PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - 1983 380SL Trying to buy the car, need some input

meltedpanda · #2 11-27-2008, 09:04 AM

the timing chain is the biggie here, and rust , look under floor mats and trunk mats, pull up all of the insulation and look. The other BIG issue issue is the ACC servo, if your AC is not working , find out why. IF the servo is bad , itis very expensive to replace. There are some work arounds.
Steering can be adjusted but only so much, play can come from a lot of things , including worn bushings, steering shock,
If you can ask to have the car put up on racks - check the undercarriage
Fuel smell in the engine can be from a lot of things but most of the time it is related to rubber parts with cracks, leaking injectors, all has to be renewed if you are going to be driving it.
Sticky reverse -I have not dealt with that on the several that I have rebuilt, not common,or at least I have not dealt with it
Service history is a big plus - ask for it. You mention head gasket leak, do you mean valve cover leak - head gaskets are a serious issue
These cars are great but they can bite you if you do not do your homework
How much is he asking . also if you cna get an MB mech to do an inspection for you , it would probably be worth the $100
Good Luck