[Andre_PT]

Hello!

I have a 300 SL from 1989. I am starting to prepare a complete overhaul of my car's interior, which ideally would include swapping my current center console.

I have the manual version with "dual zones" (1st picture below), and would prefer (for several reasons) the "advanced" automatic control unit (2nd picture after).

I understand how this will be an expensive and laborious project.

At this point I am focus on identifying the main steps and obstacles on swapping the center console and respective commands/buttons, along with the control units behind.

Ideally, I would be first swapping the console and controls, and not install the AC unit (just running it on manual). I am counting as much as possible on getting used spared parts.

The AC part, meaning getting a AC unit and remaining components, I would like to leave it for a later stage, as I am still looking ideally for an electric unit.

Any advice and information would be greatly appreciated!

Current specs

Desired new console:

 

[rick]

I hate to upset your plans. What you have is better than what you are looking to change to. The more automatic system has much more OLD electronics, vacuum solenoids, valves, and rubber diagrams which will fail.

 

[roncallo]

If this is a LHD car it would probably be best to source all under dash parts from the USA. A lot of the 560SL parts should be the same as the LHD 300SL and all US spec 560SL' s came with the automatic air you seek.

 

[Andre_PT]

I hate to upset your plans. What you have is better than what you are looking to change to. The more automatic system has much more OLD electronics, vacuum solenoids, valves, and rubber diagrams which will fail.

Eheheh thanks Rick from your contribution. You have a good point. Obviously the "fully manual" is always better. And I have been hearing a lot about the faulty nature of the more "advance" systems. How robust is it (or not)?

 

[Andre_PT]

If this is a LHD car it would probably be best to source all under dash parts from the USA. A lot of the 560SL parts should be the same as the LHD 300SL and all US spec 560SL' s came with the automatic air you seek.

Definitely doing that. Thanks! Do you have an idea of how far "down" beyond the dash parts I need to go? I don't have a diagram to understand all that needs to be replaced.

 

[ic-racer]

I'd probably remove the engine, transmission and diff., disassemble them and rebuild them first, then work on the AC control conversion...that is, do the easy stuff first

Actually the only thing of value I might add is this picture of the control box on my 1989 sl560 and a picture showing that the wood mounting lugs of an aftermarket wood panel were wrong, compared to the original.