4 SAIL: 1990 W124 300E auto - take 2

[chaseracer]

The ex-DollyWobbler "as seen in CCW" 300E is up for grabs again.

 

Did you ever get to go out with a gal (or guy) that you'd fancied for ages from afar, yet when finally you were together the magic you were expecting just didn't happen?

 

That's where the Merc and I are in our relationship. I've been around the block enough times in enough cars to know that we haven't clicked - and that we're not going to. I should have spent the money on Dyane, my true love... 

 

Ian sorted brake & ignition issues with new parts; I've replaced the o/s driveshaft, put right a couple of minor electrical glitches, and had an interior valet done.

 

Driver's leccy window currently u/s (had it apart, fitted new switch; motor now engages but doesn't move the glass).

 

Still quite silver; good blue cloth interior; wood trim in good nick. No reason to think 176200 miles isn't entirely genuine, so nicely run in. Goes like a train (oo-er), nice smooth box (fnarr) and uses surprisingly little juice (Matron!)

 

Ticket until Feb 2014 sometime; rent's due the end of October, at which point I will SORN it if it's still here.

 

'Here' is Staffs WS12, which believe you me is a damn sight more convenient than SY23 (though nowhere near as spectacular). Pics/more info available.

 

I would rather not involve our 'friends' at eBay, so start insulting me at around 600 sheets.

[Tetleysmooth]

Oh bloody hell, have I got to go through all this again

[chaseracer]

Be kind to yourself. Fork over the folding without delay. You know it makes sense...  

[Angrydicky]

Tetley, you obviously love the car so why not? You only live once.

[dollywobbler]

Aye. It's now a bit easier to get too as well!

[Tetleysmooth]

I know, I know.

Trouble is, every time I drive my Grand Voyager, I wonder to myself why I want to change it.

Went down to the Kent Battle of Britain museum yesterday, (recommended, and absolute must if you like pieces of wrecked aircraft from the Battle). Also went to the Battle of Britain memorial at Capel le Ferne, wonderful place with such an atmosphere. The Voyager just ate the miles up. A bit juicy, but so comfy.

Would love another 300e though.

Dilemma.

[chaseracer]

 

[Barry Cade]

[forddeliveryboy]

Oh fook. Thought you said it was rotten in the sill department.

[chaseracer]

I've found a bit of crust around the rear jacking points, but otherwise it seems a generally solid old bus.

[forddeliveryboy]

Oh good. I had these comments still in my head -

 

 

Well, the Mercedes is up on axle stands, ready for diagnosis by someone who understands these things. However, this operation has revealed that, under all that smart body cladding, the jacking points and sills appear to be made of something resembling cornflakes.

 

 

 

 

My guess is that it was upgraded more for its hiding skills than the aesthetics. I stood underneath this car during the MOT back in March (IIRC) and we both commented on how solid it was!

 

Up to '89/90 the steel and build quality was so much better, I've never yet found a terminally-rotten 124 pre-90, unless badly repaired.

[chaseracer]

This is my understanding too.

 

According to the data the dealer in Stafford gave me, the car's a December 1989 build at the Singelfingen plant.  The way it rides, sounds, and the THUNK on shutting the doors suggests a good strong structure. Thick metal! 

 

I think the bit of rust I found caught me on a bad day...

[chaseracer]

Officially the koolest kar on the school run this morning. Thank you, year 11...

[Tetleysmooth]

Lots more pics FTW, CR old boy.

[chaseracer]

A pleasure, TS old chap, though presently "...sable Night, mother of Dread and Fear, upon the world dim darkness doth display, and in her vaulty prison stows the Day."

 

So I'll do it in the morning...