Slowing your Pagoda down is not something we want to do as drivers, but something you must be able to do. Good brakes are the difference between a pleasurable driving experience and a dangerous one. We’ve developed our Brake Check to ensure your Pagoda’s brakes and associated components are in top order. Our service also considers the difference between the 230SL, the 250SL and 280SL.

WHY DO OUR CHECKS DIFFER BETWEEN MODELS?

The 230 SL (1963 – 1966) possesses drum brakes to the rear and discs at the front.

Whereas the 250 & 280 SL possess disc brakes on all four corners.

We therefore check a 230 SL differently to the 250 and 280 SLs.

Our expert craftsmen will test your brakes in the real-world conditions to establish common issues such as pulling, squeaking, sticking or weak functioning. They will then inspect each component individually, considering obvious elements such as discs and pads, before removing and checking caliper movement, condition of the flexi hoses, brake lines and brake fluid. Further investigation may require assessing the condition of the master cylinder and handbrake shoes. The latter is a more time-consuming job as the rear shoes need to be removed on 250SL and 280SL variants.

A 230SL requires a similar process but instead the focus is on elements such as the wheel cylinders which are common for leaking, preventing the shoes from being pushed out effectively. Similarly, the shoes can seize at the pin, also preventing their movement and thus limiting braking ability.

WHY SHOULD I CONSIDER A BRAKE CHECK?

Our Brake Check will drastically improve performance of your vehicle, transforming journeys from what can be a taxing experience into a journey you don’t want to end. Tending to your brakes will benefit the whole vehicle in the long run, preventing unnecessary stress on the transmission, the tyres and the driver. Brakes that don’t work will force more engine braking which isn’t always good for your mechanicals.

A Brake Check will also give you the reassurance that you can use your vehicle with confidence. We’ll ensure you leave with the best performing Pagoda. This check will also be detailed in your service history, so should you choose to sell it, you’ll be able to command a higher price for your vehicle.

Oliver is our dedicated Heritage Mercedes-Benz advisor who will work with you on a 1-2-1 basis to give your classic Mercedes-Benz the care it deserves.

In the beginning, R107 customers started bringing their 1960s cars to SLSHOP. Following this, we’ve grown into a dedicated workshop specifically for cars of this era. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of Pagodas. Of those, some are here for final touches, some for initial assessment, and everything in between. After all, every Pagoda’s needs are different. And it’s not just SLs in this workshop, either… In addition, we regularly see earlier SLs and all manner of saloons, coupes, and convertibles from this glorious era of style and statement.

So step back in time and browse our 1960s workshop here. Because who doesn’t love eyeing beautiful old cars!

Tour all buildings here

ENJOY YOUR VEHICLE WITH CONFIDENCE. PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT FOR AS LITTLE AS £55.00 PER MONTH