[isthisdave]

5/5/11 15,782 views

This thread is a compilation of sub frame repair and replacement information accumulated by BW107 posters over the years.


While there never was a "subframe recall" issued for the C/R107 series there was an agreement between MBUSA and the USDOT to repair or replace defective subframes in 350/450 SL/SLC cast iron block models produced for the US market. This exempted all US M116 3.8 cars, and all Rest Of The World cars, regardless of powerplant, from service.


MB's claim, accepted by regulators, that the lighter aluminum block 3.8L V-8 would not cause the failure proved later to be less than accurate. The early style frame can crack regardless of engine cylinder count or block material.


The repair or replacement in question is 'MBUSA Service Information Letter 33/001, Sub-frame Modification dated 11/1/85'. Some dealerships readily acknowledge the ongoing existence of the recall, others are markedly reticent in expending any energy toward obtaining satisfaction for owners with issues. Several members have had luck getting replacement subframes installed or even reimbursement of out of pocket expenses for sub-frames replaced outside of the dealer network.





Here are some pictures of the issue at hand....



A cracking control arm mounting tab.

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Tearing out of the bolt slot on a mounting tab.

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Progressive failure of the mounting tabs. Note that the rear tab is completely torn from the subframe.

Gusset kit, MB P/N 107 330 00 68

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Factory support gussets welded in place.

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Factory update subframe with reinforced control arm mounting tabs. This was standard equipment on the 560SL.

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The end result of a failed sub-frame.

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Board member ABQ450SLC persevered and was reimbursed by MBUSA for subframe repairs to his 450SLC Euro. He generously offers his experience to others who may need assistance. Contact him via PM.

All, I just recieved a check from MB for the entire work done on my 78 107 gray market. Initially MB balked at the gray market, but after many, many calls they relented and admitted that the recall was indeed a worldwide recall, and the work needs to be done no matter where the car is originally from. At first they said no way, so I had the work done independently to a cost of roughly $2500. Then out of the blue MB USA called me back. Apparently someone higher up saw the request and they told me they would cover it. I told them it was already done and they had me take the car to my local MB dealer to have it inspected. They approved the work and MB made good on their word. They paid ALL parts AND labor. It did take a lot of work, but they did relent in the end. They said this recall would never expire and they had to honor it world-wide as it is a very liable fault in design. PM me if you want names, number etc.

I've read about a suspension recall​

Member Anovak has also offered help after successfully lobbying MBUSA and getting warranty repairs on his 107.

Greetings and sorry for the delay. I had my subframe replaced at MB of Albuquerque, NM. It was a long, drawn-out process but they finally agreed to do it after I had contacted MB in Fellbach, Germany. Check your email. I will send the info you request there. The subject line will say "MB Subframe."

The good news is, contrary to what some have said, the recall DOES apply to the 107 models which includes the 380SL.....guess it just depends on how determined you are. Since yours is cracked already, I would think MB would want to take care of this immediately to avoid failure and therefore almost certain injury. Needless to say, I would not drive that vehicle before the subframe is sound. Best of luck to you.

PS - Nobby, very cool boots.....where can I get a pair like that, only could you be sure that I get the euro headlight???

Sub Frame Failure Help​

Here are some links to other threads with subframe pictures and information.





Sub Frame Recall?


Sub Frame Failure Help


107 Sub Frame Recall Enlightenment


Example Of A Bad 107 Sub-Frame


And It Was Such A Great Weekend Till...


Sub-Frame Failure on 280SL (Euro)


Subframe Gusset Reinforcement and Bushing Replacement

 

[isthisdave]

This is a beta thread of the type we are considering for use in the new EGv107 reference library.


Comments are sought...

 

[nobby]

I like the layout. Everything I can remember seems to be there.
The TSAR has spoken.

 

[rowdie]

I like it too. Clean and user friendly especially for noobs.

After seeing the updated frame I am going to tie the gussets together giving it more strength and the cleaner boxed look.

Great job Dave! Keep the ideas coming.

 

[JDR280SL]

Fantastic Dave. This would have been of great assistance when I was attempting to have MBUSA pay for mine. Keep up the good work.

Jerry 1977 280SL

 

[isthisdave]

Aren't you pursuing reimbursement from MB? Keep us posted.

 

[Werner W]

I thought I read somewhere that Euro owners have managed to get MB to apply the recall to their cars and get the Sub frame replaced / repaired. Is this true??

 

[isthisdave]

I thought I read somewhere that Euro owners have managed to get MB to apply the recall to their cars and get the Sub frame replaced / repaired. Is this true??

Board member ABQ450SLC persevered and was reimbursed by MBUSA for subframe repairs to his 450SLC Euro. He generously offers his experience to others who may need assistance. Contact him via PM.

Daryn has also stated his 280SLC was done under warranty, completely at the dealer's initiative.

 

[daryn]

Good thread and mine was indeed done at the dealer.

 

[joconab]

Do you think I would get any luck since that is the picture of my car with the subframe failure and the last two pictures of the 560SL frame were also mine (I was lucky enough to find that reinforced frame out of a 78 450SLC at a local junk yard.) How do I go about getting the money?
JOCONAB in San Jose Calif.

 

[isthisdave]

Joconab, I'd suggest you PM or email both Anovak and ABQ450SLC for advice on that. If Daryn still has any documentation he would be willing to copy to you that might also help. Any proof of warranty extended to owners of cars outside the 350/450 SL/SLC parameters can only bolster the case for your 380. I do believe Anovak's to be a 380SL.

 

[joconab]

Love to be in on the map thing...but don't know how, I clicked on the link and it took me to another and it is kinda confusing...I am not that literate with tech...I will try again later. I am joconabeuroparts on eBay if you guys need anything. I can also hunt your parts for you...just a scoop, hope y'all don't mind.

 

[nobby]

Joconab, I do believe Anovak's to be a 380SL.

I hope you don't hold your beliefs too close to your heart.

Anovak sports a 280SL in his driveway.

 

[bajones238]

Thanks to Benzworld . . .

After reading the postings on several of the 'recall' threads, I took my 1980 450SL to Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead in Atlanta, to see what if anything MB might be willing to do. To be honest, I really wasn't taking it all that seriously, until I met with the service manager, who confirmed that MB will pick up the tab (parts+labor) to install the replacement subframe.

While I was there (yesterday) the service manager insisted I allow him to put the car on the lift to look it over, and it turned out that the subframe was indeed cracked. No telling what would have happened if I had continued to drive it . . . you good folks have my gratitude.

Also, a big thanks to Mercedes Benz of Buckhead, obviously the home of first-class customer service.

While they have the subframe out, I'll also have them replace the control-arm bushings and motor mounts, as suggested by a number of people on this board. You guys are the greatest :thumbsup:

 

[rowdie]

After reading the postings on several of the 'recall' threads, I took my 1980 450SL to Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead in Atlanta, to see what if anything MB might be willing to do. To be honest, I really wasn't taking it all that seriously, until I met with the service manager, who confirmed that MB will pick up the tab (parts+labor) to install the replacement subframe.

While I was there (yesterday) the service manager insisted I allow him to put the car on the lift to look it over, and it turned out that the subframe was indeed cracked. No telling what would have happened if I had continued to drive it . . . you good folks have my gratitude.

Also, a big thanks to Mercedes Benz of Buckhead, obviously the home of first-class customer service.

While they have the subframe out, I'll also have them replace the control-arm bushings and motor mounts, as suggested by a number of people on this board. You guys are the greatest :thumbsup:

Wow. You must be living right. Me too I guess because I found my crack in the garage and not on the road.

May suggest that Dave and Dig ask for input from owners who have had this done and are willing to cooperate with others. Like when and where it was done. Did they have a hassle with MB?:thumbsup:

 

[isthisdave]

May suggest that Dave and Dig ask for input from owners who have had this done and are willing to cooperate with others. Like when and where it was done. Did they have a hassle with MB?

You just asked them.

 

[rowdie]

You just asked them.

I am planning on documenting with pics when I remove the subframe and DIY the repair.

 

[Digmenow]

I am planning on documenting with pics when I remove the subframe and DIY the repair.

Take a tour through here Front License Bracket (US) remove & replace / 3 post tutorial. and ask questions if you have any.

I can't recall, do you have an image storage site online? Makes DIY's much more manageable.

 

[rowdie]

Take a tour through here Front License Bracket (US) remove & replace / 3 post tutorial. and ask questions if you have any.

I can't recall, do you have an image storage site online? Makes DIY's much more manageable.

I don't anymore. I am checking on Photobucket. Any other suggestions?

 

[isthisdave]

I am planning on documenting with pics when I remove the subframe and DIY the repair.

Very cool. Thanks for the support, rowdie.