My SL55 project / conversion.

[Rudycob1]

I have been on here for some time and this place is a wealth of good information and advise.
I have a 2003 SL55 which I bought after looking at a few so as to find the right car as it's going to be the subject of a major transformation. The car will have a wide body conversion, with bespoke split rims as I do not want to use spacers like many conversions do, the interior will also be totally stripped out, redesigned and made to look more bespoke. A new audio project will also be undertaken.
So, as fellow MB enthusiasts I thought I would share this project with you and welcome your advise and comments.
I must say that this has been in the planning stage for some time now and the aim is to end up with a sporty but classy looking car and the end result needs to reflect this. So let's see how it goes.

Some pics of my car and a few jobs before things start getting series.
Engine bay detailing started, new discs, pads and caliper overhaul.
Adjustable suspension links also fitted but will adjust properly once the project is completed.

 

[PovertySpec]

This could be interesting.. subscribed!

 

[Rudycob1]

I have had various meetings with the bodyshop who is doing this with regards to the detail of everything that is required and it's going to be Black, so needs to be done perfectly otherwise every little fault will show. The kit is being modified in various areas. Aesthetically, strength and sharpness.

I have seen a few conversions and kits which are not the standard that I'm looking to achieve. So we shall see how I get on.

So the strip down starts and the first job is to trial fit all the panels to see what needs to be done to each panel so as to get the figment and panel gaps correct. This is were the work is as most kits will require plenty of work to get them to both fit and look correct.

 

[Rudycob1]

Work continues and the modifications to the bodywork are now well under way.
Vents have been added to the front bumper, rear bumper and side sills.
The rear spoiler is also being grafted into the rear booth.
First guide coat of polyester now on. This will be blocked, more work done and than sprayed with polyester again until everything is perfect. Than the first coat of primer will be applied. Still lots to do but getting there. Hope you enjoy the pics.

 

[Rudycob1]

More pictures of work in progress.

 

[Rudycob1]

Our attention will now turn to the front as this part is crucial to get it to line up properly. The panel will be lining up with the bonnet, side wings, new lights, etc. so plenty of gaps to get right.

 

[eman]

This should look stunning. good luck.

 

[MissyD]

Looking good

 

[curious]

Your missus is very understanding allowing you to do this in the front room.
(Should have moved her ironing board out first.)

 

[Rudycob1]

Yes I suppose she must be. I will let the sprayer know and see what he says.

Thanks for your comments, hope you will enjoy this build history as it progresses.

 

[television]

Wow that is some work that you are undertaking there, look forward to seeing it all done

 

[turbopete]

very nice. just a shame a proper gearbox isnt being fitted instead of the auto cr@p thats in these as standard.........................

 

[Rudycob1]

There is a lot that I would want to do to this on going project and I'm sure I will get a lot of suggestions and I will be seeking a lot of advise but I need to take this step by step as it's a very costly project to do right.

I started on the carpets. They were in very good condition but grey. I wanted these to be black to go with what I have planned for the interior. So, I had a go at spraying them with carpet paint. Quite a job but the result is great and they still feel good. Some vinyl trim has also been sprayed with plastic spray.

 

[Rudycob1]

Another photo

 

[television]

I recognize all those interior parts, stripped them all out over the years

 

[Abb]

Looking great! I thought I was being brave about to start a ML350 to 63 conversion and thats only bumpers, wings and exhausts!

 

[Rudycob1]

Television: as you well know this car has hundreds of parts and not for the faint hearted. I'm sure I will be asking for your advise and help as things progress

Abb : no matter how big or small the project is, it's your project and that's all that matters. I hope you enjoy doing it and maybe share it with us. Which kit are you going to use?

 

[television]

One tip, do look after the plastic rivets, they cost a fortune.. when I re built my front bumper the 4 and 4 mm rivets worked out at nearly £60, as you know they are all over every trim piece. Any information you are welcome to, I have loads of it for the 230.

 

[Essel]

Looks amazing; subscribed!!

Any chance I could have the old side front wheel grilles? Mine are tatty...

 

[television]

Looks amazing; subscribed!!

Any chance I could have the old side front wheel grilles? Mine are tatty...

I think I have seen the wings on Ebay I have one with a little bit of damage.

I asked some breakers and they wanted £55 each