Mercedes-Benz 560SEL, W126
The wood trim of these cars hides several pitfalls, although it may appear to be relatively simple.
First of all, most of the pieces are made with a pressed aluminum sheet on which has been glued some beech veneers and then, finally, the precious wood. Usually the aluminum core separates completely from the wood. In this case, what remains is very unstable, because the alluminum is extremely ductile and often the ‘sandwich wood panel’ is deformed.
Like the 107, were used switches and controls flush-fitted with the wood. When replacing the veneers, all the holes must be done again. A few tenths of a millimeter are enough to transform a great work in a huge disappointment, both aesthetically and functionally.