280SL 86 - Rain leak

[RobW]

Think this may be a known problem. I've got a 1986 280SL and passenger well is very wet following heavy rain. Never drivers side though. Water is coming in through air vent between bonnet and windscreen - sound proofing under glove compartment is wet. Told by local MB specialist (AMC, Earlsfield) that this is a known problem caused by rusting away of second skin (?). They refuse to attempt a repair as involves removing the dashboard - quoted at 14 hour job. Any ideas beyond checking drains are clear ?
Thanks
Rob.

 

[Andy]

Hi Rob,

The problem is that if there is a problem which is not drains. Then the dash may have to be removed. To check exactly where the water ingress is coming from. By the sounds of it. There does not seem any easy explanation.

I am not sure which skin they are refering to. But if on the bulkhead or bonnet area. Before an attempt to repair is made. Be sure you may be into having the heater box completely removed. They may have to remove windscreens. I am not trying to scare you. (Although I probably have!!) But be aware once you start it may be a can of worms you won't want to see.

Having not seen the vehicle this is just my opinion from what you have written.


Regards

Andy @ www.mercedesservicing.com

 

[Nigel]

Hi Rob,
I have experienced the same problem with an 1983 500sl. Can you let me have a contact fax number as I have an article wich will be of interest to you.

Nigel