Mercedes-Benz 280 SE W108 paintwork with rust findings
This 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE W108 originally came to us for a new paint job. However, after the initial inspection, it became clear that the scope of work would be more extensive. Together with the owner, we discovered numerous small and large rust spots under the lift.
Three rusted-through doors further extended the project. What was planned as a W108 paint job became a job requiring thorough bodywork and rust removal first. Without this preparatory work, a new paint job would have been pointless.
Especially with a Mercedes W108, the true condition of the body often only becomes apparent from underneath. Underbody protection, old repairs, sealant, and previous layers of paint can conceal issues that will later become visible. Therefore, with this Mercedes, the metal had to speak for itself first, not the paint.
Mercedes 280 SE as a W108 sedan of the late 1960s
The Mercedes-Benz 280 SE belongs to the W108 series and was built from 1968 onwards. The sedan represents the more understated Mercedes design of the late 1960s, without the tailfins of its predecessors. However, for the restoration, the specific condition of this particular vehicle is more important than its model history.
When inspecting a W108 sedan, the most important factors are the body structure, doors, sills, jack points, wheel arches, floor areas, and any previous repairs. Chrome trim, moldings, and seals must also be carefully removed and inspected before painting. If this work is done too quickly, rust spots often remain precisely where water and dirt can later penetrate.
The 280 SE features the M130 six-cylinder engine with fuel injection. While the engine and mechanical components weren't the primary focus here, such a car still requires meticulous reassembly after bodywork and paintwork. Electrics, door mechanisms, seals, trim, chrome parts, and interior components must all be properly reinstalled.
Body construction, doors and paint finish on the W108
In this project, the three rusted-through doors were a particular focus. Doors on the Mercedes-Benz W108 are not just replaceable outer skins. Lower edges, folds, drain holes, sealing surfaces, hinge areas, and trim strip mountings must be carefully inspected before a decision is made regarding repair or replacement.
In our workshops, rust spots are exposed, poor previous work is assessed, and weakened areas are repaired according to the findings. Bodywork, corrosion protection, cavity protection, seam sealing, door jambs, and paint preparation are all integral parts of this project. A flawless classic car paint job doesn't begin in the paint booth, but with the preparation of the bodywork.
The underbody also required closer inspection. Small rust spots might seem harmless, but more extensive damage to sills, jack points, wheel arches, or heavily stressed areas significantly alters the scope of work. Therefore, it was the right decision to discuss the findings with the owner on the lift and adjust the original plan accordingly.
Have the W108 thoroughly inspected before painting.
This Mercedes-Benz 280 SE W108 clearly demonstrates why a planned paint job on an older vehicle rarely remains just that – a paint job. When rust is visible underneath the car and the doors are already rusted through, the bodywork needs to be sound first.
If you're planning to have a Mercedes W108, Mercedes W109, or another classic Mercedes sedan painted or restored, photos of the doors, sills, jack points, underbody, wheel arches, engine compartment, and interior will be helpful. At our workshops in the Czech Republic, we'll assess how the bodywork, rust removal, painting, mechanical components, and interior fittings can be best planned.
