How to Restore a Mercedes 300 SD

Instructions
1. Purchase magazines and handbooks detailing the restoration process for Mercedes vehicles. The more knowledge you can acquire about restoring a Mercedes, the easier it will be to successfully finish this task.
2. Secure a clean work area large enough for a disassembled Mercedes 300SD, equipment, storage containers and additional lighting. Prevent misplacing or losing any parts by securing a tarp to the floor to place parts and components upon. Set up labeled containers for smaller parts.
3. Remove the trunk lid, hood, bumpers, front grill, and doors. Disconnect the head and tail lights. Use a jack to raise your Mercedes, then secure with jack stands. Remove the wheels. If any parts have excessive rust, use grease and a rubber mallet to help remove them. Remove the axles. Disconnect and hoist the engine and transmission out of the Mercedes.
4. Disassemble the interior, removing the parts and components of your Mercedes' console and the interior trim. Remove the seats and use a Mercedes specific re-upholstery kit to restore them. Detach the front and rear fenders.
5. Survey all removed components, cleaning and restoring the viable and replacing the damaged ones. Obtain replacement parts through Mercedes authorized dealers.
6. Examine the main body, the frame, hood, fenders, doors and floorboards for any damage, including scratches, holes and rust. Repair by performing patchwork with a MIG welder, soldering metal to the damage. Ensure that the body of the Mercedes is straight and smooth. If necessary, order replacement doors, fenders and hoods.
7. Install the fenders, then sand the exterior. When the panels of the 300SD are aligned, with the metal being straight and smooth, apply a primer. After this has dried completely, paint the exterior of the Mercedes.
8. Restore power components such as the engine, transmission, radiator, alternator, and carburetor separately. Check the drive shaft, starter, axles and brake systems, replacing parts as necessary. Use a hoist to return the engine's components back into the vehicle, then install properly.
9. Ensure the viability of all electrical components. Rewire the headlights and taillights, then install the brake system beneath the 300SD. Attach new or restored front and rear bumpers, then install the windshield, mirrors and windows. Re-chrome any damaged trim. Attach new wheels, remove the jack stands and lower the Mercedes to the ground.
10. Install the interior, starting with the recently re-upholstered seats and carpeting. Install the door panels, handles, console and its controls. Ensure that everything is in working order, then test drive your Mercedes 300SD.