[jd_wgd]

Hi,

I have a 380SL and most of the time it lives in the garage at work; however, on weekends and at night it lives outside my house... on the street.

I've been tossing up whether I should get a car cover, and if so, what type.

I live in a city suburb with very wide streets, but there are trees, pooping birds, cats, and drivers who can't reverse properly. Being in Sydney, there's no snow, but there's lots of heat and sunlight in summer, and rain in winter.

Does anyone have any recommendations on whether:
a) I should get a cover at all - I'm a bit concerned that each time I take it on/off any dirt on the car will be rubbed into the finish and eventually damage it?
b) Heavy versus light - a heavy cover, with very good dust protection, 100% UV and water resistance? or a lighter cover that will store well in the boot?

I've seen some advertised on Car Parts, Auto Parts, Truck Parts, Supplies and Accessories - Autobarn.com but am bamboozled by the options.

Would appreciate any opinions/recommendations - thanks!
J

 

[Weather Man]

I keep mine in a carport under a cover. I buy a generic brand for about $25US. After a year or so it loses its stretch and gets few pinholes, so I replace it. It makes a huge difference, keeps it clean and dry.

 

[ulflei]

I use since years on all cars a Car Covers & More - Weathershield HP Car Covers

but they are not cheap but coming with a 4 year warranty,one was just replaced for free because the Florida sun damaged it till it ripped

 

[3547fl]

I just bought a Covercraft cover for my 560SL and they are closing out their 1st Gen Black. Think it was around $220 which was maybe a 30% savings. Good protection and very light weight.

Cover SALE

Just bought a hardtop cover in their closeout store for $20 plus shipping.

 

[John Ulrich]

J,
You'll get tired of fussing with it after a week.
- Unless your car is freshly cleaned when you install it you'll be moving dirt around under it.
- Wind is going to whip it around and you'll come out and the cover will be flapping around....again rubbing on the paint.
- It's like grabbing a giant wet sponge on a wet day to remove it.
Covers are great for storage when sheltered but out in the open a pain for daily use.

 

[wpterry]

Walmart Canopy

Have you considered a similar one like in the background over my Lebaron?

$160 from Walmart or similar store

 

[rondor2]

The canopy idea looks good but may be a bit of an issue on the street

 

[jd_wgd]

Thanks everyone, you've given me some good suggestions and URLs. Think I'll get one of those breathable covers (from Covercraft), but only use it when the car starts off relatively clean and will be sitting outside for a while. Probably won't want to fuss with it every day.

 

[rowdie]

I am glad Nobby hasn't seen your wheels. He would have someone there trying to steal them.

Do you know what brand and size they are?

 

[jd_wgd]

AMG Alloys - 85X16H2

I am glad Nobby hasn't seen your wheels. He would have someone there trying to steal them.

Do you know what brand and size they are?

Now hold on a second! I thought this was meant to be a friendly forum hehe

They're AMG Alloys - 85X16H2

Other specs on them are: 112 E11 and 7400100... if you can explain what they're referring to, that'd be great!

 

[rowdie]

Friendly only goes so far when you are seeking wheels. If your's are real AMG they will have AMG here in the casting. Even if they are copies they are still sought after. From your description I think you have 8" x 16" whhels. The 112 refers to the bolt pattern 5x112.





'

 

[jd_wgd]

that's them!

 

[rowdie]

Congratulations. They are kind of rare, even in OZ.

If a tall thin man with dark hair comes around sporting a camera beware. He may be an agent sent by Nobby.

You will come to know these nefarious creatures if you stick around.