W123 CE - what to look for?

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Sun 27 May 2007 13:33
W123 CE - what to look for? - local yokel
I'm selling my camper - too slow, I've decided, and not much use outside the summer months. I'm buying a classic caravan, a 1969 Eriba, from Holland, and I'd like a suitable car to tow it. I realise that the 123 is a bit later, but I do like the look of them. Like most things, it seems there's a range from £300 for a rot box to £lots for a full restoration.

What faults are real-show stoppers, and what should I be looking for?
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Sun 27 May 2007 13:56
W123 CE - what to look for? - Roger Jones
tinyurl.com/26o9ru
www.geocities.com/SiliconValley/Pines/6633/w123.ht...l
forums.mbworld.org/forums/
www.mbclub.co.uk/
www.mercedes-benz-club.co.uk/
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Sun 27 May 2007 14:12
W123 CE - what to look for? - vito
Really cracking cars, I've had a few W123s. 230 e will be adequate, 280 e is a peach of an engine and will tow with ease.

At the age they are now, the terminal rust if present will be around the rear arches and sill area. Look very carefully for signs of polyfilla.

The car should drive shockingly well, if it's a viable purchase. Smooth and quiet, no clunking in the transmission. Look for long term ownership from the seller. Good luck!
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Sun 27 May 2007 14:45
W123 CE - what to look for? - Armitage Shanks {p}
Any automatic, used for towing, might need or at least benefit from, a transmission oil cooler.
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Sun 27 May 2007 14:57
W123 CE - what to look for? - local yokel
The caravan I'll be towing will barely be noticed. It weighs 600 kg empty.
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Sun 27 May 2007 15:19
W123 CE - what to look for? - vito
Just to add - the petrol 4-pots at this time had single width camchains, which do stretch and wear. Can be changed DIY, did it myself a long time ago, but don't have the same nerve these days.

The 6-pot 280 e has a duplex chain, less likely to ever require attention as long as the old beast got the odd oil change.

Really comfy cars, especially if you're tall. Big armrest and huge sunroof, they make excellent cruisers. Buy on condition, mileage really is irrelevant at this age. 500,000 miles? so what! If it's in good fettle, that's all that matters.

The 4-door models are not to be overlooked, very smart in a good colour.
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