First Drive in 24 years! | Mercedes 190SL Restoration (Part 7) | Classic Obsession | Episode 57

With the deadline with Big Bob’s classic car meet looming at the end of the week, Gary must have the Mercedes 190SL back on the road. So the new Weber carbs have to be tuned, the seats painted, new door and soft top seals fitted, paint and soft top cleaned…the list goes on. How will it fair on its first drive in 24 years?!
Special thanks to Kolorbond by Technispray Paints Ltd:
www.kolorbond.co.uk/
Created with the support of Footman James, classic vehicle insurance specialists and founders of
Coffee and Chrome Collective: www.footmanjames.co.uk/
Created with the support of IntroCar, International Rolls-Royce and Bentley Parts Specialists:
www.introcar.com/
Use code “MAVERS” for site wide discount on Rolls-Royce and Bentley parts.

[@Vince_uk]

Everything about this Channel Gary is just pure class.

[@brownson1970]

its probably the best vibe car channel going

[@OB928]

You’re like the Bob Ross of auto repair, restoration and maintenance.

[@brownson1970]

thats brilliant totally!!

[@WeeShoeyDugless]

The look on the old guys face when he spoke of Heffners 300SL was priceless👍🏻👌🏻

[@classic.obsession]

Hindsight hey? The cars that guy owned and sold thinking he’d made a good profit at the time and what those cars are worth today. Regards.

[@tedium37]

What an expert service. You've rolled decades off this car's clock. It's a lovely mechanical gem.

[@mikejames4540]

With a combination of the music and Gary’s quiet voice, excellent camera work and the deliberateness of the mechanical work, he makes car restoration look like a relaxing hobby. He even shrugs off the incredible cost of items like the new sealing rubbers. Oh that it really was like that for us mortals…

[@WeeShoeyDugless]

The costs of new parts from Mercedes are truly eye-watering for these really old models but, do you know of any other manufacturer who offers such a wide service of OEM parts for so many of it's older (very old!) models? Doubt it.

[@user-bk7pg1ny5l]

Gary knows every part of this car - beautuful car.

[@classic.obsession]

Thanks for subscribing and your continued support..

[@scott-gg8iq]

Thanks for helping video Bob. We appreciate you

[@classic.obsession]

Pleasure.Scott.he’s s good guy and the car deserves to be back on the road but there’s no denying, it’s a lot of work. The garage who do work on his shadow are an interesting bunch. Regards.

[@grahamhunter4996]

My dad worked in the ship yards on Clydebank and between worked in Callanders Merc franchise in the sixties, how did he know that the technology. Like you a true LEGEND of self taught. Luve your vids

[@classic.obsession]

I bought a 220se coup twenty years ago from a deceased clergyman in Aberdeen. It was unbelievably original and has the Challanders plate on the sill. I believe these were the main distributors exporters of Mercedes and were based in Glasgow is that correct? Regards.

[@grahamhunter4996]

ABSOULUTE Genius. Or perhaps Alchamist.Stunning ❤😊

[@LZDEN]

splendid work Gary, the owner will be so pleased and proud to drive that car and behold the great work you have done. well done to you.

[@blarkdexture8899]

Painting the white stitching isn't very nice

[@colinchampollion4420]

​@@blarkdexture8899I agree ~he restoring on a budget😮!

[@classic.obsession]

It was discussed in detail with Dan and I even had the special thin masking tape which is specified for the job. But he didn’t want the white stitching. Regards.

[@johnmcfall375]

Another labour intensive job made to look easy. Can’t believe the difference that interior refresh made. Well Done Gary 👍🏻

[@johnmoruzzi7236]

That green and tan XK8 needs some wheels like Jimmy’s Jag in Memento !

[@gregorcameron8638]

A delight to view - very therapeutic watching the leather refurb !

[@charliejackman2953]

What an amazing transformation on that leather! I am truly astounded! And the masking off - that was a work of art in itself! Well done Gary

[@g4zzauk]

Its great watching a knowledgeable guy bringing these old beauties back to life, long may it continue, love your channel gary.

[@earthstick]

The owner is going to be really pleased with that.

[@richardgraham1167]

190SL looking better with each episode.

[@stinkintoad]

Gorgeous car. Your attention to detail is nice to see nowadays.

[@antonmandryko9209]

Wow sound of doors closing car.👋👍

[@jasonhill5070]

You have answered my prayers as I have a Volvo XC60 interior to re-colour but can't get a match on the paint.

[@spencerbrowning4126]

Gary Sir, that has just made my afternoon ! You have made a superb job of that car, you are living the dream in my eyes. Love the BRG XK Cabrio, very Englishman in the U.S ! Can't wait for the next episode, possibly a red car we'll see next time ...

[@user-kl9pm2cr1m]

Im sure Dan is absolutely delighted with the results. What a car 👍

[@jamesellsworth9673]

This has been a fine series and a testament to doing 'the little things.' Beyond that: you show a complete range of film skills from presenting to directing to editing. The car, you: all a 'tour de force' for all of us.

[@classic.obsession]

Much appreciated James! Means a lot mate! Regards

[@davebarron5939]

Devils in the details, you get an "A" for Effort on this one, well done.

[@eddylauterback1312]

Admit it, you're missing the rain and cold back in UK!?!

[@marianonunez1579]

I'm fanatic classic car lover. congratulations and greetings from Spain.

[@OldLien1]

you have put a LOT of hard work in this car Gary I hope the owner realises just how much 🤣

[@classic.obsession]

So do I !! Regards

[@davidclark3603]

That's absolutely gorgeous!!!!!

[@life_on_cars]

Amazing job Gary

[@martinclapton2724]

Detail touches that make all the difference. As ever, Gary, a very well done.

[@timshaw8187]

Good for the soul Gary, excellent work and detail

[@kurtbrueske]

Nice job Gary….the SL looked nice at Bob’s Big Boy with the evening sun and palm trees. Love your posts, thanks for sharing with us.

[@alexandersalomon8257]

Awesome work Gary. No stone left unturned 👌👍

[@almathias6538]

Another great resurrection by Gary. I’ve said this before, if this guy went into business, he’d be a millionaire many times over. With his attention to detail and care of the product, there are car owners, who lust after guys like him to work on their stuff. I’m one of them.

[@rogerpritchard]

The car was in quite good shape to start with, if it was in the uk it would have been rusty all over! I stayed at sherman oaks and then santa monica, love the place. My brother knew Rod Stewart then. Great work and result Gary.

[@crauuford]

Beautifully done Gary. You came along at the perfect time to get this beauty back on the road. Hard to believe some of the mechanical work done in the past. The Mercedes parts may be pricey but thankfully they are still providing them all these years later. I know there were some parts errors along the way but for the most part a lot bits from the manufacturer.

[@gmac7947]

What a car Gary 🚗 great series ✈️☀️

[@bobfrankish8883]

Well done Gary, great work.

[@skyjockbill]

What a gem of a restoration - chapeau Gary!

[@brownson1970]

love these almost as much as a gullwing!! but never against a 1970 911s!! come on Gazza la! get a 911s late 60s early 70s on board (if you aint already so excuse moi) when I lived in callly in the early 90s you would see 911s and 912s everywhere and for sale for 6-8k dollars !! even saw a 550a on someones drive in Portola San Fran!! totally adore that orange/tobacco colour interior, just classic class!!! you MUST of had an engineer or serious builder/carpenter etc in the genes as you are meticulous but never boring in your work, actually your from a very artistic family as we know!!! POWER to ya and from the golden pool city too!! C'EST BEAU MON FRERE!

[@classic.obsession]

15 years ago you threw a stick and hit twenty classic cars in LA. No more. They’ve all been bought by Europeans. Now when you see them in LA p Ed pole stop and stare. And you’re right…the cars I’ve spotted in driveways there with flat tires covered in leaves. Still some rare cars there though. Watch the Alex Manos vid I did. Regards.

[@brownson1970]

@@classic.obsession absolutely, I will watch it all, there's something VERY different gary about your channel, im a complete Porsche nut, had an RSK718 kit I nearly killed myself in at donny!!!, while ago thank god, keep up the fantastic work and tell lee Derry (pop) from EMF and Joanne send their luv a dub!! xx

[@jamied501]

Wonderful work Gary. Thank you for sharing with us.

[@blackcat62]

The best car channel. Pure joy and class

[@stewartevans3875]

Hey Gary ! A pleasure to watch as usual and great to see the old girl back up and running and nicely finished. $25 for two washers - unbelievable and how much for those rubbers....🤣🤣 The work you put into the leather was really worth it and didnt look too over restored and what a lovey colour ! Awesone episode as usual and look forward to more red car work v soon ! Cheers Stew

[@classic.obsession]

But stew….how about the wheel tracking..? $275 !!!!! For wheel alinement!

[@stewartevans3875]

@@classic.obsession - Not all robbers wear masks egh ? Thats crazy money .... is everything really just that expensive in CA ?

[@classic.obsession]

Gone nuts mate! $12 for a pinta Guiness!

[@stewartevans3875]

@classic.obsession - Ouch -£6 here in Rugeley ...although weather not so good ...tastes the same though I guess ..!

[@rustyfox81]

Surely this man is the son of God ?

[@classic.obsession]

Wait til you meet my father!! Regards

[@rustyfox81]

@@classic.obsession hopefully not for a while !

[@johneddison8430]

This as been great to follow can't wait for more.

[@chrisward2954]

So enjoyed this video. The car is just beautiful, well done Gary.

[@alanbower9296]

GARY ENJOYED WATCHING THIS VIDEO, WHAT A BEAUTIFUL MERCEDES 190SL ❤ UK

[@simonelliott5956]

What a credit to you this car is Gary!

[@bigladdan]

Really enjoyed watching this series, thanks Gary.

[@brandywell44]

Well done Gary, that was some mission you took on and you did a nice reinstatement on that beautiful car.

[@thebigchip]

A perfectly paced video for a Sunday morning. Production company quality. I just can’t believe how few subscribers. Thank you Gary.

[@carlotomass119]

Best car show fantastically presented

[@MrMfaust5]

Thank you so much Gary for sharing your first rate restoration of your beautiful 190SL. Your Mercedes-Benz is indeed happy! I was truly taken back by the cost of the seals, WOW! On the other hand, it's far better to find and install high quality seals than the Chinese junk that has flooded the parts market!

[@scottpsychodub6385]

Fabulous results for your meticulous work 🏆👍 Ps I think you forgot to put the number plate on?

[@discodiana1984]

How on earth could some of these fiddly parts still be stocked so long after the car was in production. It blows my mind.

[@classic.obsession]

I think some are parts that rarely go wrong so stocks are still plentiful like the brake pins. As cars get older, problems come about that we’ve not experienced before. We’re always learning. Regards.

[@peterduxbury927]

Yes, but (i think in this day and age), it would be possible to manufacture almost any part for the Mercedes 190 SL or any other car. We have computerised machines, digital scanning, 3D Printers and much more. If the cost is not a factor.

[@scottstrails9369]

Great to see things coming together after all your hard work,fun in the sun

[@alexday5892]

Lovely video again Gary. Must cost you a fortune to be flying your brass band with you to LA each time 😜. Looking forward to seeing more of the Elite once you are back to Blighty. Safe travels buddy.

[@csnelling4]

Very good job done Gary 🥇

[@classic.obsession]

Brass band?!! I wish! Just little old me!! Regards

[@leehayes70]

Should be on the tv. Just ace

[@jimmypratt6450]

You made a nice job of that interior Gary 👍, stripping parts off old cars should be avoided when needed it can open up a can of worms and headaches been there many times.

[@davidclark3603]

That's a nice car that. I still prefer your roller!

[@classic.obsession]

I’ll be making a start on the red corniche soon. Regards.

[@philipmulville8218]

This channel is superb. Each upload is an absolute treat - beautiful music too. Thank you Gary.

[@NHSeidler]

Wonderful to see. Beautiful car.......great skills......... good humour...........whats not to like ❤

[@davidtwittey4613]

Cracking episode! Love the car meets there you have shown to us. This episode the leather prep & finishing was really helpful Thank you

[@robmurphy6077]

Superb work

[@andrewwaldron3667]

Love watching your videos Gary. I love cars but don't really have any mechanical expertise or knowledge. I could probably do a basic service but nothing more. Just enjoy watching you do something that you obviously love, explaining each step along the way. I wouldn't dare tackle the stuff you do, and would never have the patience, but love watching you doing it.

[@tvdel]

Pure quality video

[@johnmclean7212]

pure joy to watch

[@f1kwa399]

Harbour Freight torches come in handy, I have several from when I lived in LA, I used to go to Bobs in Burbank on a Friday night too, a real mix of classics and hot rods, great video - thanks. Hugh Hefner had a 190SL also.

[@notchboy]

Nice to see it come together. Looking good! 😎🤙🌺

[@ronniewilson6597]

Great video Gary 👍🏻😀

[@digitalimager4946]

Indicating right and turning left! 🤪

[@classic.obsession]

Ha! None cancelling!!

[@Simon-ry1lw]

And at the end, the car meet, chuffing brilliant 😊 It does rain a bit in LA, it was like that 15 years ago

[@e140403]

Gary I admire your thoroughness and patience. Your work is more than automobile restoration it is art ! Thank you so much for a wonderful video. It brings warmth to a cold Saturday morning here in Montréal

[@nsdlsarn]

Thank you once again for a very good video

[@Dg-zj6jo]

brilliant as always what a lovely job you have done again

[@45flydalton]

Amazing work !!!

[@JAYREAD]

What a lovely video! Thank you!

[@lukemallory7832]

The more I look at it, the more the W113 makes sense.

[@0132222]

Well that was a great journey Gary. The solexes idle at 750rpm. But im not picking.. i want to give my inferior the GM treatment ! That was bloody impressive. Product + elbow grease. Need to hunt it down.

[@classic.obsession]

Ha! It’s just an initial first set up as you know. But I think these 190’s do run sweeter on Solex. Regards

[@0132222]

They are sweeter but need to be set just right. Most are not fitted correctly and have air leaks on secondaries so rubbish idle. I want to attack my interior now following your program. Brilliant work!

[@0132222]

just ordered the 3 piece interior kit from Kolorbond... ready for some elbow grease ..!@@classic.obsession

[@nielskjr5432]

To ride in this beauty the next months, when it gets a little warmer? You lucky guy👍

[@peteronay381]

Thank you, Gary. So enjoyable. It looks stunning, WELL DONE.

[@peterjones4785]

Beautiful car, great vid

[@chrisballs6848]

Zen as ever ❤.

[@peterconnor4193]

Great work mate,

[@pedrosalas4460]

What a marvelous restauration You are the best. Always a joy watching your videos Gary

[@as3cs3]

wow. that interior trim has came up fantastic

[@matthewhaddon599]

I thought Jaguar parts are dear enough...£25 for 2 washers...wow...I would definitely have made those. Certainly a nice job though.

[@vicjones3992]

Well done Gary ........great job

[@Stan_55UK]

You have made this into a superb car :)

[@stukatz3903]

You, Sir are an inspiration. Very well done!

[@neildonaldsonlotusexcelresto]

Looks like you've done a few interiors in your time Gary..

[@TwizyMan]

Just brilliant!

[@manuelhung7571]

Tend to go for Meguiars for most automotive chemicals. Plast-X is great for modern headlight lenses in plastic, buffs out some very bad crazing, bleaching and scratches. Good for any hard plastics on cars.

[@malcolmharvey397]

The underside needs ice blasting to get the caked dirt from around the suspension

[@classic.obsession]

Agreed Malc. It’s all I go on about but where are these places? Regards

[@kyivwithgeofftanya5546]

My only cringe was when you had the cardboard box of new seals on the boot lid, cardboard is very abrasive on paint. Great video, as usual, with a lot of great tips for classic owners

[@classic.obsession]

Before I polished it..!! Regards

[@kyivwithgeofftanya5546]

@@classic.obsession good to hear, having being in retail I discovered the hard way about cardboard

[@Erwinhooi]

Awesome episode, emaculate result!👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 enjoyed it!

[@shane6115]

I love these videos, excellent work fella, would a up to date electronic fuel injection system not be better than twin carbs, I think you’d have less hassle and a better running engine with the injection system.

[@classic.obsession]

I agree but trying to keep it as original as possible. I know it was Solex carb’s originally but since it was on webbers, was much less faff. Regards

[@shane6115]

@@classic.obsession. Thanks Gary love ❤️ your channel. I’m only a change oil and filter man myself so I love watching experts like you.

[@peterconnor4193]

In England we have rust to contend with , in Southern California the sun is not kind especially to the interiors of convertibles

[@apb3251]

6:54 makes you wonder if it’s leather or vinyl. Surely leather cleaner for leather or vinyl cleaner for vinyl

[@classic.obsession]

It’s leather and even though it’s called vinyl clean it’s for leather also. Regards.

[@DS246416]

Fantastic episode!