 November 2015, 07:33 PM
Finally got around to fixing the dash clock. Was running slow and worthless after and hour of resetting the time.
2 x 100uF CAP's at $1.49 each and probably and hour to pull the cluster, remove bit and replace.


After an hour of garage clean up she's keeping perfect time again!


Chris
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jed on 06 December 2015, 10:33 PM
Well I have had this non running 6.9 (#484) since february but I've been preoccupied with some other projects.  Today I had the itch to try to figure out if this car is a parts car or maybe something more.  It has quite a bit of rust in the trunk floor as well as behind the two front wheels into the rockers.  It would definitely be a handful to restore. 

Well, I drained the fuel tank, refilled it, pulled the plugs and cleaned them, sprayed PB blaster into the cylinders.  It turned over pretty readily.  I then replaced the plugs and sprayed some starting fluid and she slowly came to life.  I can get it her to idle (rather rough) and was able to throttle up some to about 2k rpm, although the throttle mechanism is all gummed up and sticks.  Well she ran for a good 5 minutes when she started foaming and spewing hydraulic oil out of the top the the filler reservoir (around the cap). When I opened the cap it was all foamy and overflowing. (sucking air from a bad pump or blown spheres?) I gave the hydraulic system regulator a few taps and fired her up again and she stopped spewing from the hydraulic reservoir but soon after started overflowing oil from the dry sump reservoir cap....no idea why it would do that??

what a mess I made today....but hay she started!!!

now what...I am afraid I am opening up a huge can of worms!!!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: floyd111 on 06 December 2015, 10:45 PM
I wish you all the best with this, whatever the outcome, but have a good long look, a good long think, together with a W116 "expert", and do the maths as to what this will cost to get it to run with confidence and double that amount.
If you aren't ready to go there, my advise would be to not throw your money out of the window.
Unless you have enough money, then you should go for it, just so you can look back later on and tell yourself you did it. :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jed on 06 December 2015, 11:05 PM
Floyd111,

Thanks for what is most certainly sounds advice.  I have done this before with a smaller, simpler, less expensive car (71 karmann ghia).  God knows I certainly don't need another project, as my garage is full of them.  Somehow I feel when you end up with a car like this it becomes your responsibility/burden/chore to make it right again....yes, it will require a good long look and think.

thanks agin


Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 05 July 2016, 05:14 PM
i am having some work done on the car next week to deal with some leaks and i decided to take out the rear seats as i am having the rear shocks done, and i was nervous expecting to find plenty of hidden surprises but i was delighted to find its in good shape a small area of surface rust, even the felt was in good shape and i found 10 pfennig which might come in handy if germany ever leaves the EU

all the best
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 06 July 2016, 08:18 AM
Quote from: w116john on 05 July 2016, 05:14 PM
even the felt was in good shape and i found 10 pfennig which might come in handy if germany ever leaves the EU

I got rid of the felt when restoring Goldie, and replaced it with sound deadening mats.
That thing is a terrible moisture trap, and tends to get mouldy as well resulting in rust and a terrible smell.

p.s.: The old currency is still legal tender in Germany, and can be exchanged for EUR indefinitely :)
http://www.bundesbank.de/Redaktion/EN/Standardartikel/Tasks/Cash_management/free_exchange_dm_euro.html
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 06 July 2016, 05:22 PM

i did smell like an old horse for while after taking out the seats,  i might do what you suggest and put in some sound deadening. the top of the seat is quite hard so i might try and treat it to some conditioner


john
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Malaysian on 09 July 2016, 11:14 AM
Instead of sound deadening mats (the reflective sort) i used the spongy sound deadening material that is made from black foam.

Will this also promote rust on the floorpans apart from felt. Kindly advise.

I have only just done front passenger floor well as of now.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 09 July 2016, 03:34 PM
Quote from: Malaysian on 09 July 2016, 11:14 AM
Instead of sound deadening mats (the reflective sort) i used the spongy sound deadening material that is made from black foam.

Will this also promote rust on the floorpans apart from felt. Kindly advise.

I have only just done front passenger floor well as of now.

It depends on the foam. If it's closed cell, the n it'll be OK. Open cell will eventually accumulate moisture.

I have used the foam (closed cell) on top of the sound deadening mats.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 10 July 2016, 11:56 AM
What material is supposed to be there? Mine has quite a thick layer of what appears to be bitumen which has been over sprayed with the body colour and then the floor mats which are very thick, sealed underneath, and moulded to fit over the heating ducts to the rear.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 11 July 2016, 07:07 AM
Quote from: marku on 10 July 2016, 11:56 AM
What material is supposed to be there? Mine has quite a thick layer of what appears to be bitumen which has been over sprayed with the body colour and then the floor mats which are very thick, sealed underneath, and moulded to fit over the heating ducts to the rear.

The original floor insulation is some sort of bitumen matt, bout 4-5mm thick.
At least on my car, it was hard as stone and brittle after 37 years.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Malaysian on 11 July 2016, 08:12 AM
Its the ickiest bitumen of all. I spent half the day today scraping/flaking/brittling/breaking the damn 40 year old stuff to put in new insulation.

Using both black closed cell foam and reflective mats for this job.

Replacing all the smelly felt with the same stuff too.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 27 March 2017, 07:05 AM
Did a few small jobs over the weekend:

- greased sunroof and seat rails, and antenna mast
- installed new OEM trunk edge garnish, incl. warning sticker
- re-glued the trunk seal as it came loose in one place
- adjusted idle RPM a little
- drove it, washed/waxed/vacuumed it, drove it again :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Peter on 27 March 2017, 05:01 PM
Did you adjust the idle up? I needed to do this as mine was correct at about 650 rpm at idle but I feel as though this is approx 100 rpm low for any summer condition where I need the aircon working.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 27 March 2017, 05:47 PM
Quote from: Peter on 27 March 2017, 05:01 PM
Did you adjust the idle up? I needed to do this as mine was correct at about 650 rpm at idle but I feel as though this is approx 100 rpm low for any summer condition where I need the aircon working.

I dropped it to around 820rpm, warmed up. Ideal for the M117 is around 720rpm if memory serves.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 17 April 2017, 05:42 PM
was a long time ago i did something for the W116 , 2 days ago i fitted a new heater control valve and Today i got my new 8-track player
its an 1974 Blaupunkt ACR 845 stereo quadro , were i was looking for for a long time becouse most 8-track players are 2 speaker and no blaupunkt , and i also recieved my velour dashboard cover from cover king , i have 2 litlle cracks on my dash so i have this for the mean time   

greetings : john   
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: goldacre on 07 July 2017, 09:29 PM
Replacing the water pump on the 450SEL...

What have i learnt since i last did this job?

i)  Use a 1/4 drive to remove the bolts with a flexible end for getting around the distributor so you don't have to remove it like i did last time using my 1/2 drive sockets  ::)
ii) a 27mm socket required to rotate crankshaft to get the harmonic balancer in the 2 positions to access the 2 lower bolts
iii) aftermarket water pumps last around 5 to 6 years before seals fail.

Emailing around for genuine replacements reveals that you can get your pump reconditioned by a foundry in Germany via the Classic Center. Aftermarket pumps don't push the water around as well as the genuine articles so engine runs hotter. Genuine MB pumps are available but very pricey.

G
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: s class on 11 July 2017, 04:50 AM
There are several versions of aftermarket pumps out there for the 350 and 450 engine.  Stay away from the Meyle unit, the impeller is too far from the casing leading to very poor pumping efficiency.  The GRAF unit is really very much better.  I've used a few of them happily. 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 11 July 2017, 12:30 PM
Quote from: s class on 11 July 2017, 04:50 AM
There are several versions of aftermarket pumps out there for the 350 and 450 engine.  Stay away from the Meyle unit, the impeller is too far from the casing leading to very poor pumping efficiency.  The GRAF unit is really very much better.  I've used a few of them happily.

Can't judge on longevity after just 12 months but my FEBI pump has performed perfectly thus far, ~8k miles since the restoration.

Temperatures are stable and barely ever go above 85°C / 185°F. I think the hottest the car got in that time was ~92°C after driving a few miles in 39°C heat in a slow moving traffic jam, just recently in France.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: goldacre on 12 July 2017, 06:59 AM
Cheers S Class and ptashek; will link this info when i get my thread going (sorting out new pic hosting site).

My failed pump was a Beck Arnley which came with the thermostat housing but on closer inspection it looks like the main seal between pump and motor failed, you are to expect a weep from the hole at the base of the shaft housing apparently.

I did source a Graf pump a while back but was dissapointed with the casting residue left in the pump and thought it was an indicator of ordinary mass production. Found a genuine pump which is available but looking at AU $800 :/ still cheaper than the Stealerships though  8)

Rebuilds available but prefer new if available.

G
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Will on 14 July 2017, 05:15 AM
Not a very exciting one, but yesterday I replaced all four door seals.  I think all bar the drivers door seals were the originals, but although they fell apart on removal, they were easy to get out.  As many people will know, you need some plastic clips to hold the seals in - those on the front doors wouldn't come out without being rendered unusable, but the rear ones were fine to use again (handy, as I hadn't bought spares of those ones!).

The job was surprisingly easy when I got the knack of it - I did all four in a couple of hours.  I used a set of repro seals which I got from German ebay and they were fine.  They seemed a little oversized at first, but the trick was to start with the areas that had specific mouldings (door corners, holes for plastic clips etc) and work back from there - any slack was easily taken up along the straight edges of the doors.

Overall a very satisfy and easy job, and with the seals being about £140, not too expensive either.  The downside (for me) is that I now know all four doors need rust remedying and repainting!

Next job is to do the outside window brushes/seals, which are on order from a Turkish ebayer who lists on ebay.com
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 14 July 2017, 10:29 AM
Do you need clips? Not saying you don't but seem to remember tidying mine up that they were glued. Probably the previous owner. Need to replace them now so would a standard contact adhesive work or would that dissolve the paintwork?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 14 July 2017, 12:33 PM
Quote from: marku on 14 July 2017, 10:29 AM
Do you need clips? Not saying you don't but seem to remember tidying mine up that they were glued. Probably the previous owner. Need to replace them now so would a standard contact adhesive work or would that dissolve the paintwork?

From factory there are several (3+ I think) plastic clips on the hinged side of the door. I'll post pics later.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 14 July 2017, 12:47 PM

there 2 different type of clip round top for the rear and a rectanglar for the front or the the other way around, i did mine a few years ago and had difficulty closing the doors untill they settled a bit, they were so airtight.



Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Will on 14 July 2017, 01:07 PM
That's right, there are two different types of clips: 6 round ones for each front door, and 4 or 5 rectangular ones for the rears. I didn't use glue, but it seems that glue had been used before, and there were a few points where it may have helped.  However, if you get the seals seated right they won't be flapping around or falling off, and when the doors are closed they'll obviously be wedged in place, so I'm happy to go without glue.

I also found that it was quite hard to shut the doors initially
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: floyd111 on 14 July 2017, 09:18 PM
Mind those Turkish sources. Lots of cheap repro's from there, and have have not yet heard about any turkish rubber being decent.
I bought a set of door trim from them once. Looked like it was made in the old USSR, not even close to the OEM trim. Turkish MB stickers, also rubbish. Did not get a refund.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Will on 15 July 2017, 01:39 AM
Interesting, thanks for the words of warning. I have actually purchased a set now, but for minimal cost, so I'll see what they look like when they arrive I guess before committing to the install.

It may be a false economy, but it does all start to add up if you only buy OEM, especially for a car like mine that will never be concourse - cheaper sources are tempting, unfortunately!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 15 July 2017, 02:49 AM
well the ones i put on were not oem, a little softer but that might just be age. the windscreen seals i went oem there are a lot more horror stories about bad screen seals

my car will never be concourse either,  its enough of a challenge to keep it on the road

best
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: UTn_boy on 16 July 2017, 06:56 PM
John, from the factory, and in addition to the plastic clips, the door seals were glued to the doors on the hinge sides, and especially down at the bottom inside corners where the door curves.  The other three sides of the seals were merely a tight fit in the grooves.  You can still buy the correct glue either from Mercedes or Teroson.  The Mercedes part number is 000-989-92-71-09, and the reference number for Teroson is 444651.  Be sure to clean any mold release wax or power off of the rubber beforehand with something like MEK (Methyl Ethyl Ketone). 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 17 July 2017, 02:44 AM

thanks, i will add that to the to do list.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 23 July 2017, 07:57 AM
Quote from: ptashek on 14 July 2017, 12:33 PM
Quote from: marku on 14 July 2017, 10:29 AM
Do you need clips? Not saying you don't but seem to remember tidying mine up that they were glued. Probably the previous owner. Need to replace them now so would a standard contact adhesive work or would that dissolve the paintwork?

From factory there are several (3+ I think) plastic clips on the hinged side of the door. I'll post pics later.

Pics of clips below. Front, and rear.

(http://www.dropbox.com/s/hbdx0s5g7j943qt/IMG_20170723_131845~2.jpg?dl=1)

(http://www.dropbox.com/s/ji669wswka1cglu/IMG_20170723_131954~2.jpg?dl=1)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 23 July 2017, 08:03 AM
Got some smaller things done over the weekend...

- Refurbished the spare Hirschmann Auta 2050 power antenna from my 350SE - took it apart, cleaned, re-greased everything. Working current dropped from 4A to 2.8A in both directions, so - success.

- Semi-fixed the broken mast on the antenna currently on the car. Cleaned and re-greased that one too. The antenna works, but doesn't go all the way up. Next time it fails, the Hirschmann will replace it.

- Finally installed the new boot lid star that I had lying around
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 23 July 2017, 11:03 AM
I am always surprised at what I don't see  like the the seal clips. Any way decided to do a good job and got some Teroson, half the price of the MB stuff. Also going to replace the boot seal which I have had for a while now. It doesn't go out in the rain but when it did it leaked like a sieve.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: UTn_boy on 23 July 2017, 03:16 PM
Quote from: marku on 23 July 2017, 11:03 AM
I am always surprised at what I don't see  like the the seal clips. Any way decided to do a good job and got some Teroson, half the price of the MB stuff. Also going to replace the boot seal which I have had for a while now. It doesn't go out in the rain but when it did it leaked like a sieve.

Make certain that you take note of the orientation of the boot seal.  There is only one way they go.  I've seen so many put on backwards/turned around etc.  And are your tail light seals and rubber seals for the chrome trim above the tail lights new, as well as the rear glass seal?  Those will allow water to leak in the trunk, as well. 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 26 July 2017, 10:09 AM
Thanks yes  I have offered it up and it doesn't seem very clear which way it goes. I bet there is no second go or re-positioning with the Teroson.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: UTn_boy on 27 July 2017, 01:49 PM
There will be a part of the boot seal  that has a lip that is turned down further.  This side goes to the rear edge where the rear edge of the boot lid meets it.  If you get the seal backwards it'll be obvious in that one of the seal edges around the other three sides will look funny, or will look to have a different way of how the edge lays.  Make any sense?  And no, with Teroson there is no second chance without a lot of time involved to remove the dried glue from the seal and trough that the seal lays in. 

Another side note, go over the new seal with acetone or methyl ethyl ketone before you apply glue to it.  The mold release agent won't allow for the new seal to hold glue to it.  Not having a solid glue foundation underneath is what will cause the seal trough to rust out, as water will get in under it and never have  chance to dry or evaporate in a decent amount of time. 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Squiggle Dog on 27 July 2017, 02:44 PM
I told you guys my next battery would be a genuine Mercedes with the star on it! My 300SD wouldn't start, the battery had been making sizzling noises and corroding the terminals no matter how often I cleaned them, and it wouldn't take a charge. It's not surprising, though, as I bought the battery 7 years ago as a remanufactured, so it could have been 20 years old for all I know.

So, yesterday I went to the Mercedes dealer and bought a new battery. The 004 541 03 01 part number EPC shows is discontinued as it's the old lead acid technology. The new AGM (absorbent glass mat) technology is replacing it. The new part number is 000 982 33 08.

The dealer had one in stock and the price was $167 but after my 10% MBCA discount it was $150. That's pretty reasonable considering all the other brands are in the $150-$200+ price range. Now it's all cozy and snug in its new home.

(http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/attachments/diesel-discussion/143423d1501183940-charging-old-interstate-battery-imag1407.jpg)
(http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/attachments/diesel-discussion/143424d1501183954-charging-old-interstate-battery-imag1412.jpg)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: karmann_20v on 27 July 2017, 03:02 PM
Squiggle: 7 years on a remanufactured battery in AZ? I'd say that is  more than decent. I keep reading on other car forums that  most ppl struggle to get 3-4 years out of a car battery in hot climates (which kills batteries faster than the cold).
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Squiggle Dog on 27 July 2017, 04:13 PM
Maybe Mercedes' overengineering in making a battery cooler actually works. I think this is unique to the W116 300SD--when driving, air gets pushed into the top duct of the battery box, cools the battery, and then sends the heat out through a duct in the middle of the tray and then out a vent under the headlight--or maybe the flow is reversed.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 28 July 2017, 12:33 AM
Great setup, the V8 cars need something like that, the batteries get cooked from the exhaust manifolds mainly,

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: robparker on 28 July 2017, 11:48 AM
Still sat wondering if I'll ever get my car back from the bodyshop!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 30 July 2017, 11:19 AM
Quote from: UTn_boy on 27 July 2017, 01:49 PM
There will be a part of the boot seal  that has a lip that is turned down further.  This side goes to the rear edge where the rear edge of the boot lid meets it.  If you get the seal backwards it'll be obvious in that one of the seal edges around the other three sides will look funny, or will look to have a different way of how the edge lays.  Make any sense?  And no, with Teroson there is no second chance without a lot of time involved to remove the dried glue from the seal and trough that the seal lays in. 

Another side note, go over the new seal with acetone or methyl ethyl ketone before you apply glue to it.  The mold release agent won't allow for the new seal to hold glue to it.  Not having a solid glue foundation underneath is what will cause the seal trough to rust out, as water will get in under it and never have  chance to dry or evaporate in a decent amount of time.


Thanks for the advice. Working up to doing it and it will be a great help.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: nostat on 30 July 2017, 07:57 PM
  Took the 450 out for a nice long drive. Since I got my sl I haven't driven the 450 much at all. Still fun to drive I kind of forgot since I got the sl.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Max-NL on 07 August 2017, 05:26 AM
50 shades of green! (Well, actually just two). Left sill is welded in and painted in green epoxy.

(http://i.imgur.com/i937YHD.png)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 11 August 2017, 06:53 AM
last week my radiator has gone leaking , the cooling block was britlle of old age so it needed a rebuild , yesterday i picked up my rebuild radiator and fresh radiator fluid for my 350 , and also a short stop at the dealership for for new hoses and clamps , and this morning i mounted Everything back on the car , also fitted a new waterpump and thermostat a few days ago , now the car runs about 8 degrees celsius cooler than before , at the MB-dealership the waterpump cost around 450 euro , but i bought a Febi waterpump at the local carparts shop for 70 euro , only a final check on all the fluids this afternoon and i call it a day  ;)     
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Squiggle Dog on 11 September 2017, 06:47 PM
I had my annual emissions test for my 300SD. The opacity reading was 1.9% (20% is the maximum permissible level in Arizona). This is on an engine with almost 343,000 miles and the ALDA system removed.

The employees didn't believe me at first when I told them that the odometer says 342,900 NOT 34,290 miles. They said that the engine still looks brand new and the exhaust is as clean as a brand new engine. I told them that these engines last a very long time when you take care of them.

They told me that they get a lot of old Mercedes diesels in, but they said that most of them are extremely dirty and oily and smoke a lot, and they didn't understand why my car's engine was in such good condition. That's the benefit of good maintenance procedures and not being a cheapskate.

(http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/attachments/diesel-discussion/144134d1505172794-post-your-emissions-testing-results-new-doc-2017-09-11.jpg)
(http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/attachments/diesel-discussion/144135d1505172944-post-your-emissions-testing-results-imag1403.jpg)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 13 September 2017, 03:56 PM
That's a brilliant result given the mileage, SD.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Alec300SD on 15 September 2017, 12:53 AM
On Tuesday, finally got around to installing a W115 long runner intake on my 78 W116 300SD.
Here's the link:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/388592-w115-long-runner-intake-install-78-w116-300sd.html

Wednesday, I degreased the engine bay, gave her a bath and replaced the PS rear view mirror with a good used unit.
The old mirror would not stay in adjustment.

Found a good used Bamboo MB-Tex rear bench seat at the Moss Beach Pick-n-Pull.
Installed it in the parking lot and recycled the old one in their metal scrap bin.
Unlike the non-original beige rear bench seat that came the car, this replacement bench seat is much safer for rear passengers...as it actually locks in place and is securely anchored.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Squiggle Dog on 02 December 2017, 02:40 PM
After having it for over 5 years, I finally installed the skid plate that s class helped me get (and surprised me by having it powder coated). I want to protect the oil pan from bottoming out, rocks, and curbs (so what happened to my roommate doesn't happen to me--he broke the oil pan on his W126 pulling into a parking lot). It seems that North American market W116s don't have mounting holes to install them, and the areas where the holes need to be drilled don't lend well to drilling. I think that right-hand-drive W116s built in the South African plant were built with mounting holes? I know JasonP had one on his North American 300SD, but it may have been added later on.

I attempted installing the plate a few times over the years but was too nervous about drilling holes into the body and messing it up. Finally I decided I just needed to get this thing out of my storage unit, so I went at it. It was challenging guessing where to drill, and then there is an angled piece of sheet metal inside the box tubing that made the drill tend to slip. I started out with a small bit and had to oval out the holes and cheat them until they were aligned correctly. Then I used a larger bit and bored out the holes.

I made some spacers to fit into the holes to prevent the box tubing on the body from collapsing when the bolts are tightened down. I installed them with sealant. I'm happy with the results, but it was nerve-wracking and took a lot of effort. An oil change can be done with the pan in place as there is an access hole. A socket doesn't really fit on the drain plug completely due to the angle, but a box wrench does, and then the oil will run out of the access hole.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: rumb on 03 December 2017, 10:00 AM
that bracket looks similar to the one for fanfare horns!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 03 December 2017, 12:01 PM
Nicely done!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Max-NL on 09 December 2017, 11:59 AM
Removed this from the 6.9 today:
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 03 April 2018, 03:40 PM
Quote from: Max-NL on 09 December 2017, 11:59 AM
Removed this from the 6.9 today:

Are you planning a full refurb on the rear subframe?  Would be nice if you can post a thread with some pics as I have this on "the list" as well for the next few years ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: celberg on 30 April 2018, 02:18 PM
Put new hoses on the fuel system under the bonnet. 15 pieces...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: avantbenz on 30 April 2018, 06:43 PM
Gave the girl a carwash yesterday....and of course it looks like rain today.

Never fails.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Diesel 617 on 01 May 2018, 08:16 PM
Swapped out the Brake Master cylinder without a bench vice and under 3 hours including clean-up

DIy brake bleeder, never step on a peddle again, and eliminate any chance or air pockets: http://faculty.ccp.edu/faculty/dreed/campingart/jettatech/bleeder/
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 24 February 2019, 10:47 AM
Woke up the old girl from her five-month, uninterrupted winter slumber. I've followed good advice from the forum, first pulling the fuel pump relay and cranking the engine until oil pressure was built up and held for a couple seconds, then starting as normal. She fired, as always, on first full turn. Then I gave the engine a few minutes to warm up, re-lubricate itself in all nooks and crannies, cycled the transmission through all positions to do the same, checked for any leaks just in case and then went for a nice 60km drive - grinning like a maniac all the way :)

The season's open!

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 07 March 2019, 08:37 PM
Quote from: ptashek on 24 February 2019, 10:47 AM
Woke up the old girl from her five-month, uninterrupted winter slumber. I've followed good advice from the forum, first pulling the fuel pump relay and cranking the engine until oil pressure was built up and held for a couple seconds, then starting as normal. She fired, as always, on first full turn. Then I gave the engine a few minutes to warm up, re-lubricate itself in all nooks and crannies, cycled the transmission through all positions to do the same, checked for any leaks just in case and then went for a nice 60km drive - grinning like a maniac all the way :)

The season's open!
That's great!  By coincidence I did exactly the same a couple days ago. Feels great to get back on the road.   ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Pete49 on 07 March 2019, 11:24 PM
I just swore at mine. Ignition won't go back and starter keeps running.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Peter on 08 March 2019, 12:08 AM
Swearing in German seems to work better for me  ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Pete49 on 08 March 2019, 10:50 PM
I do but failed anyway. Maybe a spring in the ignition switch has gone?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: OLDGOLD on 18 March 2019, 10:01 PM
Added European headlights to my 300SD. I had to re-route the cold air-intake by robbing the battery of its cooling duct and sticking the extended air-intake hose into the other end. You'll notice 3 vents under the passenger side headlight of the 300SD's for the battery cooling air-intake.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Pete49 on 18 March 2019, 10:36 PM
Trying to remove the complete ignition. Pushed in the lock pin on the steering lock but ran out of room while trying to pull it out. I'm sure its trying to aggravate me and succeeding.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TJ 450 on 19 March 2019, 11:52 AM
Yep, it's a bastard of a job. I find you need to drop the steering column and possibly loosen it at the firewall to get the freedom required to remove the ignition assembly. The ignition switches do separate sometimes after many years of use.

Tim
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Pete49 on 19 March 2019, 10:25 PM
Sure is. A few choice words that would get you direct to hell no passing go and out it popped. Found the cause of the key not returning from start, The guts of the electrics came away from the switch. Half hour later and fixed. Putting it back was another exercise in frustration but its all good to go now ;D. Also got rid of an annoying oil leak, just needed new hose clamps on the oil cooler line.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 21 March 2019, 09:53 AM
Gosh, so many valuable and ambitious projects!  I just drove mine around town a bit enjoying the nice spring weather.  Then I stopped at the Mexican market to pick up limes for my evening margaritas.  Limes are only US$1 for 2 lbs!  That's a lot of limes.   ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Mick74 on 22 March 2019, 05:40 PM
I've ordered over $1000 in parts and my car is going into the garage next week for suspension bushes, flexi discs and prop shaft centre bearing, full caliper rebuild/replacement, new brake hoses, new fluid of course, ball joints, steering coupler and fixing a leaking steering box, investigate possible misfire (possibly an exhaust tappet), fix an air con leak (if possible) check all coolant and other engine bay hoses and rubber components and filter change. Plus anything else that might crop up. With a 40 year old car, that could be anything.
Then over to the body shop to repair the outer sills and other mild underbody work. That should keep it motoring until the Autumn when we'll tackle something else.
In the meantime, this weekend I'm lubricating the window mechanisms, because they are slow, and cleaning and protecting the inside and bottom of the doors, which are thankfully rust free. I'll also be stripping, cleaning and lubing the sunroof mechanism, but that may have to wait till after the car gets out of the shop.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: irvine on 24 March 2019, 12:41 AM
Nothing done today as its Sunday (Sydney time), BUT yesterday the big w116 sailed through her rego with flying colours, only thing it needed was a break light bulb. another year of happy motoring for me.

neil.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Pete49 on 24 March 2019, 10:38 PM
I just sat and looked at how wonderful the W116 looks and smiled. Another great day in the life of W116 ownership.   8)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 26 March 2019, 01:47 PM
Been thinking for some time to sort out the chromework on the 450 particularly the bumpers. Having been to the platers with some other parts and been refused twice although I had been told that if they couldn't do what i wanted no one could. I didn't think the parts were that bad but no they wouldn't even attempt them and I had said I would accept their best effort. They apparently do a lot of restoration work and I think they are getting a bit picky. Any way wondering what I could do I thought I might try re-polishing them. Got a small kit, buffing wheels etc., and had a go. Amazing came up really well good enough to re-fit. Obviously not new but very bright and they are original which is a plus.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: rumb on 26 March 2019, 04:20 PM
Just a few days ago I was driving down the road looking at all the plastic bumper cars and realizing how much I like chromed bumper, especially considering the post DOT huge rubber bumper cars that came from that period.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: revilla on 28 April 2019, 09:17 AM
I think it was here where I recently read one fellow member repainted his grill.
I added that line to the to-do-list of the cars. His looked so nice, it inspired me to do one of mine this sunny Sunday morning...
Thank you.
Easy, simple, not expensive and with satisfying outcomes.
Attached the results.
Yes, the quality inspector approved the procedure... so he's eating tonight ;)


Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: irvine on 29 April 2019, 03:19 AM
First thing I done on mine was paint the grill and lower bumper grill black. I ended up painting the headlight bodies black and drenched the fog lights.  much better looking.
I notice your headlight bodies are darker, you paint them also??
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: revilla on 29 April 2019, 03:25 AM
Hi
No, I didn't touch the headlights. Maybe the previous owner did. I didn't notice it until you mentioned. Added to the to-do-list.
I still have to do the other car.
Yes, one of those 1-hour inexpensive things that enhance the looks so much. Worth it.
Thx for your feedback.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Squiggle Dog on 05 May 2019, 10:06 PM
I cleaned the underside of my 300SD as it was filthy.
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jDYpGd-0FP1K4sQp6TUTA7qdo8IGO5Nfm-bAZ_4vVe24V615vW_7fqLD-Hka-ZVifhBhiBKP91e3C9PIlo5pme_jBEW59FLZ-My1ng08wq1VLBhLjMKDs2nphKHCI2r-Uly3wJf1Viq2cIJj8a70qi_FC7p-U_PSXZ4InGVl7TPIZT-uwlgll8cNm-FIIeh8RFROhmUxBTg8zMt3S07zNBqVe-ca6tsBSwe5onTg_rZMCZmGKJDfmEIVl3sqfUg2_qaIZpy5lifu6tZBIk4hDj2-dbZwEi9Py4Hec0OSxopcw6LzLCaKXQKIO42qlEp-HYZQUGN0cdtin0gwXvqXJZyYM-UHUMSxDBv1z-BgPXcFDdykdpL5PQoGHtYzDzE9ab80KCoxB_eh1ThGljmHOoS0lHFES3EsUbby-xxYFw-D2ZKvSEonuGmg6m3D1PuhXHOoKXAemQ-tySribY2umv9fKsUSvs0ulrEx_NwUTOA0vqgj7zs71MjyJf6-JkLm2517Kh3DhRjlpjlBcQ7hU-v6CjqbCUaJm1AuHAqynPICdMY8GK5TpR1CDThzt1fWLZ-jZX-2WU_aTcPKH2eWFzrX8FKWXmV3qDvQbTttAOo9C0vhGh1rDxhK8cmQdmQ2Fo1Z3fYhzE_GGgRHLWBeit4TpcCAdgU=w800-h453-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1mjt3IsTEsUu54FdRYRvOZmI566AusX_FG0yHfSpjHE7_9I9Z4I4T1XlaUVRMhFxmIoHZSHQasDipJG5Kmj5rFGUNrob1YoimX85v2XiXkkcNxZvwW7_oHd5K64NUb5Y-tUDiMiSAKrpBtyTX6bC4lGsWT6J7uCYm3y-5YNN2zUvPf4U9kHAe2RNVOvmd9h4-dCKP3UjLD-z-5j9pmbzPTUi-DPcji9Er-eMMW5oLvvddd5sKk-Wg3rgloqjqr0lz5ZLnIbY5812iS_4dHOQxg9agT3C7B8FvNLKHiKF2RtgdxTjotSke-7T0IsSGHzaDK1SEm4NnRRLkuXJ4n5TwBrvd78g_86W7m4_qW-4N_bvW-vw7Zfj8UHpa3Z0sduXGg7X7OQRM-smmIESsusne0qLldGgY93Fc0YrWvo9uqETtdxKrA5MDHseP_SOrDIH_ilZXCNGVamgCjcgDJ5bEiBEieqjlapXhkuhkVU-_ekyeJP081M8W0IQoDpkziB6kSqEpF4f5ybKnN1qjxHtwPmHz0vWa6-gafwi-D5Y6XwVxrp57jNFz6Vi2paZzCWNkId_AiMVUmEefEbpl9uStHEJv1lhsqYQKZB__AfyW_21kt6Mia3KBBZDr3vQ7uiMZhGny8SPDkwrxcfgPZgFSHUDddcrs3Q=w800-h453-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-gewySXko_Q-HmuXIaQS0w7IL-kJ4Jc6Yiv8s7QX6dcH-qE9CgtaxLi1Gi6tQI_KWwsLhwIgenkPXTgkaKip8OixLkDpC7CVHGBxx0ejslp25xs-KRre68fgz-hNox89oLjeGfdMmLOvxOj7XkxhrSqoM9l8tUNIshxyu-U2t1er0oykvQZNMrR5CKTqFFVp8JlF-QgfGDZKr5Za7KK2i3Yruuo_aP8qsU_TLVOHTBJUpO2awzIFH87Bt-3TwmfMXAOSC7EirFZGPbqYmNsQTThduIF12h66PhgBUdja2DqXrqCfJSg_9LyeCoTEyYJjrOwxuLEDcSvxb8GjJ97efzGYNrzsvzG80PHnfw1rhtb0jhPo0okIZqiewbc4HrFfK44oaIFBhPh7-d2ZHPtljNqqB6R4o3o_W900OPhoinz85eMQVrgdqT4FTBEowJpN34VHVyveNNYYcSTM_QdBFPS5z6fVU71PSTTArWBs7jdCCrgCBT_9HIds9-3WAEMtV1tyYlH04jq6jORaOO6SUEve01gH_L7tV-cNs2V506gsWkk83rKpneh3OkaJaLw3GAUfKJMi2Wa1iLy0cI3hQg0ycXoXmiG0oClh6gkEJhyCXa4Ir4G6sYyrycU8Eqy-GxQW7sgveL-7QJVAKbZoDO1-07X_eAw=w800-h453-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oEXQZFx2lK2jLmOUqYz__Q477z8KCbl3VGviyL-w7YH5bwKrQMgN3aARyNqDS6Vw6H9nUXdtImzpDX3Mm0C_bZrNB97vkfAofRx_P6PGiFnULWFv-wRK3jATGSN5WDEepmGYSVP456zHN8KZOxM7fXV6oWqBmK4rBkThiICBskfBbz-XMJ_lAzVP1CT0tIuueWVeNJDatTqSRxll_LYtMlMMh1SOgX6YkujlQRKF84HI8kglMS2Co11IBcZvX_Gdz-Q4qedvaHWwprlw3pMBn0ID_38INRDue67ZtMgisS7KSE2wyWsE6VLluRrqXvqqXlCqKPu4mSgiWneAU-w2M_Kfm1esaL9Dmz0jE3Y44bQZEVjWhRRA3h6lMeozCT7n-bHWUOIRVSGHZuqjDHYZieMd00ZfyFayT0tt_X7uDXP-zmBz1M4hsIWwlEmwVJm3LCHy0jrfn31pjNKWUaScqg5PA0A3bqzAs0P3SzB11hc1atMLvP9LQLuOP7sK5y6_CT5mY1Dd7tnpIk_-fBiJYiFKafOzvjMci-rDxoaecAANdXmogCj7diRUeHY-42huLS9uSZqUGT8n2EAIK6wJG46VPYo5Z5UzQBiCQYkZrcfIB0mUQ0Zz5H6ErkSMYFZkQ0-sZkHB13L7GdeFD2ZZeEbgV_Ke0UM=w800-h453-no)
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0-bAarha9hP--TQkzFso4R8SLVXentE5fV1rjYXIxZbxiL6chhuUAz4WFbRDCzH0vCuh0J7YpB73QjfiVHMo6ZcispgD_nv1PMfBDQuBH5hGg0GMRrFsChEmmvM6cT_cy3N2RcEdCx-vTpB5ji-7KZjiTTlOCyLblDpok0P6d9XYsiwYF2zMOKoJYDW9FSFwVWdL8at3TPQBoXH9gyJ6sUDahXi1MkCluxeJPuGqUnhMnXZUp3wUkxIt3883GB2MwJI__jJ9W4cJzy7KU6vuLjm6PO3dwzHpRbnDuJXyHnxvsrUBQF6G5GMza8RpXC2pqiXRNNYH4Cvxf3IO1FtrjZef_wnxo5qlx7XmYW2Hxv4nPqrnyGjlZ6rwkG84Y2rKp5zB8_n09m479N4JYHXItA4xCD0uOIJpW7CFnf8cuSXtSzrZRdD6eXhZ2MxQwB8iS2OTSTvxzplSu0D44CveTRuPonsbQRAj_fyY-0_zd3U4dMAH9cUkoAw3MW3vQYp75l6MR23NR3N-QDwzy-sMi8QiGGUUziNrRHVezr0v4vdAc6leU_0NC_4keq_FsP0h8KCfZS2cWqWGJoYYdXDzet5V2dhs7BNoRhfZASfqY-YBsZOfgPiRNMIdqNZswjdJo0s-fShmLBwotw-QigKG__C2bUwJN6E=w800-h453-no)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Mergyver on 09 May 2019, 04:44 PM
Two things;

1) I disassembled cleaned lubricated and re-assembled the sunroof mechanism on my 300SD.

2) Sent my Becker Mexico out to be rehabbed and have a blue tooth connector attached.

The only thing better than cruising with the windows down and the sunroof open is to do it with a banging Becker streaming classic rock.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 10 May 2019, 03:14 PM



Recently I had the front screen glass and seal replaced and the rear seal,  I also had the front fender mounts repaired and at the time we
made the drain hole by the bonnet release grommet larger.  So I am confident I have reached a milestone, I am nearly 100% sure that the interior is dry, no leaks, it took along time (the sunroof will probably start leaking now) . The boot still has minor ingress but that's for another day.

I also had the engine looked at for the starting issues I was having by a retired Mercedes mechanic and its now driving very well, the starts have improved, no high cold idle or stuttery hot starts. It was just a matter of getting the idle, timing and fuel mix right, hot idle in drive is about 550 and fairly smooth.

I am delighted on both counts, the to do list gets smaller.

body work next

regards
john
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 10 May 2019, 03:40 PM
Quote from: w116john on 10 May 2019, 03:14 PM



Recently I had the front screen glass and seal replaced and the rear seal,  I also had the front fender mounts repaired and at the time we
made the drain hole by the bonnet release grommet larger.  So I am confident I have reached a milestone, I am nearly 100% sure that the interior is dry, no leaks, it took along time (the sunroof will probably start leaking now) . The boot still has minor ingress but that's for another day.

Nice progress!  it amazes me how these cars can let water in over the years :o  Tail light seals as well as trunk seal should fix the trunk water ingress.  Tail light seals is a bit tricky but it's a good opportunity to touch up all rust spots.  I would also pull the chrome trim and check really well for rust.  The only way to pull the trim is when you have the lights out, so for sure this is the time to do it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 10 May 2019, 04:48 PM

hi daniel

yeah i had the lights out any rust sorted and seals replaced, i think i need to take them out and fit them better thats still on the to do list, i might have it done when i do some body worrk during the summer.

good to hear from you

john
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 21 May 2019, 05:19 PM
I'm not doing much with Goldie recently, due to lack of time to get her out of the garage, but the last two jobs I've done were mixture, timing and idle adjustment and replacement of the ignition ballast resistors.

As for the mixture, she was running a bit rich and CO was at 2.04%, idle at 700rpm. After adjustment, CO is at 1.4% (it was fluctuating between 1.37% and 1.43% at idle, actually), so maybe a little too lean this time? We've set idle back to 750rpm, but surprisingly the idle adjustment screw is maxed out - possible air leak somewhere on the intake path?

Either way, we've cancelled out the 3* timing retard I had originally setup to run on 95RON as I've found out recently the E5 fuel in Ireland is at 97RON these days. She's setup for 98 as per factory spec now, and I'm using an octane boosting additive to account for that last missing one ;)

The ballast resistors were still factory ones, but I've spotted last week that the 0.4 Beru has developed a hairline crack along the body. I've replaced both on principle, with genuine Bosch parts. Funny thing - both the original and replacement resistors read +0.2 Ohm above their rated value (0.6 and 0.8, respectively).

I'm taking her on another road trip across Europe over the next fortnight, so that'll add another 5k or so Autobahn kilometres to the clock.

In the meantime, my W124 is the go-to car for getting my hands dirty. So far I've replaced the throttle body, radiator, water pump, spark plugs, AC condenser, rebuilt the headlight wash/wipe motors, serviced the diff and tranny... and it's running as my daily, at 200k miles :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: OLDGOLD on 26 May 2019, 09:21 AM
I drove about 15 miles this morning to go have breakfast with my daughter and when I arrived I realized that after I turned the key to shut off the ignition, the car was still running. So I opened the hood and pressed the engine shut-off button to shut the engine off manually. When I returned to the vehicle to drive home about 20 minutes later, I unlocked the door and all the doors unlocked immediately. My doors haven't worked for over a year and every time I shutoff my car, I only had about a minute before I lost all the locking vacuum. I was amazed to say the least!

So I drove home and the engine still wouldn't shut off. I opened the hood and inspected the vacuum lines and when I wiggled the brown vacuum line going to the shut-off valve on the back of the IP, the engine immediately turned off! I looked at the small piece of vacuum tube and it was swollen and soft and had seen better days. I had some extra tubing from one of my door lock diaphragms that I'd replaced a few months ago, so I replaced the old one with that. I started up the car again and after a minute I turned it off and it shut off instantly. I just tested the locks after 45 minutes and all of the locks popped up quickly and then sucked right down again after locking. Even the fuel door is staying locked! It used to re-open after about 30 seconds even after replacing the entire assembly a few months ago.

I am very happy to have it all working again and the fact that all it took was the replacement of a simple tube, makes me even happier! Great success!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: OLDGOLD on 07 June 2019, 09:26 PM
I learned after replacing the rubber vacuum hose connected to my vacuum shutoff valve, that there was oil on the hose meaning that the shutoff valve was on the way out. I ordered the part from my dealership, but since I'm cheap and have another baby on the way, I went the cheap route and installed an in-line filter. This way I'll know if oil is being sucked back into the vacuum system before it makes it into the ignition. I've heard of oil being found in the trunk diaphragms! The filter is definitely a little larger than I though, but it will work for now.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Janse on 27 June 2019, 04:38 PM
I have switched the Bosch carb with a Holley. Man what a difference! Runs really smooth and easy to adjust! And Since I am not a purist, I like the way it looks with the Holley airfilter, since you can see the whole engineblock now. Just a few minor details to sort out and I can have the car back on the road after 6 years in the garage.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jed on 09 July 2019, 08:23 PM
The 6.9 was feeling a little bouncy...over the last few drives seemed to get more and more bouncy.  Replaced all 5 spheres/accumulators. (first time since I've owned it for four years)

WOW!

Feels soon good! What an awesome drive.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 14 January 2020, 09:34 PM
I've changed both the small fuse box relays, and the fuel tank flap central locking grommet today. First time I've taken the cover off of the car in five months... Still held vacuum!

The relays were 43 years old at this point, the finest of the 1977 vintage. I've replaced them with fresh ones, only a few months old, more for peace of mind than out of necessity.

The fuel flap grommet, surprisingly, is a semi-transparent white now, not black. Looks better this way too.

Then back under the cover she went...

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/5os7iu7qoc1oh0j/IMG_20200114_214310~2.jpg?dl=1)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gavin116 on 15 January 2020, 02:28 AM
Hi Lucas


I think replacing those relays is a good insurance policy. I don't mind if the air con stops working, but I certainly don't want the fuel pump to go on strike... Where did you purchase such new stock?


Incidentally, I can't view your pictures running Safari, but they display okay with Firefox or Google chrome.


Can't wait for the summer to get my car out.


G
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 15 January 2020, 03:48 AM
QuoteWhere did you purchase such new stock?

Hi :)
I've bought them straight from MB in Germany at €32/each. They're made in Hungary, without any manufacturer markings on the housing. The originals were Bosch, made in West Germany. Time will tell if they're just as long-lived as the old ones.

I've bought a W124 headlight lens in the same batch, and it was also fresh stock - 2018, and made in Czech Republic by Automotive Lighting. The originals were either Bosch, or Hella.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 16 January 2020, 09:18 PM
280SE with 95,000kms. The windscreen washer didn't work, so took it out and it was seised and also the hose connection points were beyond repair, so I ordered an ebay 12V washer pump and installed it by cable tying it to the original one just for keeping the original part there even if doesn't work and now I have perfect windscreen washing!

Just wondering if all the electric window winders should operate at the same speed and if so if one is much slower it may need a lube or rebuild? The rear ones are fast the passenger one a bit slower and the drivers one quite slow compared with the others. Any help welcome.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 21 January 2020, 12:10 AM
I took my 280SE to my friend mechanics and put it up on the hoist then replaced the exhaust hanger rubber doughnuts. Also all fan belts. the alternator one is a total bastard, down low and hard to get at but we did it in the end, so all new belts done. There is a little upright strut that was rattly between the front wishbone mounting area and the engine mounting area that I don't know what it does, but it's a little rattly. The other side one is fine. Tried to tighten it but must be stripped. Does anyone know what his little strut is?

BCDC
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 21 January 2020, 12:30 AM
Quote from: BCDC on 21 January 2020, 12:10 AM
Does anyone know what his little strut is?


That's a  torque strut to help with reducing engine vibration.  Replace them both at the same time.  Not very expensive.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: rumb on 21 January 2020, 10:05 AM
They are hard to get off because the shaft spins when you are trying to undo the nut. Grab the shaft with some pliers.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Alec300SD on 22 January 2020, 12:45 AM
IIRC the engine shocks have flats ground into the shank so you can use a 7mm open end wrench as a counterhold.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: UTn_boy on 22 January 2020, 02:55 PM
Quote from: Alec300SD on 22 January 2020, 12:45 AM
IIRC the engine shocks have flats ground into the shank so you can use a 7mm open end wrench as a counterhold.

The originals and new old stock torque shocks have these flats you speak of, but most aftermarket ones do not have these flats.  Most people buy the aftermarket because OE ones from Mercedes are hundreds of dollars EACH......which I don't understand. 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 29 January 2020, 08:12 PM
During a drive recently a noise developed from the drivers side wheel area while cornering fast left sweepers. Steering was fine but a grinding noise was there. At home I checked the wheel bearing and also had a look around other steering parts. When I lightly tapped the metal disc rotor dust cover it was so close to the rotor and touched it, so I bent it away from the rotor a little and that was it. Went for a test drive and everything is perfect again. Such a simple little fix. I'm so glad when something that sounds drastic turns out to be not. Love this car.


Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: UTn_boy on 30 January 2020, 05:39 PM
Quote from: BCDC on 29 January 2020, 08:12 PM
During a drive recently a noise developed from the drivers side wheel area while cornering fast left sweepers. Steering was fine but a grinding noise was there. At home I checked the wheel bearing and also had a look around other steering parts. When I lightly tapped the metal disc rotor dust cover it was so close to the rotor and touched it, so I bent it away from the rotor a little and that was it. Went for a test drive and everything is perfect again. Such a simple little fix. I'm so glad when something that sounds drastic turns out to be not. Love this car.

I love simple fixes, too!  Though, I do have to wonder what caused this dust shield to bend in the first place.  It doesn't bend easily without being hit or struck from road debris or by running off of the road or into a ditch or something.  Any idea how it may have happened? 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 30 January 2020, 06:08 PM
No idea how it happened, there are no signs of impact and if there were it would be pretty obvious. The tolerance is quite small, maybe 3 or 4mm max but mine was about 1mm or less before the fix. I just set it back to where the other side one was. I do live in the bush here in Tasmania and my "road" or track is quite rough but the old Merc breezes up no problem and doesn't bottom out, however there is some gravel kicked up by the tyres so that may be it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 09 February 2020, 08:32 AM
I've refurbished the spare instrument cluster from my 350SE. Revived the old plastic a bit, cleaned up 30+ years of nicotine residue, re-greased all gears where appropriate, zeroed the odo and cleaned up all digits, repainted the needles with satin RAL2007. It's as close to new looking as was possible.

I've used isopropyl alcohol to clean everything, as it doesn't attack any of the dial paint. The paint was a custom-order 1K acrylic RAL2007 with satin finish (30% gloss) and is almost identical to the original.

It was a test run for the main event: the 450SE cluster refurb  (less the nicotine, and zeroing the odo).

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/2833b5ubml145x7/IMG_20200209_130547~2.jpg?dl=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/v61rrq1xsesgn9s/IMG_20200209_132203.jpg?dl=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/uk3icuobo4da0nn/IMG_20200209_132223.jpg?dl=1)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/7uliep2t7ehprhs/IMG_20200209_132342.jpg?dl=1)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 09 February 2020, 03:44 PM
Nice job indeed. Quick question, do you use KM's rather than Mph in Ireland after brexit?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: UTn_boy on 09 February 2020, 04:07 PM
It's so odd to see a full face clock on the right rather than a tachometer with small clock in the middle of it.  Looks great, Lucas! 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 09 February 2020, 04:57 PM
Quote from: BCDC on 09 February 2020, 03:44 PM
Nice job indeed. Quick question, do you use KM's rather than Mph in Ireland after brexit?

Ireland (Republic of Ireland, aka "Southern Ireland", alka Éire) has used metric since around 2004 officially for everything, and in science way longer than that. Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK, uses imperial.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 11 February 2020, 07:18 AM
As usual for the UK the whole system of measurement is a mess with a mixture of different systems. We don't use metric for road speed or distance but we do for weights and liquids. Some trades use a mixture of both. The Imperial system is for weight.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 15 February 2020, 04:15 PM
I think most users crack the $100 mark when filling up these days I certainly do. Those 96Litre tanks, Jesus wept.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Pete49 on 15 February 2020, 09:37 PM
Quote from: BCDC on 15 February 2020, 04:15 PM
I think most users crack the $100 mark when filling up these days I certainly do. Those 96Litre tanks, Jesus wept.

true that but the drive is to pinch a saying ..'Oh what a feeling'
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 16 February 2020, 11:27 AM
Quote from: BCDC on 15 February 2020, 04:15 PM
I think most users crack the $100 mark when filling up these days I certainly do. Those 96Litre tanks, Jesus wept.

Yeah...
Takes about $150 (US) / €140 to fill one of these up here. Doesn't last long at 16l/100km combined average either ;)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 16 February 2020, 12:01 PM
Finally got round to remaking the parcel shelf cover. Had several attempts which included the pvc edging to the first aid cover. Not happy with result obviously needs an industrial sewing machine. We have had in the house a lot of carpet fitting done that included quite a bit that was shaped and had the edge bound or "whipping" as apparently the trade call it. Asked the fitters about it and ended up having the parcel shelf cover done. All outer edges, speaker openings the opening for the first aid container and its lid. Really pleased with it and looks much better than the pvc edging. Think I will continue and replace all the carpet which is looking very much the worse for wear and definitely does not look good with the new paintwork. Not original of course but I do think it does look much better.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 16 February 2020, 12:32 PM
Quote from: marku on 16 February 2020, 12:01 PM
Finally got round to remaking the parcel shelf cover. Had several attempts which included the pvc edging to the first aid cover. Not happy with result obviously needs an industrial sewing machine. We have had in the house a lot of carpet fitting done that included quite a bit that was shaped and had the edge bound or "whipping" as apparently the trade call it. Asked the fitters about it and ended up having the parcel shelf cover done. All outer edges, speaker openings the opening for the first aid container and its lid. Really pleased with it and looks much better than the pvc edging. Think I will continue and replace all the carpet which is looking very much the worse for wear and definitely does not look good with the new paintwork. Not original of course but I do think it does look much better.

Pics please ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: rumb on 16 February 2020, 01:20 PM
Quote from: ptashek on 16 February 2020, 11:27 AM
Quote from: BCDC on 15 February 2020, 04:15 PM
I think most users crack the $100 mark when filling up these days I certainly do. Those 96Litre tanks, Jesus wept.

Yeah...
Takes about $150 (US) / €140 to fill one of these up here. Doesn't last long at 16l/100km combined average either ;)

Would be about $75 here for a full tank.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 08 March 2020, 05:07 PM
Busy day ;)

Changed engine oil and filter, coolant, brake fluid and diff oil. The diff took 10min to drain, and 90min to refill. Pushing 1.5l of 75W-90 gear oil through a 5mm diameter tube is a bloody chore.

As I was refilling the coolant, I've found a 40mm split in the outer layer of the upper engine-to-radiator hose. An original part that lasted less than four years / 15k miles. So annoying. For now it's reinforced with self-fusing silicone tape, until replacement arrives.

Unsurprisingly, the upper hose on my W124, also an original part, started leaking after 20k miles... So much for MB quality.

As for brands, I've stuck to my trusted ones - Liqui Moly, Mann and Comma.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: rob280sel on 11 March 2020, 01:56 AM
Nothing in 5 years, in storage at Grandmothers house.
Working and living in remote Australia has its down sides.
Up side, filling the old girl would cost well over au$200 out here at $2.50/Ltr.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Wolfgang Germany on 17 March 2020, 01:51 PM

Today I installed a fire extinguisher that has been in my garage for a long time. It is a NOS part that I bought many years ago. The test stamp coincidentally corresponds to the year of the first registration of my 6.9. :D I only got the holder for it a few days ago.

(https://s19.directupload.net/images/200317/j7u39d2i.jpg)
(https://s19.directupload.net/images/200317/du7ozzk9.jpg)
(https://s19.directupload.net/images/200317/3k7dfvlk.jpg)
(https://s19.directupload.net/images/200317/38vdg2me.jpg)
(https://s19.directupload.net/images/200317/9qr5c8o2.jpg)

And the racing duck was also happy!  ;D

(https://s19.directupload.net/images/200317/ycsul8vn.jpg)

regards
Wolfgang
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 19 March 2020, 09:55 PM
I went for a drive into the local town. The car started perfectly and idled away with that beautiful deep M110 note while I got myself organised and also let the chooks out because I had forgotten to do so earlier. The drive on uncrowded roads was perfect, ranging between 60km/h and 100 ish when ever I chose. Did a little shopping than back into the car. Drove back home a little more energetically for no other reason than I could. There is a turn off where I shift back into third for engine breaking with no need to touch the brakes then accelerate until I'm happy then slip it into top. A few km's at open speed limit then back into my road to home. Gliding over my slightly bumpy road made me wonder at how great the W116 really is. Reversed into the garage and let her idle for a little before saying thank you and leaving her rest for a while until the next time.

BC
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: revilla on 20 March 2020, 12:47 AM
Quote from: BCDC on 19 March 2020, 09:55 PM
I went for a drive into the local town. The car started perfectly and idled away with that beautiful deep M110 note while I got myself organised and also let the chooks out because I had forgotten to do so earlier. The drive on uncrowded roads was perfect, ranging between 60km/h and 100 ish when ever I chose. Did a little shopping than back into the car. Drove back home a little more energetically for no other reason than I could. There is a turn off where I shift back into third for engine breaking with no need to touch the brakes then accelerate until I'm happy then slip it into top. A few km's at open speed limit then back into my road to home. Gliding over my slightly bumpy road made me wonder at how great the W116 really is. Reversed into the garage and let her idle for a little before saying thank you and leaving her rest for a while until the next time.

BC


Nicely written!
Nothing like the rides on the peaceful country side in one of these wonders W116...

Me, I fixed the antenna on one of them. It wasn't going up/down all the way despite cleaning the ext shafts. Found old hard grease inside, quite gummy. After disassembling, cleaning and regrease, all is back to normal.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: adamb on 30 March 2020, 04:51 PM
Quote from: ptashek on 08 March 2020, 05:07 PM
Busy day ;)

Changed engine oil and filter, coolant, brake fluid and diff oil. The diff took 10min to drain, and 90min to refill. Pushing 1.5l of 75W-90 gear oil through a 5mm diameter tube is a bloody chore.


I topped up the diff today with this handy £17 handpump from Halfords. It was pretty quick. What were you using?

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 30 March 2020, 07:50 PM
Quote from: adamb on 30 March 2020, 04:51 PM
Quote from: ptashek on 08 March 2020, 05:07 PM
Busy day ;)

Changed engine oil and filter, coolant, brake fluid and diff oil. The diff took 10min to drain, and 90min to refill. Pushing 1.5l of 75W-90 gear oil through a 5mm diameter tube is a bloody chore.


I topped up the diff today with this handy £17 handpump from Halfords. It was pretty quick. What were you using?

Squeezing the bottle (with built-in 20cm long filler tube) while assuming some weird yoga poses, and cursing the world for my misery :D
I must get one of those pumps.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 11 April 2020, 06:50 PM
Prepped engine bay for respray!  Engine is out, and everybody convinced me that this is the time to do it.  It's almost ready to spray, just a few details to attend to.  All the hardware, brackets etc were replated.  It was pretty clean to start with but now it ought to look new.  Very exciting!  I just hope the engine runs right when it's in.   :o
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 28 April 2020, 09:25 PM
Finally got around to putting new engine mounts in the 280SE. With help from my mechanic friend "The worlds strongest man" we managed to get the old ones out with one side much easier than the other. All was accomplished with the car on the hoist and work done from below, jacking the engine slightly to give better access to the top allen screws and to get the new ones in. The difference in hight was astonishing, with the originals at least 20mm sunken over 42 years. A two hour job because of the pesky inside bolt on the exhaust side. We had to cut an allen wrench and use a ratchet spanner to turn it a tiny amount at a time to get the bugger out! Getting the allen bolt back in proved just as difficult. Anyway the old girl has new mounts and is running fabulously. Managed to go for a nice spin in the Tasmanian countryside on the way home as well which is what these beautiful old cars are built for. Bye till next time.

BCDC
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 05 May 2020, 06:07 PM
I've replaced the top engine to radiator coolant hose, and the rocker cover to air filter breather hose today. I did get new rocker cover gaskets as well, but didn't fit them just yet. One starts showing the tiniest signs of sweating, so better to have some spares at hand. I like my engine clean(-ish). I've also replaced the idle control screw a few weeks back.

The coolant hose was an original MB part, the breather some aftermarket brand, and both fitted around four years ago at this point. One developed a split in the outer layer, the other disintegrated into an array of cracks. Both now replaced with MB parts, and we'll see how long they'll last this time.

Sadly, the car made only a 100 miles this year and is unlikely to do any before August, which is when we were told we'll be able to travel freely within the country. It's torture :D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Pete49 on 05 May 2020, 10:36 PM
replaced a couple fuel lines to the fuel pump due to leakage of the 45 year old hose. Just junk I guess. LOL.
Still got a leak in that area though so crawl under again I guess.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 15 May 2020, 11:00 AM
Reinstalled the engine! No small feat. ;D

Now just got to hook it all up and hope it runs.   ???

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: revilla on 17 May 2020, 05:28 AM
Guess what happens to rubber under compression/vibrations for 41 years?



https://handbook.w116.org/Engine/110/22-211.pdf

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 25 May 2020, 10:54 PM
Well, I did the engine mounts a few weeks ago and they looked quite like to ones in the last post here. Anyway, today I replaced the front shocks with good gas units. Drives beautifully. Easy job but I do have a question about the rear ones. It's an SLS system that works fine but the rubbers are had it I presume and sometimes there is a knock over bumps. so can I still get hold of these rubbers and how hard is the job? Thanks in advance.

BC
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Pete49 on 26 May 2020, 10:48 PM
Well over the weekend I replaced the leaking fuel pump on my "75 450SEL and today went for a drive on this warm sunny day. Not looking forward to winter at all.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: celberg on 06 June 2020, 02:45 PM
Changed motor oil, filled up the automatic levelling system and changed oil in the diff. The diff oil (75W-90) had run only 3000 km but there was a singing noise between 70 and 80 km/h that I didn't want to hear. I went to my MB dealer and got the correct oil for my car, Schaltgetriebeöl A 001 989 89 03, BeVo 235.3. As written in an earlier post, it took 10 min to drain but this oil was much thinner and with my pressurized can it took only 5 min to fill the diff with 1.8 lit. Now the diff is quiet as a sleeping mouse.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Mick74 on 06 June 2020, 04:24 PM
I've got a first aid kit coming from Australia, courtesy of Kozzy, and new engine mounts ordered from the good folks at the Mercedes Classic centre in California. I still don't have my car back from the bodyshop, thanks to lockdown, but we did put this to good use as a few extra jobs cropped up and the shop just got in this new anti rust treatment which apparently gets in all sorts of places, so she got a good poke with that. I'll get the name of the stuff next week, when I hopefully see the car again. I was supposed to be leaving for France next Sunday for a 6 week, 4500 mile European jaunt, but that will have to wait till next year. And 98 octane is so cheap right now. Damn.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 17 June 2020, 10:42 PM
Hello everyone. I have that warm glow of satisfaction because I just installed a set of new injectors to my 1978 280SE this morning. Purrs like a kitten! Pretty easy job. The old ones were okay but didn't seat perfectly with the 42 year old rubber seals hardened, so it was most likely sucking a bit of air and had a very slight rough idle. All good now. Also last week I also changed the auto trans fluid and installed an new filter, so all the fluids are replaced now since I bought the beautiful old car.  I took it out for a test drive of course after checking there was no leaks and it runs perfectly. Got to love that feeling. Now on to the next few jobs. More rubber replacements.

BC
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 18 June 2020, 06:52 PM
Adjusted tranny control rod.  Now it's dialed in!   Amazing how sensitive this thing is.  But the car is running now like a scalded cat.  It's fun shifting at will with the gas pedal.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: midnitesunmerc on 25 June 2020, 04:26 PM
I finally got around to  changing my '77 280SE over to alloy wheels - my parts car came with them but I always figured they were too worn to bother with; however, I looked at them more closely a while ago and found that they weren't too bad after all, it was mainly just the centre caps  that looked really old. Also, I found out that one of our local metalworking shops was refinishing alloy wheels which was a big surprise to me because I thought this could only be done in the big cities which are a long way from where I live and the shipping costs would have been prohibitive. Anyway, I dropped the wheels off and they were sandblasted, painted and powder coated all in the same working day and they did a lovely job with them. I think they look better than the hub capped steel wheels and they are  certainly lighter, but after a 100 mile run the other day I know I'm going to need some harder brake pads as the front rims are dirty already - not a big surprise as the steel rims that  came off were caked with dust from years of wear.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: UTn_boy on 26 June 2020, 03:33 AM
Quote from: midnitesunmerc on 25 June 2020, 04:26 PM
I finally got around to  changing my '77 280SE over to alloy wheels - my parts car came with them but I always figured they were too worn to bother with; however, I looked at them more closely a while ago and found that they weren't too bad after all, it was mainly just the centre caps  that looked really old. Also, I found out that one of our local metalworking shops was refinishing alloy wheels which was a big surprise to me because I thought this could only be done in the big cities which are a long way from where I live and the shipping costs would have been prohibitive. Anyway, I dropped the wheels off and they were sandblasted, painted and powder coated all in the same working day and they did a lovely job with them. I think they look better than the hub capped steel wheels and they are  certainly lighter, but after a 100 mile run the other day I know I'm going to need some harder brake pads as the front rims are dirty already - not a big surprise as the steel rims that  came off were caked with dust from years of wear.

Mercedes used soft pads for a very good reason....to have maximum braking.  Installing harder pads will cause you to have to sacrifice some braking ability.  If the brake dust bothers you just install the dust shields that go on the insides of the wheels.  Some will argue that those will cause the rotors to warp from not being cooled, but the shields have vents made into them for this purpose, and in 10 years I've not had one set of rotors warp. 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Squiggle Dog on 20 July 2020, 05:40 PM
Quote from: UTn_boy on 26 June 2020, 03:33 AM
Mercedes used soft pads for a very good reason....to have maximum braking.  Installing harder pads will cause you to have to sacrifice some braking ability.  If the brake dust bothers you just install the dust shields that go on the insides of the wheels.  Some will argue that those will cause the rotors to warp from not being cooled, but the shields have vents made into them for this purpose, and in 10 years I've not had one set of rotors warp.

This is true. Mercedes used soft pads that make a lot of brake dust, but the advantage is good gripping power. I personally couldn't tolerate the brake dust, especially with whitewall tires, so I went to Akebono ceramic brake pads. There was a slight loss of that throw-you-forward with the tap of the brake pedal performance, but the braking is still very good, and there is absolutely no noticeable brake dust. Even after two years of use, I have found the brake parts, wheels, and wheel covers to be very clean. So, it's a trade-off and you have to choose between maximum braking performance and less dust.

Oh, and to combat early wear on the brake rotors, I had the new genuine Mercedes ones cryogenically frozen down to 600F below zero and then slowly brought back to temperature which results in a more wear-resistant surface. The cost was about $100 for all four. Time will tell, but after 3 years they still seem to look like new.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: w116john on 31 July 2020, 03:28 AM
hi all, hope ye are well

A few small jobs done this week, i just had the transmission linkage grommets replaced, it was not going in to park fully and i had to start the car in neutral, and the parking pawl was not engaging so that's working great again.

i had the water pump replaced late last year and since then the temp would rise to 90 when hot and parked, it ran at 80 on the road. prior to this it never went above 80. a consequence of this i think, is that the aav is fully closing,  car is running great idles nice and smooth.

its going in for some body work in a few weeks (the car is outdoors and by the sea and any rust that appears i get sorted relatively quickly) and i will have the window scrubbers/ brushes? replaced then as well they are deteriorating badly.

while i was in at the mechanics he was working on a 280ce, he brought me in to see it as it was so bad, i have never seen a car (that's being driven) with so much rust and bad body repairs it was shocking.

stay safe
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 30 April 2021, 09:43 AM
Why has this thread gone dark for so long?  Time to resurrect.  Therefore:
This stuff isn't very sexy but wow, what a difference. Big improvement in wind noise too!

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: celberg on 30 April 2021, 10:40 AM
Took the crome from the wheel arc and put mud flaps on instead.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: hamidagha on 03 August 2021, 03:14 PM
Thanks to one of our members Nathan from Australia, I have finally got myself a drivers side mirror and installed it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCDC on 18 August 2021, 05:46 PM
Well, I finally got the roadworthy certificate for my 280SE! It failed the first try because of very slightly perished fuel lines around the pump, filter and accumulator. Fixed now and got the paperwork. Now I can get "historic" or Special Interest registration as it is called here in Tasmania for just $205.39AU the first time with plates and $183.52 after that. Close to $400 cheaper per year. This allows 104 days a year use of the vehicle which will be fine for me as it isn't a daily driver. I also gave the old girl a good wash, came up a treat. Next on the list, plug leads that have been sitting in the shed for about a year, new door seals that have been sitting in the shed for about a year and chasing vacuum leaks in the door locking system. Any hints from the brains trust are most welcome with the latter.

BCDC
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: buki5 on 20 October 2021, 07:12 PM
Let's keep this going.

Today.  replaced left rear turn signal and tail light. Took a pic of my Odometer turning over 84K miles.  Also a pic of half a tank with 400 miles on the trip meter.  Love a Diesel.

Big outstanding issues
No dash lights
no cruise
HVAC wonky with new electronic controller (At least it works)
No A/C
Have to slam driver door
Steering is pooooooooor (lot's of play).
Seats look great but need repadded.
More chrome clean up inside.
Clean engine compartment
Replace Glow plug (s)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Mick74 on 24 October 2021, 04:31 PM
400 miles on a tank is a fantasy for me. The best I've seen is 306, and that was stretching it.
I think it's a good idea to photo milestones on our odometers. I took one last Christmas eve at 120k miles, so I reckon that I'll do the same this year. I have the car just over 3 years and have done almost 10k miles, so she's reasonable active.

Today I pulled the height adjustment lever to see does it work. It does, with what I described as sudden brutal efficiency. Not entirely sure if it will go back though. I also patted my car and asked her how she was. Does that count?

I won't follow Buki's example and list the jobs that need doing as I'm going to bed in 2 hours, so I don't have enough time!
But I have some work planned and will give an update on that when it happens.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TNNBENZ on 26 October 2021, 10:43 AM
   Today I am doing research about a control/push valve in alloy distributors...  I either do not have one or it is stuck and will not come out & play with me... ::)
Any advice anyone.  Couple days ago I degreased the oil pan area & the differential... Got my hair rolled up in the creeper wheels   :'(    Happens all the time......... :'(
Later will try to get the control/push valve to play or at least show its head......... ;)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 05 November 2021, 05:53 PM
Today i recieved my venetian blinds i ordered them at KMworks in Belgium they are also on facebook , the brackets are aluminium with metal louvres so its all metal and no plastic
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Nabstud on 06 November 2021, 08:24 AM
Looks good!!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Randys01 on 06 November 2021, 11:26 PM
Here's another contribution.

For a couple of years I've noticed my power strg  was leaking via the hi pressure hose on my 6.9 : just enough to be a nuisance.
So while I was having the spheres replaced   [ 15 years old...not a bad innings ] I had my mechanic fix it.  Within a few weeks I observed the pump itself was leaking. It possibly had been leaking for along time and the condition hidden by the leaking  pipe. 
Whatever, ...this was a night mare.!
 
In anticipation I ordered a seal kit for the Vickers Sperry pump.  Cut along story short I ordered two from 2 different places. Surprise surprise when they turned up and were quite different?..but the same p/no.
And so to removing the pump. I am ashamed to say it took 3 honest hours!   Anyway, got the sod out...down to the mechanic with the 2 seal kits and a couple of days later got it back  and with some reservation I put it back in. This was even worse.  Anyway 3 and a bit hours later she is in and working and OK.

There is a nasty little bolt that has a square head that fits in a slot at the bottom of the pump. J...C....what a mongrel........it's  finger tight thus far.  I've just bought a special long snout 13 mm socket and I will finish the job......but I can't believe nothing was straight forward.
.Half the problem is the hydraulic reservoir...the hi press pump..the cables/wires...the rhd washer bottle is even in the act?!!

Meanwhile, having had the cells replaced, I am now embarking on my wildest project..complete overhaul of the struts....a chapter for another day!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 07 November 2021, 12:42 AM
Quote from: Randys01 on 06 November 2021, 11:26 PM
Here's another contribution.

For a couple of years I've noticed my power strg  was leaking via the hi pressure hose on my 6.9 : just enough to be a nuisance.
So while I was having the spheres replaced   [ 15 years old...not a bad innings ] I had my mechanic fix it.  Within a few weeks I observed the pump itself was leaking. It possibly had been leaking for along time and the condition hidden by the leaking  pipe. 
Whatever, ...this was a night mare.!
 
In anticipation I ordered a seal kit for the Vickers Sperry pump.  Cut along story short I ordered two from 2 different places. Surprise surprise when they turned up and were quite different?..but the same p/no.
And so to removing the pump. I am ashamed to say it took 3 honest hours!   Anyway, got the sod out...down to the mechanic with the 2 seal kits and a couple of days later got it back  and with some reservation I put it back in. This was even worse.  Anyway 3 and a bit hours later she is in and working and OK.

There is a nasty little bolt that has a square head that fits in a slot at the bottom of the pump. J...C....what a mongrel........it's  finger tight thus far.  I've just bought a special long snout 13 mm socket and I will finish the job......but I can't believe nothing was straight forward.
.Half the problem is the hydraulic reservoir...the hi press pump..the cables/wires...the rhd washer bottle is even in the act?!!

Meanwhile, having had the cells replaced, I am now embarking on my wildest project..complete overhaul of the struts....a chapter for another day!

Randy in my experience I can say without fail that if I dread a job due to perceived complexity it is always easier than I thought it would be.  On the flip side if I think a job is going to be a cake walk it invariably turns into a shit show :o
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TNNBENZ on 07 November 2021, 10:42 PM
     Cleaned on my air flow meter assembly... ;)   I need advice on my post : Advice on a restart. It is posted in mechanical section  ::) Any help greatly appreciated....... :)   :)    :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TNNBENZ on 16 November 2021, 09:07 PM
     Ordered parts.......... :-\
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: TNNBENZ on 19 November 2021, 11:46 PM
     cleaned around the fuel injector housings so no trash will fall n when I install the new ones.   I pulled 1 injector & housing out and housing did not break.    I am overjoyed...  I read that they r prone to breaking & falling n 2 engine..........Hope rest come out as easy as that 1..........
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 20 November 2021, 08:19 AM
Today new powersteering fluid and powersteering filter i used kroon classic atf A . the steering is a little more smoother now but before is wasnt bad , i also had frozen up rear calipers so it was time for new ones i swapped the system bendix for system ATE becouse i got a good deal at the local parts shop who had 2 ATE rear calipers left for €100,- and ofcourse 2 new brake hoses 1 brake line and new rotor discs and fresh brakefluid the old fluid was verry dark , and after pumping more than 2 liters the brakefluid finally looks good , i did also the master cylinder to be sure i dont have to work twice on the brake system , finally some handbrake adjustment and job done , but still enough work to do on the W116 , next on the list is under the hood fuel leakage   
 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 20 November 2021, 08:21 AM
The early type power steering filter and partnumber
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 22 November 2021, 08:16 AM
Today and yesterday i solved the fuel leaking issue it was more the smell of fuel than actually leaking , but as aspected the rubber hoses were hard and break and crack when touching it , i also used a fuel injector kit i bought at Mister-Injector UK some time ago a verry nice kit but the only thing i missed in the kit was the green seal 1160780773 i bought these at the local dealership they dont cost much about 2 euro a piece , finally some under the hood cleaning , and someone peeled off my tricky dick sticker so i got a new one  :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 04 December 2021, 08:35 AM
Today a new floor kickdown switch , i never use the kickdown but the top of the switch was gone ? i noticed it last week when i put a new set floormats in the car , its not difficult turn the switch counter clockwise and you can pull the switch out , turned out i had a spare switch with the same partnumber A 000 300 00 41 and and a new rubber seal 115 997 06 40 that goes underneath the kickdown switch so it was a 5 minute job
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 23 December 2021, 06:52 PM
today new Accelerator Linkage Bushings , there was not much left of the old bushings (one round bushing is not on the pic but i have both) also new safety hooks for the hood the old ones needed help when closing the hood , its not rust around the safety hooks i got some copper grease on my hands when i used it for the four M6 bolts 

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: goldacre on 23 December 2021, 10:46 PM
Wow, nice work  8) Will need to find the post to get those link parts, have to remove valley off my V8 to find the vacuum leak I have at cylinders 7 and 8 so good opportunity to swap out the old linkage parts  :- :)

G
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 24 December 2021, 05:52 AM
Quote from: goldacre on 23 December 2021, 10:46 PM
Wow, nice work  8) Will need to find the post to get those link parts, have to remove valley off my V8 to find the vacuum leak I have at cylinders 7 and 8 so good opportunity to swap out the old linkage parts  :- :)

G
maybey this link is helpfull : https://www.ilcats.ru/mercedes/?vin=WDB11603212003528&function=getParts&class=1&catalog=040&aggtype=FG&model=116032&group=30&subgroup=001&language=en 

i ordered it at Niemoeler in Germany but they work with older partnumbers on some parts
https://www.niemoeller.de/en/w116/w116-mercedes-350SE/B028/300101
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 29 December 2021, 07:13 AM
In this period of too much free time i do some jobs on the 350SE some are necessary and some are not , the car got a litlle neglected in the last few years , today fresh oil and the usual Mann H 929 X oilfilter i also drained the oil cooler , i always use kroon oil products (overhere a local brand) i used kroon classic multigrade 15W40 to be precise i got it cheaper ordering ten one liter cans and free shipping on the recent black friday
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 01 January 2022, 06:57 PM
Best Wishes to all for 2022 , Today nothing to do so i did a litlle maintenance on the 350 so i replaced he V-belts becouse the double steeringpump belts showed a lot old age cracks , i replaced them with Continental belts from the local parts shop , i used for the 1974 350SE  1 piece continental AVX 10X950 for the dynamo/alternator/lichtmaschine and 2 Pieces Continental AVX 10X1184 for the steeringpump , and after cutting off approximate 70mm of the end tailpipes i fitted the new chrome exhaust end tips with the straight pipe look , its the first time in 30 years i have this type chrome exhaust tips normally i always buy the downwards bended end tips , but the first job in this new year is done 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 02 January 2022, 10:50 AM
Chrome tail pipes look very good and fitting them to the downward curving exhaust works. Always preferred the earlier exhaust, because of the chrome fittings, but when I replaced the exhaust it came with the downward curve. Never thought of sawing them off. Have you a source for the chrome fittings?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 02 January 2022, 03:07 PM
I bought the chrome tail pipes on a german webshop  : https://oldtimer-ersatzteile24.de/index.php?a=60001&bewertung_anzeigen=1#/dfclassic/query=Exhaust%20pipe&session_id=93d576b717dcaf0cf4d33e0fb9261676&query_name=match_and , they sell them in a few different sizes , i bought the 48mm without the bolt underneath becouse the tailpipes of my aftermarket rear muffler are almost 48mm , the 45 to 48mm has an bolt underneath
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 03 January 2022, 03:52 PM
Thanks will look. Must measure the tail pipes though. Mine are supposed to be genuine Mercedes spares. What you have done looks really good never liked the curved one but thought I had no choice.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 08 January 2022, 10:09 AM
Quote from: johnnyw116 on 02 January 2022, 03:07 PM
I bought the chrome tail pipes on a german webshop  : https://oldtimer-ersatzteile24.de/index.php?a=60001&bewertung_anzeigen=1#/dfclassic/query=Exhaust%20pipe&session_id=93d576b717dcaf0cf4d33e0fb9261676&query_name=match_and , they sell them in a few different sizes , i bought the 48mm without the bolt underneath becouse the tailpipes of my aftermarket rear muffler are almost 48mm , the 45 to 48mm has an bolt underneath
This is a great find!  My car had the straight chrome pipes when I got it.  Eventually I had to install a new Timevalve system with curved pipes.  The chrome looks so much better!  Looks like I'll be cutting the curved tips off in the Spring....     Cheers,
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: celberg on 09 January 2022, 08:50 AM
Changed the steering damper, engine mounts and gear box mount.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: fichtl500 on 09 January 2022, 02:06 PM
I'm in a hurry, i ripped the bowden gearbox  :-[
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: fichtl500 on 28 February 2022, 01:54 PM
PXL_20220226_085237907.MP.jpg
PXL_20220226_085240008.MP.jpg
PXL_20220226_085232143.MP.jpg
PXL_20220226_085243117.MP.jpg
PXL_20220226_093819452.MP.jpg
PXL_20220226_093804473.MP.jpg
PXL_20220226_093809889.MP.jpg       
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: McNuggets on 28 February 2022, 10:03 PM
excellent Fichtl! Are the fasteners etc. new, or did you have those bits replated? Did you coat/paint that casting? I like this style of starter which supports the pinion at both ends, do you know if it is compatible with the M100 engine?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: fichtl500 on 01 March 2022, 09:54 AM
Quote from: McNuggets on 28 February 2022, 10:03 PMexcellent Fichtl! Are the fasteners etc. new, or did you have those bits replated? Did you coat/paint that casting? I like this style of starter which supports the pinion at both ends, do you know if it is compatible with the M100 engine?


This starter is from my m110, the connecting elements are galvanized with blue zinc and the lid as well. The aluminum part is sandblasted and sprayed with silver metallic. Unfortunately I don't know if it is compatible with m100
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 06 March 2022, 04:35 PM
Finally got around to restoring the trunk carpets, something we've left out in the main resto (well, forgot to do more like...)

They look like new again :)
I've used a van lining fabric, typically used in camper/RV conversions. The colour and texture match is near perfect.

Left side carpet
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/4oengz8sxndg7t7/img20220218174356.jpg?dl=1)


Trunk/Tank divider
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/t49y69zclj2lzr8/img20220218174401.jpg?dl=1)

Right side carpet

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/ebpdttr7mngkh66/img20220218174409.jpg?dl=1)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 10 March 2022, 05:12 PM
@Ptashek Looks like a brand new trunk again !

Today a new wiper pulse sender relay and new fog light lens glasses for the foglights underneath the front bumper , one glass had a crack and the other glass was a little bit chipped so i replaced both and also for old/new color difference , i have the early type indicator stalk with the foot operated windshield/washer and when i press the foot switch the windshield washer works but the wipers dont and also the interval wasn't working for some time now , so i suspected the relay so i replaced the pulse sender relay and now it wipes 3 times when i press the foot switch and the interval is also in working order again , the MB part number is : A1158210063 and the SWF number is: IGE 601115 , i bought it at an local MB parts specialist and i could choose between one in an original MB package or one in an SWF package and both contain the same SWF relay's and the one in the MB package was almost double the price  ::) , this relay is located above the foot operated hand brake mechanism (i have an LHD)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 13 March 2022, 11:23 AM
Today a new set of wiperblades installed , this set SWF wipers i found is an big improvement towards the old set of Bosch wipers who had a big gap   
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 25 March 2022, 10:24 AM
Today nothing to do and i "made" an cassette tape storage box for the center console , i used 1 drawer from an 6 drawer cassette storage box , and with a bit of paint a piece of wood and some left over carpet it at least looks better than the yellowed piece of plastic it was before
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: goldacre on 31 March 2022, 07:04 AM
Roger Whittaker, absolutely GOLD  :-* nice tape tray job  :) good to see your Becker still going, mine died very slowly but was cool to use to my friends kids fascination  ...

'WTF is that'!?

'The good old days...'

LOL  ;D

G
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: rumb on 31 March 2022, 08:51 AM
I was in a friends shop a few weeks ago and there was a Rolls Royce with 2 big boxes of 8 track tapes in the trunk.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: sutekh on 01 April 2022, 07:47 AM
Today I adjusted the slip clutch on my sunroof, adjusted the hood bumpers so it would sit straight, installed warm-white LED interior bulbs, and most importantly, finished remediating the trunk rust on both sides of my "rust free car" <-- seller's sworn affirmation.

Thankfully, nothing had rusted through, and I believe I've addressed the water ingress (plugged drains and a disconnected fuel door hose). Steps to resolve included a) strip the paint, b) soak in evapo-rust for 12hrs, c) apply KBS Rust Blast (acidic galvanizer), d) two coats of POR-15, e) two more coatings of POR top coat feathered in (not pictured).

I hate rust >:(

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 20 April 2022, 10:59 AM
Last week i noticed that my fuel pump was leaking petrol , i still have the original D-jetronic fuel pump , and i knew that there were two O-Rings in the front section of the pump that can couse the leakage , so i replaced them after finding the measurements of these (33X2mm) O-Rings on this site https://jetronic.org/de/d-jetronic/benzinpumpe , the inside of the pump looked clean and rustfree but the outside of the pump and the brackets looked terrible and even more worse after cleaning them , so today some cleaning and spraypaint for the fuel pump and the brackets and the protective cover are sandblasted and powdercoated 
and i also found in a local webshop 11.5mm cloth covered fuel hose for between the pump and damper , i also have 11mm hose so i take a look what fits the best , and i also have cloth covered 8mm hose for between the pump and filter and from filter to the metal fuel line so it all has the same look    
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gurrier on 21 April 2022, 03:36 AM
Hi JohnnyW116,

That is very interesting. You have done a very nice job in refurbishing the parts.
My preference had been to sourse a new Nissan pump as suggested on another thread but supply issue arose.
I may end up, short term at least, putting my original pump into service.
Did you sourse the O rings from Mercededsourse or an EU source.

Regards,

Bill
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 21 April 2022, 05:40 AM
Hello Gurrier  , 

Thank You ! the pump was still running smooth and no issues at idle speed or driving or starting the car , and after removing the front section the inside looked really good so i thought lets go looking for some fresh O-Rings , so i found the measurements of the O-Rings on the internet 33x2mm offcourse made from petrol resistant material like Viton , i bought these local at Technirub an rubber parts specialist   
  https://www.technirub.nl/o-ringen-en-o-ring-snoeren/o-ringen-viton-80-shore-a.html?snoerdikte_num=2-13&inwendige_diameter_num=33-1160&p=1 , i saw the tread about the Nissan pump , and i think it's not an bad idea to buy a spare new pump in the near future now that there still available 

Greetings : John               
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gurrier on 21 April 2022, 12:54 PM
JohnnyW116

Many thanks for reply.  I have so far been unsuccessful sourcing the Nissan pump.

Regards,

Bill
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 21 April 2022, 01:38 PM
Hi Gurrier  , 

i noticed that all these Nissan 17011-p7211 pumps seems to be only for sale on ebay
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2047675.m570.l1313&_nkw=17011-P7211+&_sacat=0 

Greetings : John                 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gurrier on 21 April 2022, 02:06 PM
Yes, saw those but shipping varies between $6 and $117 so there is something wrong.   I am trying through Nissan dealership before I go ebay route.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCK1963 on 26 April 2022, 04:53 AM
Repaired the distance counter.
It already started to fail last year but after some kilometers apparently changed its mind and kept on working without issues.
Last weekend it seized again and I decided to fix it on a rainy sunday.
The bad guy was again the grey cast toothed wheel which went loose on its shaft, I could rotate it by finger in still assembled condition.
I proceeded as repeatedly illustrated in different Mercedes forums and pushed the now pretty loose shaft out with a toothpick. It is not fixed like e.g. on W123 units.
Murphy had it that the tooth pick slipped out and I took the chance to remove all 6 number wheels with tweezers and cleaned them with a little stiff brush and ethanol. Some numbers were nearly unidentifiable from dark dust. In order to have access to the wheels it is necessary to loosen the shaft with the six little grey plastic cogs at one end which sits in front of the large counter. With the main number wheels removed I was able to clean the still assembled short distance counter wheels also with a long brush and ethanol from above. The wheels could be rotated by carefully pressing the reset lever to the point where the wheels can rotate more or less free. It takes several times of applying ethanol on the wheels and check by dipping the brush on a white piece of cloth until the solvent is nearly colorless.
I made a slight mark into the shaft where the cast cog sits with a wire cutter to fix the cast cog. Re-inserting the cleaned wheels, setting the mileage and re-fixing the front shaft is a bit annoying.
I was not entirely confident that I would get it done but eventually it worked out and the unit stood the test with an electric drill.
Didn't know that the lower right wheel was white  8) .
Nice view:
IMG_6547 2.jpg
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 26 April 2022, 09:30 AM
Mine has gotten the greatest gift of all - to be driven!  Sadly my daily driver (GL450) was demolished from behind by an 18-wheeler a few days by an ago.  Nobody hurt, thank god, and I'm looking for a replacement. But in the meantime the 6.9 is promoted to daily driver.  What an odd world we live in.  Cheers,
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 01 May 2022, 06:36 AM
Today the pump is back on the car and works fine without leaking petrol , but there is one more seal/o-ring at the electromotor and the pressed on housing that can couse leaking in the future , but for the time being it works fine , but i also bought yesterday on ebay a new Nissan 17011-p7211 pump to be on the safe side with availability and to have a brand new spare pump standby
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 04 May 2022, 06:18 AM
Quote from: goldacre on 31 March 2022, 07:04 AMRoger Whittaker, absolutely GOLD  :-* nice tape tray job  :) good to see your Becker still going, mine died very slowly but was cool to use to my friends kids fascination  ...

'WTF is that'!?

'The good old days...'

LOL  ;D

G
Thank you  , and Roger Whittaker is indeed absolute 24 carat Gold ,i remember in the early 90's i went to Essen in Germany to a car show , and in Essen i saw giant billboards almost everywhere with Roger Whittaker on it , and i never knew up to that moment he also sings in German , but a Becker is on the wishlist i have a 80's Blaupunkt in my W116 and i also have a "modern" radio with usb out of sight in the glove compartment (mounted with an self made bracket on the upper side of the glovebox) the blaupunkt has separate speakers so i can use both radio's



Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: SteveDuNord on 09 May 2022, 03:53 PM
Had some rain, which helped trace a leak in the passenger footwell. Had thought it was a hole in the bulkhead but thankfully not.

(https://i.postimg.cc/XJHZGgK3/leak2.jpg)

New windscreen seal on the horizon.

(https://i.postimg.cc/YSXgYkkJ/leak3.jpg)

Is it meant to pool up like that?

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 09 May 2022, 04:10 PM
Quote from: SteveDuNord link=msquote author=SteveDuNord link=msg=153489 date=1652129630]

Is it meant to pool up like that?



Yup it will pool there but you need to seal the new gasket between the window and the gasket with 3M Glazing and Bedding Compound when you install the new gasket.  The window design makes it drop down in the corners so pooling is unavoidable.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: SteveDuNord on 10 May 2022, 04:01 AM
Quote from: daantjie on 09 May 2022, 04:10 PM
Quote from: SteveDuNord link=msquote author=SteveDuNord link=msg=153489 date=1652129630]

Is it meant to pool up like that?



Yup it will pool there but you need to seal the new gasket between the window and the gasket with 3M Glazing and Bedding Compound when you install the new gasket.  The window design makes it drop down in the corners so pooling is unavoidable.

Good to know.
I'm tempted to have a professional do the job, but I'd like the opportunity to deal with any corrosion revealed before refitting. This will take some thought.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: rumb on 10 May 2022, 07:19 AM
Great vid on windshield install, would also apply to rear.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4hAT0aSIyM
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: fichtl500 on 13 May 2022, 03:25 PM
I've tried so hard and it's not perfect: /


Trunk hinges:

PXL_20220513_152634701.MP.jpg
PXL_20220513_152644904.MP.jpg

Brake pedal:

PXL_20220513_163859053.MP.jpg
PXL_20220513_163907706.MP.jpg   
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 14 May 2022, 07:33 AM
This morning i did an differential oil change , the drain plug came loose the easy way but with some force , but the filler plug was a bit rounded out so after few taps with an chisel this one also came loose , i used kroon classic gear MP 90 to refill the differential , the new filler plug and sealing ring were only a few euro at the dealership so total spent about €25 euro , a cheap DIY job to do if you can resist the terrible smell of the Diffential oil  ;) 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BigGreenMachine on 16 May 2022, 05:05 PM
Just back from the shop to fix a bad window regulator, leaky vacuum lock, and sticky door latch - all in the same door!

Polish and wax for good measure. 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: rumb on 16 May 2022, 06:42 PM
That's a beauty!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 16 May 2022, 06:46 PM
Quote from: rumb on 16 May 2022, 06:42 PMThat's a beauty!

Indeed that green is fantastic ;)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: SteveDuNord on 17 May 2022, 02:59 AM
Is that a solid colour? I love it!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 17 May 2022, 04:34 AM
Cool color  8) looks like 825 tiefgrün
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 17 May 2022, 06:35 PM
Not today, but two weekends ago I've taken the old lady out the garage and drove over 100km just for the sake of going for a drive. And topped it off with a full tank (after selling both kidneys on the black market...).

Need to start thinking about new tires as well. Half thread left of the amazing Dunlops, but they're getting old after 6+ years. No major deterioration, sidewalls are perfect but the contact patches are starting to show some small crazing in the rubber.

Truth be told, I much prefer driving either of my W124s these days. The refinement over just 9 years separating my 200T and the 450SE is incredible. Goldie isn't seeing much use. I thought about selling her, for about 30 seconds, and then I came to my senses again :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BigGreenMachine on 19 May 2022, 01:09 PM
Quote from: SteveDuNord on 17 May 2022, 02:59 AMIs that a solid colour? I love it!

Yes! Solid green. Thanks!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BigGreenMachine on 19 May 2022, 01:11 PM
Quote from: johnnyw116 on 17 May 2022, 04:34 AMCool color  8) looks like 825 tiefgrün

I don't know the official name but it's for sure a deep green. Thanks!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 20 May 2022, 12:31 PM
Quote from: ptashek on 17 May 2022, 06:35 PMNot today, but two weekends ago I've taken the old lady out the garage and drove over 100km just for the sake of going for a drive. And topped it off with a full tank (after selling both kidneys on the black market...).

Need to start thinking about new tires as well. Half thread left of the amazing Dunlops, but they're getting old after 6+ years. No major deterioration, sidewalls are perfect but the contact patches are starting to show some small crazing in the rubber.

Truth be told, I much prefer driving either of my W124s these days. The refinement over just 9 years separating my 200T and the 450SE is incredible. Goldie isn't seeing much use. I thought about selling her, for about 30 seconds, and then I came to my senses again :)


ptashek, would be interesting if you could elaborate regarding your statement .... "Truth be told, I much prefer driving either of my W124s these days. The refinement over just 9 years separating my 200T and the 450SE is incredible".
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 20 May 2022, 04:49 PM
Quote from: Jan S on 20 May 2022, 12:31 PMptashek, would be interesting if you could elaborate regarding your statement .... "Truth be told, I much prefer driving either of my W124s these days. The refinement over just 9 years separating my 200T and the 450SE is incredible".

Sure :)

Simply put, comfort wise the W124 (the 200T in this case) outclasses my 450SE in every respect. Cabin noise, road feel, seat comfort. The 200T is just as serviceable as the 450SE, but parts supply is much better with thousands still on the road. Where it lacks is torque (140 v 370Nm), power (109 v 222HP) and - maybe - looks. End result? 7.5k miles between the two W124s in 2 years, and less than 700 in the W116.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gurrier on 21 May 2022, 03:16 AM
Not having driven a W124 for some time I would postulate that my 2011 W204 C200CDI drives better.
If logic prevailed none of us would probably run a W116 given the advancement in the driving experience in modern vehicles.  I also now have a 1978 Vauxhall Viva E, rubber floor covering, driver's only sun visor, straps as door pulls.  The other end of the spectrum from the 350SE.  Its all about the sometimes intangiable experience and what the individual gets out of being the owner their particular vehicle.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 21 May 2022, 12:46 PM
In practical terms, it's just different patterns of use. When I go across Europe on my own, it's always in the W116. When I need to pop over to the shops, or schlepp the entire gang and half the house on a camping trip, it's in the W124.

As demonstrated by this pic...
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/rvknxww0r3rb7we/sls_for_the_win.png?dl=1)

As far as the refinement, I think the leap from the 70s cars to the 80s cars was immense.

I've never driven any of the classic English marques, so can't comment, but looking at them it seems by the time the W116 came out, they were still stuck in the 1950s.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 23 May 2022, 05:12 PM
Today i have taken out the fuel strainer/tankfilter , last time i had no tool for it so i did a bit of searching on the internet and i found this 46mm oilfilter socket special for Mercedes Actros , Atego and Axor Trucks , but it also works perfect for fuel strainers like it's made for it , and it was not expensive by the way i paid €37,- Euro for it , and i also noticed that the old fuel strainer is made of copper/brass and much more solid than the new ones the dealership gives you these days , the strainer looked fine and clean but the o-ring was hardened and brittle
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 25 May 2022, 05:25 PM
Quote from: ptashek on 20 May 2022, 04:49 PM
Quote from: Jan S on 20 May 2022, 12:31 PMptashek, would be interesting if you could elaborate regarding your statement .... "Truth be told, I much prefer driving either of my W124s these days. The refinement over just 9 years separating my 200T and the 450SE is incredible".

Sure :)

Simply put, comfort wise the W124 (the 200T in this case) outclasses my 450SE in every respect. Cabin noise, road feel, seat comfort. The 200T is just as serviceable as the 450SE, but parts supply is much better with thousands still on the road. Where it lacks is torque (140 v 370Nm), power (109 v 222HP) and - maybe - looks. End result? 7.5k miles between the two W124s in 2 years, and less than 700 in the W116.

Thanks!

I believe I see what you mean. The W116 looks great, is rock solid but close to 50 years ... says it all. But I love the car ... and strangely, the faster I go the more stable it gets (up to a certain point).

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 07 June 2022, 04:54 AM
Last week I renewed the hood isolation pad ... AND added a new tool to my tool box  ;D

The car and the engine bay looks so much better, I'm quite pleased with the job and the results  8)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: SteveDuNord on 07 June 2022, 05:33 AM
Nice job. Mine was renewed by a previous owner but could probably use a new one. It flakes onto the engine bay. Not the best design.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 07 June 2022, 10:26 AM
Quote from: Jan S on 07 June 2022, 04:54 AMLast week I renewed the hood isolation pad ... AND added a new tool to my tool box  ;D

The car and the engine bay looks so much better, I'm quite pleased with the job and the results  8)
Beautiful!  That pad makes such a difference.  Like SteveDuNord, mine was replaced by previous owner, thank god.  Happy motoring!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 07 June 2022, 01:11 PM
Looks factory fresh again ! i did mine about 9 years ago and i remember very well i was peeling of the old insulation for hours
 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 08 June 2022, 10:05 AM
Over the weekend I did a first "major" test-drive since I closed several items on my to-do list. Total 820 km (510 miles) at a speed of mainly 90-120 km/h (55-75 miles/h).

Car performed beautifully. Started immediately cold and warm, although rpms still too high when warm (800 should be 600 ... need to look into that). Very stable and tight at relative high speed (75+ miles/h).

Average consumption 1,54 liter/10 km (15,27 miles/gallon) is the best I have ever measured (for that car).
 
Only a few things to put the finger on:
-   I missed the AC, but the sunroof worked flawlessly
-   Minor play in the steering box

Closed items:
-   Renovated radiator (disassembled, sandblasted, flanges re-welded, new register, painted)
-   New coolant hoses and clamps in engine bay (except return heater-to-engine, and expansion tank to lower part of radiator ... will leave those to later this fall)
-   New thermostat
-   New thermostat housing incl. bolts and sealing
-   New engine temp/coolant temp sensor
-   New coolant
-   New ignition cap and rotor
-   New "100-hose" (the breather hose from idling house to air intake left and right)
-   New rubber boots and vacuum lines around WUR and idling house
-   Cleaned and tested aux air valve
-   Cleaned idling house incl. new seal
-   New injectors incl. seals
-   New windshield wipers
-   New hood isolation pad
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Nabstud on 09 June 2022, 06:35 AM
Nice work, good to see all the effort paid off!!!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 09 June 2022, 10:29 AM
Quote from: Jan S on 08 June 2022, 10:05 AMOver the weekend I did a first "major" test-drive since I closed several items on my to-do list. Total 820 km (510 miles) at a speed of mainly 90-120 km/h (55-75 miles/h).

Car performed beautifully. Started immediately cold and warm, although rpms still too high when warm (800 should be 600 ... need to look into that). Very stable and tight at relative high speed (75+ miles/h).

Average consumption 1,54 liter/10 km (15,27 miles/gallon) is the best I have ever measured (for that car).
 
Only a few things to put the finger on:
-   I missed the AC, but the sunroof worked flawlessly
-   Minor play in the steering box

Closed items:
-   Renovated radiator (disassembled, sandblasted, flanges re-welded, new register, painted)
-   New coolant hoses and clamps in engine bay (except return heater-to-engine, and expansion tank to lower part of radiator ... will leave those to later this fall)
-   New thermostat
-   New thermostat housing incl. bolts and sealing
-   New engine temp/coolant temp sensor
-   New coolant
-   New ignition cap and rotor
-   New "100-hose" (the breather hose from idling house to air intake left and right)
-   New rubber boots and vacuum lines around WUR and idling house
-   Cleaned and tested aux air valve
-   Cleaned idling house incl. new seal
-   New injectors incl. seals
-   New windshield wipers
-   New hood isolation pad
Great job!  I've come to believe that the cooling system work is an underappreciated thing - car can still seem to run fine, but when it's all perfect it really sings!  You're all set to drive across the desert.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 17 June 2022, 05:35 AM
Two months back i replaced the o-rings/seals of my fuel pump no problem there , but i noticed again the smell of fuel , and now the pump leaks around the plastic part were you connect the power supply cables on the fuel pump , probably the third seal/o-ring located under the pressed housing couses this leak ? i knew this could happen i realise 2 new seals is no rebuild , but i didn't expect it would have gone leaking again that soon , so used the brandnew Nissan replacement pump i recent bought on Ebay in case the old pump gone leaking again, so today i fitted the new Nissan 17011-P7211 replacement pump under the car, the strainer and the strainer hose i have already replaced a few weeks ago , the Nissan fuel pump was plug and play and the restart was a matter of seconds and this pump is even a bit more silent than the old original fuel pump , i hope that now i am done with the fuel leaking issues
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Gpapaniko on 17 June 2022, 08:00 AM
This week the fair lady 280SEL got new bottom window rubbers on all 4 doors, a new old AC Condensor and a replacement diff.  She's had a fair but done in her first 6 months with me and we now have got her into a great Sunday Driver condition.

We have spoilt her with the following

 - new injectors
 - rebuilt front callipers, 4 new rotors
 - new windshield rubbers front and back
 - replaced the delimanited rear screen
 - unstuck all four sticking door latches
 - greased and serviced all four door hinges
 - rebuilt the rear backrest
 - rebuilt the AC system, new compressor, tx valve, hoses, Condensor
 - got the Becker Mexico radio working after sourcing the factory amp and harness
 - new flasher relay
 - cut and polish side windows
 - 5 new tyres
 - and then the work this week

Lots of You Tube (Kent Burgsman is my new hero) to get about half of this done at home

Happy weekend all
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: sutekh on 18 June 2022, 06:51 PM
Safety last in my garage! Works great BTW...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: mrkozzy on 18 June 2022, 10:09 PM
Quote from: Gpapaniko on 17 June 2022, 08:00 AMThis week the fair lady 280SEL got new bottom window rubbers on all 4 doors, a new old AC Condensor and a replacement diff.  She's had a fair but done in her first 6 months with me and we now have got her into a great Sunday Driver condition.
Hi Gpapanilo.  I would appreciate a picture of the "bottom window rubbers" you replaced if thats at all possible.
               Also seeing you are in Oz, where did you source these from?
               I have a feeling I need to do the same.

Regards

Kozzy   
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Gpapaniko on 29 June 2022, 07:53 AM
Quote from: mrkozzy on 18 June 2022, 10:09 PM
Quote from: Gpapaniko on 17 June 2022, 08:00 AMThis week the fair lady 280SEL got new bottom window rubbers on all 4 doors, a new old AC Condensor and a replacement diff.  She's had a fair but done in her first 6 months with me and we now have got her into a great Sunday Driver condition.
Hi Gpapanilo.  I would appreciate a picture of the "bottom window rubbers" you replaced if thats at all possible.
              Also seeing you are in Oz, where did you source these from?
              I have a feeling I need to do the same.

Regards

Kozzy   

Hi Kozzy

Sourced them from Pelican Parts.

https://www.pelicanparts.com/cgi-bin/smart/more_info.cgi?pn=116-725-00-65-MBZ

You have to cut the rear ones to size but the front ones are a fit.

You need to remove the door card and have the window wound all the way down to remove the chrome piece as the rubber and chrome are on the same clips



Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Gpapaniko on 29 June 2022, 07:55 AM
Quote from: Gpapaniko on 29 June 2022, 07:53 AM
Quote from: mrkozzy on 18 June 2022, 10:09 PM
Quote from: Gpapaniko on 17 June 2022, 08:00 AMThis week the fair lady 280SEL got new bottom window rubbers on all 4 doors, a new old AC Condensor and a replacement diff.  She's had a fair but done in her first 6 months with me and we now have got her into a great Sunday Driver condition.
Hi Gpapanilo.  I would appreciate a picture of the "bottom window rubbers" you replaced if thats at all possible.
              Also seeing you are in Oz, where did you source these from?
              I have a feeling I need to do the same.

Regards

Kozzy   

Hi Kozzy

Sourced them from Pelican Parts.

https://www.pelicanparts.com/cgi-bin/smart/more_info.cgi?pn=116-725-00-65-MBZ

You have to cut the rear ones to size but the front ones are a fit.

You need to remove the door card and have the window wound all the way down to remove the chrome piece as the rubber and chrome are on the same clips





I'm also Melbourne based
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 30 June 2022, 05:42 PM
Today I replaced the two ballast resistors, as part of my preventive maintenance.

They looked old, cracked and "used", hence I replaced them.

My understanding is that the ballast resistors help to regulate the current and the voltage in the ignition system, thereby protecting individual components such as battery, coil, etc.

Is that correct?

I also cleaned the area, giving a good indication of how the rest of the engine bay could present itself, with a little effort.  ;D
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 30 June 2022, 08:22 PM
It limits ignition coil current, so that it doesn't burn itself out. I'm not sure about the voltage part on our cars, as they're wired in series.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: sutekh on 02 July 2022, 06:30 PM
For the sake of this post, more like "What have you done for your W116 this week?"

I've been slowly amassing parts to completely rebuild the brakes on my 300SD and install new tires / switch to steelies & hubcaps while I was at it. I started this process 3 days ago, and finally finished last night at 2am (just in time for a few hours of sleep before cars and coffee this morning!)

All said and done, the butchers bill was as follows:

Brakes:

Wheels / Tires:

Aside from a a seized compression fitting I had to cut off and re-double flare, all went more or less according to plan. I put 50mi on the car this morning, and it rides and stops well. Looks okay too IMO  8)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: revilla on 03 July 2022, 01:46 AM
Very impressive. Good job there. I never thought of hubcaps unpainted. I love them. I think partially due to the fact they are on an astrasilber body. You're giving me ideas. Well done with this project.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 03 July 2022, 06:55 AM
Nice work! And car looks great with whitewalls and hubcaps!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 04 July 2022, 05:39 PM
I gave the old man new carpet floor mats today.

Looks ok, but mats closer to the original carpet - i.e. without the ribs - would have been a tick better.

Main purpose is to protect the original carpet which is in stunning condition considering the age of 48 yrs. Good quality!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 05 July 2022, 04:49 AM
Quote from: Jan S on 04 July 2022, 05:39 PMI gave the old man new carpet floor mats today.

Looks ok, but mats closer to the original carpet - i.e. without the ribs - would have been a tick better.

Main purpose is to protect the original carpet which is in stunning condition considering the age of 48 yrs. Good quality!

Looks good and they have a good fitment ! Are these Lengenfelder floormats ?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 05 July 2022, 09:43 AM
Yes - Lengenfelder Autoteppiche GmbH, and perfect fitment!

Quite stiff as well, which is good. We'll see how they look after a few years with wear and tear.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 05 July 2022, 12:46 PM
Ok , i recently bought the same lengenfelder rips floormats it's indeed an perfect fit and quitte stiff , i ordered them in dark green and it's sounds crazy the dark green does not come with an heel pad for the drivers side becouse they dont have green matching material for it , but we will see it how long they are gonna last in our W116's
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ptashek on 05 July 2022, 03:11 PM
I've had their floor mats in both my semi-daily driver W124s, and they're keeping very well. The heel pad is definitely not as robust as the original, but the rest is very solid. No wear to report after 2+ years.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 05 July 2022, 03:48 PM
Sounds promising - good to hear your experiences!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: SteveDuNord on 12 July 2022, 05:50 PM
Fixed the dash illumination issue I'd noticed the night before by replacing fuse no.5 and twisting the fader knob until I had light. Bonus being that I now also have working glovebox and hazard switch light.

Went out for a drive to bathe in the glow.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 17 July 2022, 03:31 PM
Quote from: Jan S on 08 June 2022, 10:05 AMOver the weekend I did a first "major" test-drive since I closed several items on my to-do list. Total 820 km (510 miles) at a speed of mainly 90-120 km/h (55-75 miles/h).

Car performed beautifully. Started immediately cold and warm, although rpms still too high when warm (800 should be 600 ... need to look into that). Very stable and tight at relative high speed (75+ miles/h).

Average consumption 1,54 liter/10 km (15,27 miles/gallon) is the best I have ever measured (for that car).
 
Only a few things to put the finger on:
-   I missed the AC, but the sunroof worked flawlessly
-   Minor play in the steering box

Closed items:
-   Renovated radiator (disassembled, sandblasted, flanges re-welded, new register, painted)
-   New coolant hoses and clamps in engine bay (except return heater-to-engine, and expansion tank to lower part of radiator ... will leave those to later this fall)
-   New thermostat
-   New thermostat housing incl. bolts and sealing
-   New engine temp/coolant temp sensor
-   New coolant
-   New ignition cap and rotor
-   New "100-hose" (the breather hose from idling house to air intake left and right)
-   New rubber boots and vacuum lines around WUR and idling house
-   Cleaned and tested aux air valve
-   Cleaned idling house incl. new seal
-   New injectors incl. seals
-   New windshield wipers
-   New hood isolation pad

Over the last couple of days I did the 2nd "major" test drive since I closed several items on my to-do list. Total 1013 km (630 miles) at varying speed up to max 120 km/h (75 miles/h).

Car performed beautifully. No issues whatsoever.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: sutekh on 17 July 2022, 07:39 PM
Quote from: Jan S on 17 July 2022, 03:31 PMCar performed beautifully. No issues whatsoever.

Marvelous! That was a serious amount of work.

Today I replaced my glow plugs, including carbon reaming. I DID NOT remove my fuel lines as many recommend. All in, I think it was probably slightly easier working around the hard lines vs. removing them and bleeding the system. Carbon buildup in the chambers wasn't horrible, but there was plenty of it. Car starts cold now after lighting the plugs once instead of twice, so mission accomplished :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 26 July 2022, 04:25 PM
Replaced all rear bulbs today, including license plate bulbs, but except the two left and right festoon bulbs (one can be seen far left in 1st pic). Need to buy these two bulbs later.

Used standard Osram bulbs (see 2nd pic):

- 6 x P21W (12V, 21W)
- 2 x R10W (12V, 10W)
- 2 x C5W (12V, 5W, 36 mm) (License plate)

Replaced also the front two signal bulbs (2 x P21W)

The rear bulb holder and front signal bulb holder looked great and now signs of rust. Good to now.

Interesting to see the date stamp on the rear bulb holder (10 Oct 1974) ... coincides well with the date the car left the factory (18 Oct 1974).
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BigGreenMachine on 26 July 2022, 10:38 PM
Quote from: johnnyw116 on 17 May 2022, 04:34 AMCool color  8) looks like 825 tiefgrün

Confirmed! I just found the original import paperwork from 1978 and it's indeed listed as tiefgrün.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 27 July 2022, 04:53 AM
Confirmed! I just found the original import paperwork from 1978 and it's indeed listed as tiefgrün.
[/quote]
Great ! 
This is a sonderlackierung (special color) and an cool rare color to have on the W116
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 27 July 2022, 07:38 PM
Almost 2 years ago my car stopped running on LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) , it´s not an big issue for driving becouse i always drive it on petrol ,i only drive it on lpg once every two years for the APK test/inspection becouse on the registration of my 350SE the main fuel is LPG so it has to run on LPG for the APK and only the main fuel gets an CO test ,the APK is similar like the MOT or TUV test/inspection , but i think the TUV or MOT are much tougher to pass than the APK that we have overhere .
it turned out that the LPG shut off valve stayed closed , i replaced it with an new one and now it runs fine again on lpg , so another job done that was for quite some time on my to do list   
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BigGreenMachine on 28 July 2022, 12:37 AM
Nice fix!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 19 August 2022, 06:16 PM
Today, the 1975 450 SE w/ 6.9 completed a 3 week and exactly 3.000 km (1.864 miles) road trip to Germany, including a visit to the Mercedes Benz Museum in Fellbach.

No technical problems whatsoever and the car drove very nicely on the Autobahn, even at high speed. Cruising speed was normally 120 km/h (75 miles/h). We didn't want to stress "the old man", hence we limited the highest speed to 180 km/h (112 miles/h).

Fuel consumption clocked in on 15.1 liter/100 km (15.58 miles/gallon, US). Engine oil about 2 liter (0.5 gallon, US) which is within spec, I believe?

We parked right outside the Museum's main entrance (the tip came from one of you in the Forum - THANKS!). What a great reception, it felt like Coming Home after 48 years! And the Museum was well worth the trip.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: SteveDuNord on 23 August 2022, 03:31 AM
Outstanding, Jan.  8)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: gurrier on 23 August 2022, 03:59 AM
I am sure it was a memorable experience.  On my bucket list also.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 23 August 2022, 06:16 AM
Cool ! Germany is for me just "next door" but i never went to the Museum , but it must be twice the experience going there with an classic Mercedes
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Neil4speed on 23 August 2022, 09:23 AM
What a trip Jan - something that dreams are made of, especially that last iconic shot.

I went when I was about 12 and loved the experience, but had to rush through as we got there an hour before closing. Still a great memory though.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 23 August 2022, 01:26 PM
Yes, a great trip! I will carry that experience with me for a long time.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: rumb on 23 August 2022, 04:20 PM
Jan S.  Did you see the message I sent you?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 29 August 2022, 05:27 PM
Quote from: rumb on 23 August 2022, 04:20 PMJan S.  Did you see the message I sent you?


Yes, I did now. Sorry for the late reply ... not easy to see that there was a message in the inbox.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Type17 on 05 September 2022, 03:52 PM
Quote from: Jan S on 6/30/2022, 11:42:35 PMMy understanding is that the ballast resistors help to regulate the current and the voltage in the ignition system, thereby protecting individual components such as battery, coil, etc.Is that correct?

Ballast resistors reduce the voltage to the coil to 10v - coils of cars of this era run at 10v, so that they'll still give a good spark during cranking (when the starter is taking so much power that the voltage drops throughout the system).

During cranking, the ballast resistor is bypassed, and receives the full voltage of the electrical system (which is only ~10v, because of the cranking).

When you release the key, the ignition switch powers the coil through the ballast resistor again, so it continues to receive 10v while the engine is running.

Some cars (Mk1 Golf is one that I know of) don't have visible ballast resistors, but have ballast wire (extra resistance for a voltage drop) in the loom, which is bypassed during cranking by a regular wire.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 06 September 2022, 01:21 PM
Quote from: Type17 on 05 September 2022, 03:52 PMQuote from: Jan S on 6/30/2022, 11:42:35 PMMy understanding is that the ballast resistors help to regulate the current and the voltage in the ignition system, thereby protecting individual components such as battery, coil, etc.Is that correct?

Ballast resistors reduce the voltage to the coil to 10v - coils of cars of this era run at 10v, so that they'll still give a good spark during cranking (when the starter is taking so much power that the voltage drops throughout the system).

During cranking, the ballast resistor is bypassed, and receives the full voltage of the electrical system (which is only ~10v, because of the cranking).

When you release the key, the ignition switch powers the coil through the ballast resistor again, so it continues to receive 10v while the engine is running.

Some cars (Mk1 Golf is one that I know of) don't have visible ballast resistors, but have ballast wire (extra resistance for a voltage drop) in the loom, which is bypassed during cranking by a regular wire.

Great, thanks! Very good summary.

Jan
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 19 September 2022, 02:05 PM
Mapped out my autumn improvement program, more or less in order.  Many fun projects!  Lots to do!  Ordering parts now.

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: sutekh on 19 September 2022, 02:59 PM
Quote from: raueda1 on 19 September 2022, 02:05 PM
  • Finish repairing crack on dash

Interesting. Tell us more? How are you planning to repair a single crack vs. replacing / covering the dash?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 19 September 2022, 07:32 PM
Quote from: sutekh on 19 September 2022, 02:59 PM
Quote from: raueda1 on 19 September 2022, 02:05 PM
  • Finish repairing crack on dash

Interesting. Tell us more? How are you planning to repair a single crack vs. replacing / covering the dash?

I've been experimenting with this using vinyl repair paste and silicone molding compound.  The idea is to make a dashboard impression with the molding stuff.  Next, spread a very thin layer of the repair paste on the mold so you have a kind of dashboard patch or "skin". Add a couple more coats so the skin can be handled but feathering towards the edges.
  In the meantime fill the crack so you have a uniform surface to put the skin on.  Now spread a very thin layer of the repair paste over the area to be repaired.  Put the skin over it and press with a soft roller.  The patch will have a near-perfect pattern match with the dash. With buffing and rubbing alcohol you can get a good match of gloss.  It's not perfectly invisible but nobody will see it unless you tell them to look hard.

At least that's the idea.  I made some excellent patches last summer but never finished leveling the area around the crack. Then I garaged the car for the winter.

I did the same for some headliner holes.  They're now totally invisible.  The process seems to work if you're patient.  I'll post pix of it when (and if) the time comes.  Cheers,
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BigGreenMachine on 02 November 2022, 02:36 PM
Like raueda1, did above, I'm mapping out my winter to-do list.

1) Lube three remaining window assemblies. Replace the white plastic jaw clip in one of them. Clip is on order, and I went ahead and purchased the detailed door card removal video from mercedessource to supplement the manual and maybe prevent avoidable headaches. I plan to use red tacky grease for the window gears and rail slider, and silicone spray for the window channels. The door latches are getting sticky too, so I'll take the opportunity to rehab all the moving bits inside.

2) Rebuild springs in saggy driver's seat. Spring kit is on order from mercedessource.

3) Rehab sun roof. Haven't tried to open it for a few years. Car has always been garaged and very well maintained so I'm hoping I'll get off easy with a less intrusive clean and lube vs deep rebuild.

4) Troubleshoot transmission fluid drip. I first thought I had a bad gasket, but when I pulled the transmission dipstick to see how much fluid I've lost to the leak, I found the trans actually appears to be overfilled by several inches above the hash marks on the stick. When I do a clean dip with the stick, it comes out looking like I've got trans fluid even up above the big zig-zag bends on the dipstick - so maybe I'm dealing with an overfill vs a serious leak.

5) Next time it's in a shop up on a lift, I want to inspect the drive shaft center bearing. I sometimes hear a short weird noise on the highway after hitting a bump, almost like when your plane has landed and you hear the electric motors laboring in the wings to trim up the flaps. It's such a distinctive and mysterious sound, this bearing is the likeliest culprit I can think of since I came across a video calling that piece out as a wear item.

6) Survey time: how much of a difference does it make before/after when replacing the hood pad? Is it mainly a preventative exercise to stop more disintegrated foam from getting into the motor, or does it also provide a noticeable improvement to sound dampening after replacement? I can't tell if the reward is worth the work on this one - any input is appreciated.
Screen Shot 2022-11-02 at 12.08.16 PM.jpg

Lastly I want to plug a mod I made last year that I find extremely convenient: I put a throw switch on my battery to make it easy to disconnect it between drives and covered storage without having to unscrew the battery leads or leave a trickle charger permanently attached.
Screen Shot 2022-11-02 at 12.11.35 PM.jpg
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: daantjie on 02 November 2022, 02:43 PM
Hood pad is a must.  It protects your paint from the under hood temps.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BigGreenMachine on 02 November 2022, 02:46 PM
Quote from: daantjie on 02 November 2022, 02:43 PMHood pad is a must.  It protects your paint from the under hood temps.

Great advice - I hadn't even considered that aspect!
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: rumb on 02 November 2022, 04:44 PM
Sounds like a good plan. I would not use red grease at all. Get 001-989-37-51-09  grease for window regulators and guides.   It is a very light grease. The red stuff will eventually dry up and make things worse, and just makes a mess.

The regulator motor/assy only needs some white lithium spray on the pivot point and some of the light grease on the side of big gear where the rubbing blocks hit it.  The big gear doesnt need anything on it. The motor uses the light grease inside.

This light grease I think it would be good also for the sun roof even though it is not the official MB sunroof grease, which is presumably better.You can usually buy small quantities on ebay or from mercedesource.

Dont forget the technical section has all the repair manuals in it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 03 November 2022, 10:47 AM
Quote from: BigGreenMachine on 02 November 2022, 02:46 PM
Quote from: daantjie on 02 November 2022, 02:43 PMHood pad is a must.  It protects your paint from the under hood temps.

Great advice - I hadn't even considered that aspect!

... and it looks much better! Did the hood pad last spring, relatively easy job.
https://forum.w116.org/mechanicals/what-have-you-done-for-your-w116-today/msg153684/?topicseen#msg153684

Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BigGreenMachine on 03 November 2022, 03:46 PM
Quote from: rumb on 02 November 2022, 04:44 PMSounds like a good plan. I would not use red grease at all. Get 001-989-37-51-09  grease for window regulators and guides.   It is a very light grease. The red stuff will eventually dry up and make things worse, and just makes a mess.

The regulator motor/assy only needs some white lithium spray on the pivot point and some of the light grease on the side of big gear where the rubbing blocks hit it.  The big gear doesnt need anything on it. The motor uses the light grease inside.

This light grease I think it would be good also for the sun roof even though it is not the official MB sunroof grease, which is presumably better.You can usually buy small quantities on ebay or from mercedesource.

Dont forget the technical section has all the repair manuals in it.

This is unbelievably helpful. Thank you for this guidance. I really appreciate it.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BigGreenMachine on 03 November 2022, 03:57 PM
Quote from: BigGreenMachine on 03 November 2022, 03:46 PMThe motor uses the light grease inside.

Does this mean you think I should remove the regulator/motor assembly from the door to access the motor to lube inside? I'd envisioned leaving the regulator installed and reaching my arm up inside the door to apply lube to various points. How realistic/effective is reaching vs removal?
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 15 April 2023, 08:21 PM
Wow, long time since last post.  Nobody did anything for their W116 today?  Well I did.  Replaced the starter.  What an absolute PITA job.  But now it's done.  Years of happy motoring to look forward to. ;D  Cheers,
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Gpapaniko on 16 April 2023, 11:24 PM
Rear brakes got rebuilt, new pistons on both rear callipers, fresh brake fluid and bleed.  Clearly the old brakes were sticking a bit and pick up off the line is way better in the old girl now.  I also reconditioned the battery tray and carbon filter - what a difference it can make to the tidy look of the engine bay
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: johnnyw116 on 17 April 2023, 05:07 AM
My 2 yearly road safety test was not valid anymore , so ihave the 350SE checked today and it passed the again the test ,i only had minor play in one steering ball joint but within regulations , so not bad for an 48 year old car that was waiting for the scrapper i bought for parts 10 years ago   
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Gpapaniko on 17 April 2023, 07:50 AM
Quote from: BigGreenMachine on 02 November 2022, 02:36 PMLike raueda1, did above, I'm mapping out my winter to-do list.

1) Lube three remaining window assemblies. Replace the white plastic jaw clip in one of them. Clip is on order, and I went ahead and purchased the detailed door card removal video from mercedessource to supplement the manual and maybe prevent avoidable headaches. I plan to use red tacky grease for the window gears and rail slider, and silicone spray for the window channels. The door latches are getting sticky too, so I'll take the opportunity to rehab all the moving bits inside.

2) Rebuild springs in saggy driver's seat. Spring kit is on order from mercedessource.

3) Rehab sun roof. Haven't tried to open it for a few years. Car has always been garaged and very well maintained so I'm hoping I'll get off easy with a less intrusive clean and lube vs deep rebuild.

4) Troubleshoot transmission fluid drip. I first thought I had a bad gasket, but when I pulled the transmission dipstick to see how much fluid I've lost to the leak, I found the trans actually appears to be overfilled by several inches above the hash marks on the stick. When I do a clean dip with the stick, it comes out looking like I've got trans fluid even up above the big zig-zag bends on the dipstick - so maybe I'm dealing with an overfill vs a serious leak.

5) Next time it's in a shop up on a lift, I want to inspect the drive shaft center bearing. I sometimes hear a short weird noise on the highway after hitting a bump, almost like when your plane has landed and you hear the electric motors laboring in the wings to trim up the flaps. It's such a distinctive and mysterious sound, this bearing is the likeliest culprit I can think of since I came across a video calling that piece out as a wear item.

6) Survey time: how much of a difference does it make before/after when replacing the hood pad? Is it mainly a preventative exercise to stop more disintegrated foam from getting into the motor, or does it also provide a noticeable improvement to sound dampening after replacement? I can't tell if the reward is worth the work on this one - any input is appreciated.
Screen Shot 2022-11-02 at 12.08.16 PM.jpg

Lastly I want to plug a mod I made last year that I find extremely convenient: I put a throw switch on my battery to make it easy to disconnect it between drives and covered storage without having to unscrew the battery leads or leave a trickle charger permanently attached.
Screen Shot 2022-11-02 at 12.11.35 PM.jpg

Only check the trans fluid when car is running and at temp (best after a short drive) as recommended by the manual.  ATF will almost always show overfill when cold or not warmed up enough.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BCK1963 on 17 April 2023, 07:57 AM
Washed and waxed her for the season. Very pleasant sight afterwards.

The day before I have removed the factory Becker radio and put in the newly purchased Blaupunkt Barcelona CD radio because I wanted to listen to my many old CDs.
The Blaupunkt made three CDs, then stopped reading them. I sent it in for repair or exchange.  Digital sh...
At least it blended not too bad into the dark parts of the center console. But that didn't make up for the missing music.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: celberg on 30 April 2023, 02:59 PM
Changed both hoses to the oilcooler for the automatic transmission. One of them cracked and made me stop on the highway a week ago.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Gpapaniko on 30 April 2023, 09:12 PM
Using 2000 grit sandpaper to freshen up the Bunt Wheels on my 280SEL.  Doing a great job removing stuck on particles, brake dust etc which have been there since I purchased the car in Dec 2021 and probably have been there for the life of the car as far as I can tell.  This will delay having to have the wheels refurbished.  Will post some pics8EC10337-62D9-4876-8EF6-32730A7D9C03.jpeg
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Eyeman on 01 May 2023, 10:10 PM
Speaking of sanding, I'm sanding the original and two more layers of paint off my 6.9.  Going back to the original gray blue and trying to keep the cost down by doing the hard work myself.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: marku on 07 May 2023, 11:22 AM
the best way although I have never seen so much dust. Sanded all the paint off which included a respray by a previous owner which was on top of the original. Then sanded some of my respray work off as it wasn't good enough. A lot of work but it is worth it. You can stand back at the end and say, with pride, "all my own work."
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Eyeman on 07 May 2023, 12:05 PM
I had done a lot of boat painting removing before so knew what I was getting in to.  On a Glastron boat, I sanded off the paint, then tried to repaint in metalflake by just adding metalflake to paint.  Didn't realized then you just end up with painted metalflake, no shine, had to sand that back off..lol.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Gpapaniko on 13 May 2023, 07:16 AM
Prepping new steel wheels and hub caps as an alternative to the bunt wheels I currently have.  Bunt wheels will come off for eventual refurbishment.  Now have two sets for the 280SEL.  Second hand hub caps in Milan brown now freshly painted and clear coated to match the Blue Grey Metallic (930G) on the 280SEL
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: celberg on 13 May 2023, 03:51 PM
There is a fuel leak at the lid on my 1975 350SE. Tried a new lid with new gasket, but still leaking. Got a used fuel tank and put in today. 3 (allof them) fuel hoses were totally cracked. Feel lucky today...
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 23 May 2023, 05:05 PM
A few days ago I did a lovely 450 km road trip in the southern part of Norway - the first trip since late fall 2022. Pleasant 17 deg C/63 deg F and still snow in the mountains.

Today I changed engine oil + a new filter. 11 liter. Two years and ca 5000 km since last oil change. Look forward to an upcoming 1100 km road trip in a weeks time.

Engine runs beautifully, and no cold/warm start problems.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Gpapaniko on 23 May 2023, 06:51 PM
Nice work Jan - is your colour scheme Blu Grey Metallic (Code 930) and Blue MBTex Interior?.  I change oil every 5000km or 12 months 20W 50 Liqui Moly
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BigGreenMachine on 23 May 2023, 11:16 PM
I noticed the body was cracked on my original climate control servo several weeks ago, with dried coolant indicating my days were numbered maintaining comfortable cabin temp. I decided to go with the aluminum body replacement option from Performance Analysis. I had to stay at it for a bit to get the old unit out - the rubber coolant hoses had to be worked loose, and the two mounting bolts were not very easy to access even with vacuum/electric/coolant lines pulled aside. But with a little persistence I was able to get the old servo unit out without needing to replace any coolant hose or damaging anything else along the way. All the work was in the removal of the orginal - the replacement plugged right in quickly and easily. The aluminum body unit wasn't cheap, but I didn't have a lot of choice in the matter considering how far gone the original was when I noticed it. Happy to have this one crossed off the list.

Screenshot 2023-05-23 at 8.57.12 PM.jpg
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Jan S on 24 May 2023, 02:13 AM
Quote from: Gpapaniko on 23 May 2023, 06:51 PMNice work Jan - is your colour scheme Blu Grey Metallic (Code 930) and Blue MBTex Interior?.  I change oil every 5000km or 12 months 20W 50 Liqui Moly

I suspect the car has been resprayed at some time. Difficult to say regarding the color code. Grey ... less blue I would say ...?

Interior is Black MBTex

I use Liqui Moly 10W-40 "MoS2 Leichtlauf".
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: Gpapaniko on 31 May 2023, 04:40 AM
Finished the prep and swap from bunts to wheel caps. Bunt now going to be refurbished
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BMA on 10 June 2023, 01:26 AM
could get a new black front plate pretty cheap and replaced it, just looks nicer and no visible surface rust anymore!  :)
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 13 August 2023, 06:32 PM
First, drove the old girl the long way from Salt Lake to lovely Essex CT, about 2600 miles.  We went through Wyoming (see pic) and on to Deadwood South Dakota.  Then to Sturgis a couple days before the crazy biker rally to get a taste for it.   Pic is Deadwood, totally taken over by bikers. Insane doesn't come close to describing.   We played blackjack with Hells Angels, which was fun. :o  Great trip, car ran beautifully.  All this was last week, not today, but close enough.

Then today I advanvced the timing a little.  It had been at 3 or 4 deg ATDC @ idle.  This is the spec if I recall, but I've also been a bit nervous about knocking because of so much high altitude and mountain driving.  Now the car will live at about 10 meters above sea level.  In a very old post somebody in OZ advanced it to 8 deg so I followed their example.  BIG difference in SOTP (seat-of-the-pants) performance, and no knocking!  I was quite surprised at the difference.  If anybody feels that this is a bad idea, please respond.  But I like what it did for the car.  Happy motoring and cheers,
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: ramiro on 14 August 2023, 08:24 AM
Interesting seeing that your temp gauge at just 160 kmh is also at ~97 so same like mine at that speed, the 6.9 engine just seems to run hot at higher speed.

I tried advancing the ignition on my euro 6.9 by ~ 2 degrees but i was pretty sure i heard knocking when accelerating so turned it back to spec , maybe it's because i am just using 95 RON fuel, but it also seemed a bit faster off the line.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 14 August 2023, 09:11 AM
Quote from: ramiro on 14 August 2023, 08:24 AMInteresting seeing that your temp gauge at just 160 kmh is also at ~97 so same like mine at that speed, the 6.9 engine just seems to run hot at higher speed.

I tried advancing the ignition on my euro 6.9 by ~ 2 degrees but i was pretty sure i heard knocking when accelerating so turned it back to spec , maybe it's because i am just using 95 RON fuel, but it also seemed a bit faster off the line.
Yeah, such comparisons are interesting indeed.  Actually I figure temp was more like 93 assuming 90 would be halfway between the 80 and 100 marks.  Temperature outside was about 97F/36C.  Pretty hot!  So I'm not concerned about that.  This car seems to stay in the same range even at +40C.

As for the fuel, I typically run 93 octane US, ~97 RON, so that's probably enough to prevent knocking. 
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: BMA on 14 August 2023, 01:19 PM
after being lucky, that it seems my fuel consumption went down and power performance went up after I increased the Co value from 1,5 % up to 3,1% I meanwhile do some research what to buy for the next small project to:
1. built in a new revised door safety catch strap for the driver door
2. buying Spray lubricant and Silikon to grease the power window
3. Reupholster door panel with extra purchased foam for this purpose.
4. new plastic film to seal the door

Regards from Germany, Björn
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: adamb on 14 August 2023, 03:43 PM
Quote from: raueda1 on 13 August 2023, 06:32 PMFirst, drove the old girl the long way from Salt Lake to lovely Essex CT, about 2600 miles.  We went through Wyoming (see pic) and on to Deadwood South Dakota.  Then to Sturgis a couple days before the crazy biker rally to get a taste for it.   Pic is Deadwood, totally taken over by bikers. Insane doesn't come close to describing.   We played blackjack with Hells Angels, which was fun. :o  Great trip, car ran beautifully.  All this was last week, not today, but close enough.

Then today I advanvced the timing a little.  It had been at 3 or 4 deg ATDC @ idle.  This is the spec if I recall, but I've also been a bit nervous about knocking because of so much high altitude and mountain driving.  Now the car will live at about 10 meters above sea level.  In a very old post somebody in OZ advanced it to 8 deg so I followed their example.  BIG difference in SOTP (seat-of-the-pants) performance, and no knocking!  I was quite surprised at the difference.  If anybody feels that this is a bad idea, please respond.  But I like what it did for the car.  Happy motoring and cheers,

Nice write up. I noticed that your 6.9 is showing 100mph at 4000rpm. That doesn't look right. AFAIK it's about 27mph/1000rpm so you were travelling at 108mph or the rev counter is wrong.
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 14 August 2023, 07:31 PM
Quote from: adamb on 14 August 2023, 03:43 PM
Quote from: raueda1 on 13 August 2023, 06:32 PMFirst, drove the old girl the long way from Salt Lake to lovely Essex CT, about 2600 miles.  We went through Wyoming (see pic) and on to Deadwood South Dakota.  Then to Sturgis a couple days before the crazy biker rally to get a taste for it.  Pic is Deadwood, totally taken over by bikers. Insane doesn't come close to describing.  We played blackjack with Hells Angels, which was fun. :o  Great trip, car ran beautifully.  All this was last week, not today, but close enough.

Then today I advanvced the timing a little.  It had been at 3 or 4 deg ATDC @ idle.  This is the spec if I recall, but I've also been a bit nervous about knocking because of so much high altitude and mountain driving.  Now the car will live at about 10 meters above sea level.  In a very old post somebody in OZ advanced it to 8 deg so I followed their example.  BIG difference in SOTP (seat-of-the-pants) performance, and no knocking!  I was quite surprised at the difference.  If anybody feels that this is a bad idea, please respond.  But I like what it did for the car.  Happy motoring and cheers,

Nice write up. I noticed that your 6.9 is showing 100mph at 4000rpm. That doesn't look right. AFAIK it's about 27mph/1000rpm so you were travelling at 108mph or the rev counter is wrong.
Nice catch!  You're right.  I know my speedo registers about 5 mph lower than actual as measured by GPS.  That would be 105, pretty darn close to what you figured, especially with all the other sources of error.  Also, my tires are oversized too though circumference very close to stock.  But many small errors can add up quickly.  Cheers,
Title: Re: What have you done for your W116 today?
Post by: raueda1 on 12 October 2023, 08:12 AM
The fun just never ends.  I finally got official ignition wires (with the tubes) and installed them properly after finally finding the cable bracket next to the WUR.  Then had to remove the idle adjust and cold start casting to get the damn thing on the left side of the engine.  Also replaced cap, rotor, coil and installed non-resistor plugs.  It was surprisingly expensive.  >:(  Looks much neater though, and maybe slightly smoother idle and a hair faster.  Worth the effort. 

The do-list is slowly shrinking.  Next will be putting the footwell panels back, and pre-winter oil change.  Then new tires in the spring.  I've put about 30k miles on the car since I got it.  Then swapping MBtex for leather.  So much more to look forward to! 

Finally, if anybody is willing to take a well-lit picture under the driver side footwell, I'd be very grateful.  Thanks and Cheers,