Corrosion What went wrong at the factory

[230K]

Hi all

Does anyone know what MB did wrong with their cars in the 96-99 period to cause the corrosion problems that some of us are experiencing now especially with silver.
Also what if any panels on a 210 are galvanised.

Brian

300TD (X2)

 

[gary350]

Hi all

Does anyone know what MB did wrong with their cars in the 96-99 period to cause the corrosion problems that some of us are experiencing now especially with silver.
Also what if any panels on a 210 are galvanised.

Brian

300TD (X2)

I have not got your answer, but if you look at some of the usa slk sites they also mention corrosion with pictures showing the most popular places for rust. So far I don,t have any rust signs yet (98 Sep 230K)

 

[Simon]

Honest John might have the answer. An interesting read anyway.

 

[Dieselman]

Two things

1. Water based paints were introduced which don't give the same protection as solvent based paints. and

2. the paint is sprayed thinnerto stop sagging because it takes longer to dry.
In addition the pigments allow full coverage in one coat so....

None of the exterior panels are galvanised but the underside of the car and the frame is. In the case of W210 models this accounts for 48% of the metal against 42% in the W124.

 

[MBenzNL]

Less paint per car - cheaper manufacturing costs...

greetingz,

 

[Aletank]

Less paint per car

There was a programme on Home & Leisure with a old SL on it and they said the paint alone weighed 20kg.