The Rebuild! | 1983 Mercedes W123 280CE Restoration

Go to thld.co/shakerandspoon_restor... and use code restore to get $20 off your first box! Thanks to Shaker & Spoon for sponsoring today's video.
In this episode of Restore It, I finish the Mercedes W123! Kind of...
W123 World - / w123world
Smiths Cars - / smithcarsandspares
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Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
01:30 - Shaker & Spoon
02:45 - Removing the masking
02:58 - Installing the rear lights
03:11 - Installing the rear badge
03:19 - Installing the boot latch
03:25 - Installing the rear bumper
04:09 - Installing the rear light trim
04:14 - Installing the boot trim
04:21 - Installing the boot lining
04:37 - Installing the dashboard
05:15 - Installing the rear left window
05:50 - Installing the rear right window
05:58 - Installing the passenger seat/trim
06:12 - Installing the front left window
06:50 - dying the parcel shelf
07:55 - Installing the parcel
08:10 - Installing the first aid kit
08:17 - Installing the rear speakers
08:46 - Fixing a door-locking component
09:09 - Installing the front right window & testing
09:49 - Installing the rear seats & starting exterior trim
10:01 - Installing the rear right window
10:15 - Installing the rear right door card
10:42 - Installing the front left door card
11:00 - This happened way too many time
11:59 - Installing the left-wing mirror
12:08 - Installing the front right door card
12:14 - Installing the driver's side footwell trim
12:49 - Installing the driver's seat
13:18 - Installing the exahust heatsheilds
13:56 - Installing the fusebox cover
14:04 - Installing the water drains
14:14 - Installing the HVAC & brake lines
14:22 - Installing the prop shaft
14:32 - Installing all of the ancillaries to the engine
14:38 - Installing the starter motor
14:52 - Installing the exhaust manifolds
15:02 - Installing the alternator
15:11 - Installing the engine mounts
15:18 - Installing the gearbox linkage
15:44 - Installing the engine
18:29 - Tightening the engine and gearbox
18:51 - Cleaning the windscreen rubbers
19:36 - Gluing the headlining down
20:27 - Installing the rubbers onto the windscreens
21:06 - Installing the exterior middle-side trim
22:08 - Installing the throttle cable mount
22:13 - Installing various engine bay parts
22:31 - Installing the headlights
22:40 - drilling a hole for the headlight wiper arm
22:52 - Installing the front bumper rubbers
23:07 - Installing the front bumper
23:14 - Installing front lower trim bits
23:32 - Installing the bonnet latch
23:41 - Installing the front grill
23:56 - Installing the engine bay weather strip
24:05 - Torquing everything from back to front
24:16 - Installing the side window trim
24:39 - Installing the side weather strips
24:49 - The pattern wing is useless
25:25 - The results & thanks for watching!
If you have any questions about the restoration, the tools I'm using or anything else, just ask me in the comments. I read them all and try to reply as soon as possible.
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[@RestoreIt]

Go to thld.co/shakerandspoon_restore_1022 and use code restore to get $20 off your first box! Thanks to Shaker & Spoon for sponsoring today's video

[@ssenssel]

I was expecting you at the end to stare at the finished result and then proceed to smash this car against a brick wall to represent impermanence, in the same vain Buddhist monks do with very intricate mandalas. But hey, this car is not yours so I get it. Great work as always.

[@Saskinny]

GREAT job! And that's EXACTLY how to install side trim, by the way. Also, I never get tired of how different the names are for the same part/tool. :) UK USA Boot Trunk Bonnet Hood Door Card Door Panel Rubbers Seals Spanner Wrench Drains/Piping Lines Windscreen Windshield

[@Saskinny]

Oh and Wing iin the UK and Fender in the USA. Keep the great work coming!

[@dudenamedclem]

I'm really happy this project is behind you, I know it's bittersweet how things turned out and from you've demonstrated an immense level of commitment, a perfect demonstration of a man who is true to his word.

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks, Clem! Bittersweet is exactly how I feel at the moment. And I appreciate that dude.

[@RobWool]

So happy for you and thanks for bringing us along.

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks for coming for the ride with me Rob!

[@CH4NNELZERO]

Bro it's looking sooo good already. The next episode it will be stunning I just know it. I know the owner has reasons to moan but it's been great to hear exactly why this project was so challenging and in my opinion the owner is actually incredibly lucky. He'll have one of the best restored W23s in existence, something that will continue to give him pleasure every day and it's all thanks to you and your willingness to take on projects like this.

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks mate! You're spot on about everything apart from the best restored W123. This was just a tidy up in my opinion. Even the with shear amount of work involved, so much more could have been done. The E30 is going to be up with the best :D Big thanks mate.

[@DrMJJr]

OMG!! Hallelujah!!!🎉🎉🎉 TBH, it’s hard to believe it’s been 2 years?!? Well it’s been an awesome ride along the way, so I could care less because it’s been so fascinating and watching a professional do the job RIGHT…it’s totally been worth it. Also, thanks to Scott, hehe 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks Michael! I know.. I have no idea where the time has gone. Oh you're too kind Michael, I certainly don't feel like a profesional after this Mercedes... I feel defeated haha. Thanks for sticking with me through this! And yes, a huge thanks to Scott. I honestly couldn't have done it without him.

[@dan725]

I’m just so happy a classic will soon be back on the road looking fresh and rust-free! Just bravo to you for making it happen!!!

[@brendanmatthys3788]

As someone who's on the tail end of a 2 month long project on my dad's car, I can only imagine what you're feeling right now. The blood, sweat and tears you'd have from this job, and the confidence for next time from all that learning must be astounding! And it has the added benefit of turning out excellently -- you ought to be really proud of yourself, even if it blew out quite a bit. I know how perfectionism can set in and push things way out, it's a real struggle

[@danielprivate7442]

What a heartbreaker on that quarter panel. Looking forward to the last installment.

[@RestoreIt]

Very annoying, Daniel! Cheers mate

[@JGV_IX]

Jeepers, what a job! But well done!! I tip my hat to you! You’ll have bragging rights for life that you restored this beauty! Now on to the BMW 😎😏

[@peterwynnychuk5085]

I hope this owner really appreciates the extra work and money you donated to their car. Very good job I like the quality and persistence in your craftsmanship/ videos.

[@mozartcarclassics]

Hall of Fame series ❤

[@michaelskinner896]

Nice update - It's so nice when you can see the light at the end of a tunnel!

[@RestoreIt]

Cheers Michael! One more episode and im free

[@bastogne315]

Your wonderful...well done young man. You are a celebrity ☺️

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks Bastogne!

[@bastogne315]

@@RestoreIt Thank you 😊

[@partytempo]

Can't wait for the e30...I mean yay Mercedes! 😉

[@RestoreIt]

Haha I with you Chris!

[@austinvitoux]

Almost finished!! Looking good!

[@sriramsrinivasan8617]

Man, I didnt take my eyes off for the entire video. Great job!

[@VSB83]

Amazing work!!!

[@Prah123]

congratulations

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks, prah!

[@Evermoregreen23451]

Well done. Nothing better than an individual who recognises his errors.

[@kieranmann9761]

Well done!! Great job installing engine and transmission by yourself!!

[@reviewaccount469]

Beautiful work sir! Your channel and others have inspired me to tackle my own restoration projects at home. Keep up the great work!

[@M1LAD81]

Wow, it's a huge achievement Steve to reach this monumental milestone. I've been watching you for many years but couldn't believe it's been two years since that merc arrived. Wow. Looking forward as much as you once this car gets out the doors for good! Keep on churning out the brilliant content!

[@arnhemseptember2009]

Looking absolutely VERY good already!

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks, arnhem!

[@mndlessdrwer]

I can see why the owner would want this thing restored. The interior is in shockingly good condition for the age. A shame it's a relatively rare model and isn't worth most restorers' time and effort to bring back to life. Looks great and the work seems really solid.

[@RedPandaLesbian]

What a relief this must be! I hope that, however out of hand this project has gotten, the owner at least respects your commitment to doing the best possible job you could do for them and not compromising the quality of the work that needed to be done.

[@geion54]

Beautiful job, well done.

[@robertevans6481]

This car would make anyone to start drinking...i had a beer just watching the video...

[@cp4512]

Great progress; can’t wait to see the finished car. I’ve enjoyed watching this Merc but now I’m really looking forward to getting back onto your BMW.

[@w123h]

Nice work! Great respect from Germany.

[@urischwartz6711]

You are a very resourceful young man, my hat's off to you!

[@Vincent9895]

36k views?? No no youtube give this man the credit he deserves

[@user-gv4tn9nb7f]

Beautiful car and great job!

[@alfredrondorf8717]

Really , a beautiful W 123 🥰🥰🥰💥

[@jacobdehaas6482]

Bravo m8! Happy to hear you’ll be working on projects you’ll actually enjoy doing

[@philipsigglekow7828]

Great job tyers look amazing

[@pesterenan]

Congratulations on your perseverance and courage do take on such a difficult and lengthy job! You should be proud! Now you're more professional than before! Nice one!!

[@datboi8140]

You could post alot of this series on TikTok. It would bring alot of new viewers to your channel. You could even hire someone to do it for you since I know you're busy. You deserve the views, give it a try

[@RestoreIt]

I actually have someone on this for me, but there have been a few delays. A great idea none the less cheers Datboi!

[@ruudmobile6726]

What a colossal repair it turned out to be... I remember you towing the 280CE in. Having once worked on a similarly impossible 380SLC myself - I thought... Oh my G... well I kneel before you, O lord of the restoration arts.

[@1leggeddog]

Brilliant work as always. Ok, so taking on this project may have been a mistake but like you said, it was a great learning experience. Great job!

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks K M! And absolutely. It's the definition of bittersweet when I think about it!

[@SupaTima]

Astonishing work!!!

[@SampleT3xT_]

This is getting existing bro ❤❤❤

[@braydenboles7162]

The car looks absolutely amazing, it’s good to hear your putting an original front fender on the car. Not only will it be stronger and the fit-ment will be better it is meant for that car! I’ve never had much luck with aftermarket with any vehicle

[@tandm86]

I'm not sure what I liked most. That gorgeous classic Mercedes or your know how and skills to be able to do what you do. Very clever.

[@Nind-yu4sz]

Wow, great results, looks like one of those regrettable moments " while I'm there i can do this" however which turned in an absolutely beautiful looking car. Great job

[@MAG-1234]

I feel for you man! I'm in the process of rebuilding 2 Chevrolet S10 trucks and the list never seems to end. Fix one problem, 3 more turn up. Keep moving forward and great work!!!

[@douglasthompson9482]

A tremendous amount of time and work. A beautiful car for sure.

[@rodrigomujica3512]

Congrats !!!!🎉

[@ilcooldj]

i'm ecstatic that this Godforsaken W123 is almost out of your life & ours! i'm kinda nostalgic to the enthusiastic attitude this channel had back in Spain in that tiny yet very well lit garage, that i think this W123 killed. After this rust bucket leaves you in peace, add some lighting, and on with the Bimmers....hoorayyyy

[@SanadWORLD1]

Good job from a good man for a legendary car. I like the one man show you do. Regards from Jordan

[@felixschaefer3905]

Oh nice thats the new Mercedes W23 😁

[@Pedro5antos_]

AWESOME! Congrats on the perfect job, mate

[@willemp6432]

I think you are forgetting some thing very important. We have enjoyed watching you do this Merc and I have grown fond of that car and are very pleased you finished it. Thanks for that..

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks Willem, a good reminder that something good came from this haha.

[@dazt103]

Well done than man 👏 You should be given medal 🏅

[@dominonyc]

Oh boy! After watching I think I’m going to scrap my 230c project 😂 Amazing job and please don’t give up on W123. Cheers

[@Imperial215]

Awesome work!

[@DashDrones]

Cannot wait, gonna watch it slow so it lasts longer 🤣😎👍

[@RestoreIt]

I can only imagine how mental that would look and sound haha

[@ezequielsilva2709]

Ótimo trabalho 👏👏

[@RestoreIt]

Cheers!

[@TheNorthernmunky]

Awesome job

[@jacobusenmez8506]

I’m happy for you 😊

[@robertsalanon2909]

Belle remise en état !! Felicitations ...

[@rodrigomujica3512]

Well done mate!! Inspiring …I am dealing with mine two..😢hope the owner is happy

[@54mgtf22]

Love your work 👍

[@theschnurrbart2260]

i remember when i started watching you in my summer holidays in and seeing you starting this project funny to see that i finished school and started to study an youre still on the merc haha

[@kermitefrog64]

Nice looking rebuild. They are a bit of work but they are an excellent car. I have a 1981 Mercedes W123 240d with a 4 speed manual transmission. This car is 41 years old but the engineering of these cars is incredible. Even at its age it is by far the best built car I have ever had. I still see these cars on the road in our small community of 65,000 in the south end of the San Joaquin Valley of California.

[@richie9777]

You should be proud! Fantastic job. I hope the owner pays you handsomely

[@punelopepunstop5515]

Woot! Break out the champagne!!!

[@art7727]

Very good work!!

[@RestoreIt]

Cheers, Aram!

[@sonyhk3824]

Congratulations, you doing awesome 👍. Cheers man

[@jacqueshenriot8949]

very very nice job. congrats !

[@-Loki--]

It's a beautiful car, the owner should consider himself extremely lucky to have put this car into your hands. I would have paid you considerably more than any Initial estimates, and been very happy to do so.

[@TheDazzaroo]

Nice job budd keep up the great work 👍👏😎

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks Darren!

[@andrewedwards6548]

About time you finished a job haha! 🤣 hopefully you won't be as stress now this is getting done! 😊 great work as always 👏

[@RestoreIt]

Tell me about it dude... I just can't wait to post for episodes on things i'm genuinely excited about!

[@andrewedwards6548]

@@RestoreIt good to hear. Wish you well for the future

[@damarwirawan1348]

when a lesson will lesson you forever. you know something just gone wrong.

[@serranoetreinta2887]

Finally!!!

[@jf1189]

beautifull car . I have the same colour, but a 300D and sedan. It was dads . What disturbs mevery much are the white wall tires. That is 50 ties American, and looks very much off on a classic German car of the seventies and eighties .. Anyhow.. be proud !

[@davebuts1921]

Great work mate.

[@RestoreIt]

Cheers Dave!

[@crowlord]

That colour is beautiful

[@RestoreIt]

It's nice, but I prefer them in a light blue!

[@GalvanizedGreatness]

Its amazing how long it’s actually need I hadn’t realized it’s been two years since the start

[@rodrigomujica3512]

Great Job. I have one myself !!! But to do this is far from my capacities… brilliant work .. hies from Chile 🇨🇱

[@BK-mh3jg]

W123 coupe was my best car I ever owned

[@RestoreIt]

Great car, just a pain to restore these days!

[@F0XD1E]

Can't believe you dropped the engine in yourself. What a madlad. Also shocked the glass seals weren't completely dry rotted.

[@RestoreIt]

Cheers Tommy! I know, I thought I was going to have to find new ones, but after a clean up they genuinely feel brand new. Great quality.

[@malcolmlane-ley2044]

Well done, I hope those lessons you learned didn't cost you too much in addition to all the time.

[@RestoreIt]

Oh it did Malcolm, but you live and learn! Cheers.

[@andunabu3238]

You did well. I’m a businessman but no lawyer. Always get a contact and always make sure it is clear what is agreed. Have a variation or get out clause that if you run into additional work there needs to be an agreement for those additional costs. Don’t be a busy fool. But we’ll done, excellent work!

[@WARXion]

"for my first customer car, I took on a coupé that the world #1 guru wouldn't restore" What a job mate, congrats on becoming the #2 guru then I guess.

[@bobjoncas2814]

LOOKIN' GOOD, KEEP SAFE...

[@RestoreIt]

Cheers, Bob! You too.

[@mihai-alexandrudzubaila585]

Nothing good came out of being comfortable! You did an awesome job and you should be proud of it. Just because you started with a hard customer job doesn’t mean that you should give up… yes it took 5 months but it was definitely worth it!

[@pascaljeske7307]

It's a very nice Car Love it and Love the Video 👍❤️👍🌹

[@houseofno]

Mercedes continuing to support cars FORTY YEARS after the end of production is impressive. Contrast that with BMW, who started to NLA (No Longer Available) BMW E32 (1988 to 1994 BMW 2nd generation 7 series) as soon as just FOUR years after the E32's end of production in April 1994. I'm still solidly in the BMW camp, but still, I find that level of support for legacy products impressive. Among the parts support BMW bricked was the SLS rear shocks (a company is Norway rebuilds these for around $500 per side) while the control diaphragm is completely NLA from anywhere (the company that built these was bought out by another company, and the parent company finally nixed production of replacement parts about ten years ago).

[@AllTorque]

Looking forward to this one!! better get a beer ... you are making me want to buy an old merc for my channel I have to say. Awesome things!!

[@RestoreIt]

Whatever you do, don't get a coupe! :D

[@AllTorque]

@@RestoreIt Hahahaha ... unfortunately that EXACTLY what I would get ... then bring it up to you as you're now the expert hahaha!

[@TheSadButMadLad]

The owner should be very happy to get such a good looking car at the end of all the work.

[@188ours]

Holy shit my grand father had a the exact same car in pristine condition. One of my uncle have it now didn't knew it was rare !

[@MrHBSoftware]

And now you still have to basically warranty the entire car since you disassembled and reassembled almost everything, if something stops working within 2 years the customer will blame it on you and demand you fix it...welcome the marvelous world of auto mechanics. He wont care if you took 3 times the time you estimated or that you got the quote too low etc they never do

[@kaganyaman2157]

very good

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks, Kagan

[@thetruthshallsetyoufreejoh8859]

well done to you buddy

[@RestoreIt]

Thank you, mate

[@stephencrozier396]

I think this job has been far harder than we the viewers can appreciate! That said the owner should be pleased with the finished car and what's been achieved within his budget. I myself have missed the regular content of this channel as its one of my favourite! Will there be more regular content now you are back on the BMW's?

[@XWA2203]

Nice built! But you put the steering wheel on the wrong side 😉 Greetings from the home country of Mercedes!

[@firemanjeffgg2440]

I know it took you longer than what you wanted but you did that Merc right.

[@RestoreIt]

Thanks Jeff! I appreciate it

[@larrysorenson4789]

A dark brown Wilton carpet set would really have set the interior apart from the herd.

[@shemmo]

i love your smiley tattoo

[@yousefissa5161]

great did