300CE W124 1988

[alastair98]

Hi all.

I am a new driver and a new proud owner of a classic Benz. However, she isn’t a garage queen and is needing some attention.

I am looking to replace the fuel tank. As mine has imploded due to vacuum issues. I have noticed the rarity of my model in the UK and understood that things might not be straight forward and quickly amended.

Can anyone point me in the right direction for a new tank and fuel system? Before I start the endeavour of paying crazy prices for items and possibly having to import such things from around the world via EBay and websites alike.

Many thanks in advance for any correspondence

Alastair

 

[Bellow]

Can the tank not be 'popped' back into shape with compressed air? Unless the seams have split (or split).

 

[alastair98]

Can the tank not be 'popped' back into shape with compressed air? Unless the seams have split (or split).

I’m having a mechanic assess the damage today, potentially too far gone but yes if we can reshape it and check the seams. It’ll save me quite a few pennies. But I would also rather it cost me a lot rather than cost me my life!!!

 

[Bellow]

I’m having a mechanic assess the damage today, potentially too far gone but yes if we can reshape it and check the seams.

I've done it before with a small oil tank from a bike. There's a better chance of regaining full shape with a larger tank but it would have to get very close to original shape for the sake of the pump and gauge.

It’ll save me quite a few pennies. But I would also rather it cost me a lot rather than cost me my life!!!

Re leaking - it falls into the category of it works or it doesn't. You'd know early on if it didn't.

 

[alastair98]

I've done it before with a small oil tank from a bike. There's a better chance of regaining full shape with a larger tank but it would have to get very close to original shape for the sake of the pump and gauge.

Re leaking - it falls into the category of it works or it doesn't. You'd know early on if it didn't.

Am I right in thinking that I can take a tank from a smaller engine model? It’s the same chassis so can just bolt in.

Does it matter if it comes from a saloon opposed to a coupe?

 

[Gollom]

Am I right in thinking that I can take a tank from a smaller engine model? It’s the same chassis so can just bolt in.

Does it matter if it comes from a saloon opposed to a coupe?

I'm sure I read somewhere that it is far cheaper to just get the old one copied by a decent metal fabricator? (Lots still around on small industrial estates)

Oh and welcome. Nice on rescuing an oldie! And in true MBClub fashion:

 

[Bellow]

Am I right in thinking that I can take a tank from a smaller engine model? It’s the same chassis so can just bolt in.

Worth investigating further. Scrutinise photos of the smaller tank for sale on e-bay (etc) and maybe get an idea if it'll fit or - spot a reason not to. Second-hand on e-bay tends to have better photos. You can then buy new if available.

Does it matter if it comes from a saloon opposed to a coupe?

I wouldn't know - but see above.

 

[alastair98]

I'm sure I read somewhere that it is far cheaper to just get the old one copied by a decent metal fabricator? (Lots still around on small industrial estates)

Oh and welcome. Nice on rescuing an oldie! And in true MBClub fashion:

I’ll have to make some more enquiries then!
And yes in glad to have found her and give her a new life. SORN since 2004!!!

 

[ray_hennig]

Am I right in thinking that I can take a tank from a smaller engine model? It’s the same chassis so can just bolt in.

May be worth contacting breaker's yards for a replacement - get them to confirm part number. My guess is that saloon/coupé tanks would be the same. Estate likely different.

Standard tanks are 70 litre capacity. Mine has the optional 90 litre. Worth chacking that too as your boot trims can be different between the 70/90litre tanks. I know this as I got a boot carpet from another car and it's too big!

Good hunting.

RayH

 

[alabbasi]

You should be able to still buy a fuel tank but certainly try to pop yours out using compressed air and a blow gun.

 

[carat 3.6]

The estate fuel tank is different, but the tank from a saloon may work.

Like the others have said, I think I'd try to pressurize it with air before removing it.

 

[optimusprime]

alastair98 This will be very helpful to you Model 124 Maintenance Manual Index​