Mercedes-Benz Ponton cabriolet e coupé, W128/W180
This family of cars is equipped with a very complete and elegant wood trim. Are used the three exquisite wood species chosen by Mercedes at the time; the quality of these veneers it is almost always exceptional and so it is nowadays very difficult find an equivalent in case of veneers replacement.
The following are the frequent problems of woodtrim for this models:
- the dashboard is constructed with several solid beech pieces glued together, that were then milled in desired shape. All the bonding of solid wood planks tend to become loose. The first visible symptoms are cracks surface of veneers. Normally, this is visible near the windows where the windscreen curves. In this case the old veneers must be replaced and shall be made new bonding on the solid wood. This is a very demanding task.
- under the binnacle there is a long, very thin and delicate profile. This has the tendency to break in the center, where is a further section reduction. Generally, I apply a composite material reinforcement.
- the A-pillar cover must be reinforced as much as possible in the corner area. The A-pillar covers are made from the bonding of two solid wood planks. Very often this bonding arrives to our days in a inconsistent way.
- the radio and loudspeaker grille are constructed with a several bonding of solid wood Beech. Also here, it is necessary to proceed with a structural intervention.