Drivers seat arm rest w/flip top

[500AMM]

Hi.

Here in Europe is the drivers seat armrest, with flip top, a bit rare to find.

Does anyone have a OEM part number on this?


-arnt-

 

[gsxr]

I don't have a part number handy, but the cost new is outrageous. However you can get them used, in good condition, for roughly $100-$200 USD or so. I think new they are over $1k but I haven't checked in a while...

 

[500AMM]

I don't have a part number handy, but the cost new is outrageous. However you can get them used, in good condition, for roughly $100-$200 USD or so. I think new they are over $1k but I haven't checked in a while...

Thanks, Dave.

Yes, that was quite expensive. I thought I should upgrade both cars with that. It's not any special need for it, just nice to have. I probably find some used, just need to search around.

-arnt-

 

[diaconovic]

pn : A124 970 15 31 ( and the color code for example 9A84 for black leather ...)

Look like you can find some used one below 200euros here:
http://www.motoso.de/quicksearch.htm;js ... 1249701531

 

[500AMM]

Hello.

It took some time to find an armrest with flip top, but finally it is in house. And guess where it showed up?? 80 kilometers away from me, the world can be so small sometimes - Ha Ha
The armrest is even brand new, but sold privat as secondhand. It will go into my SuperMerc.

Cheers
-arnt-

 

[sheward]

Nice find! I am always on the lookout for a nice one of these. I would say you found a needle in a haystack.

Drew

 

[500AMM]

Nice find! I am always on the lookout for a nice one of these. I would say you found a needle in a haystack.

Drew

Your'e right, it is really difficult to find these for sale, and normally never here in Norway! The seller had two of them, but he didn't want the new one because the leather look didn't mach so good with the wear on the seats in the car. And he has a point there, because this type armrest seem to have a rougher surface compared to a standard armrest. It is easy to see the difference by looking underneath a standard armrest, which normally is as new. (see pics from both my cars).

I will keep my eyes open for the original MB-phone too, but I'm not going to install it - just want to have it complete.

Cheers
-arnt-

 

[Rudy]

changed mine from stock w/o flip top to flip top
but one shock does not work at all
any suggestion what to do?
inject oil?

 

[500AMM]

changed mine from stock w/o flip top to flip top
but one shock does not work at all
any suggestion what to do?
inject oil?

Hi Rudy.

If I understand you correctly, you mean the small shock between the two limiter straps? Since I've never had this type of armrest before I'm not familiar with the problem. But adding thin oil with some silicon could help, but then without any solvents which may harm the rubber inserts over time.

-arnt-

 

[DerFuror]

The limiting straps for Armrest/Telephone Console Cover are 124 973 02 26. A quantity of 2 are required. I recently replaced my broken straps with new.

The small shock for Armrest/Telephone Console Cover is a Stabilus Lift-o-Mat 977934 0080N Gas Spring.

This item does not appear to be listed separately in North American (NA) EPC. This armrest configuration may have only been offered in the NA market. I have been seeking a replacement gas spring & have been informed one must buy a used armrest assembly in order to get the gas spring (and hope that it works properly). I kept hope alive that there must be a way to obtain just the replacement gas spring itself (if it still existed), but it appears Stabilus no longer makes a readily-available Lift-o-Mat gas spring of this size anymore . And after several Sales & Service telephone conversations, I’ve exhausted my attempts in finding an existing cross reference or suitable substitute within Stabilus NA or any of its North American competitors. The Sales Rep noted this gas spring may have been produced in limited quantities only for MBNA applications.

The smallest readily-available gas spring (see attached file) is still several millimeters larger in all dimensions than the 977934 0080N (for example: 6mm vs 4mm rod dia; 15mm vs 12mm piston dia), thereby an incompatible fit within the confines of the armrest design.

CarpartsWholesale sells a Stabilus Console Lift Strut SG403043 for $33.77. Although claimed to fit the 500E, it is too large. Also, there is a Company in Britain & NJ USA, http://www.plccenter.com/sm/Stabilus.html , that rebuilds gas springs, but I have not inquired yet. Has anyone had any success in sourcing a new replacement of this individual part? I'm sure my 500E gas spring isn't the only one that could use a dose of industrial Viagra to “get it UP!”

Stabilus GmbH is headquartered in Koblenz Germany. Possibly one of our European 500Espot members could verify if this part is available through the European market? Please let us know .

Happy Hunting!

 

[500AMM]

Hello "Der Furor".

I hope you don't have the same temper as your pseudonym indicates.

Thanks for great info! I gladly contribute to source a solution for this too. By the way, one of the limiting straps on my armrest has already been bent and will breake soon or later, so a replacmenet part is needed.

Regards
-arnt-

 

[DerFuror]

To avoid bending/breaking the straps, verify that the straps are or have been inserted in the proper orientation. The rounded end seats into the base of the armrest with the flat portion of this rounded end face down (see picture). You will hear an audible "click" sound when it seats into position. Lubricating this area with graphite may also help prolong its longevity.

BTW, -arnt-, Thank you for the offer . Also, I assure you the "fury" only resides within the combustion chambers of the M119 powerplant & the psyche of those :x it crushes on the motorways!

 

[Rudy]

Hi Arnt,
yeah the small shock. Thanks for the info!!
The straps i have done - both!
But still - when closing the top drops to fast and loud, so will get me the shock for sure!

Thanks again,
Rudy

 

[500AMM]

Hello.

I contacted Stabilus in Germany about the Lift-o-Mat gas spring 977934 0080N. Yesterday I got a reply from the Norwegian wholesaler, Hella Norway. This gas spring is discontinued from Stabilus, however, they are able to take special orders! The price for one single item is 95 dollars + VAT here in Norway. Norwegian prices incl. VAT are normally almost twice as else in the world, so lets anticipate it could be USD65 in the US. I have asked the wholesaler to ask Stabilus about a minimum quantity and pricing based on that.

Not all of us 500-owners do have this armrest, but it seems that many wants one, so the numbers may increase over the comming years. When the arm rests are aging the tiny Stabilus will lose the pre-set pressure. Even mine which is brand new is weak allready, probably due to long time storage in locked position, leaving the Stabilus in compressed position. So it is likely that most secondhand armrests will need a new Stabilus. I'll revert as soon as I get more news.

Cheers
-arnt-

 

[Rudy]

yeah lets order some in the US and have them shipped to Europe.
In need of one badly here!

Rudy

 

[500AMM]

Updates:
Today I received a final answer from Stabilus GmbH in Koblenz. This tiny 977934 0080N gass spring was ony delivered to the arm rest to Mercedes W124 cars. Since the production back in the 90's they have never had any request for them again. If they shall do a small production run, the minimum number would be about 200 items a year. Prior to that they have to see some needs comming up to secure the sale. Until that they only do one piece production in their sample department.

The gas springs in the arm rests around is aging now, and I guess most of them needs to be replaced. I'm sure the needs out there is more than 200 items, but how is it possible to collect a reliable number and bring back to Stabilus?

An other thing is how big is this problem actually? Is it possible to use the option mentioned here, Stabilus SG403043, which is a bit too big. Maybe some minor mods can be done on the console to get it fit.

-arnt-

 

[gsxr]

Arnt,

Did you get any formal pricing for 1-off builds (done in their "sample department"), compared to pricing for a production run of 200 or more? I think demand will vary considerably based on pricing. I wouldn't mind replacing the shock but if it's $75-$100 each, I can live with the old one. It's a shame MB never had a spare part number for these, as they could easily purchase & stock 200+...

 

[gerryvz]

One way to prompt production could be to work with MB Classic Center in Germany to request a production run. Now that the 124 is officially a "Young Classic" under their purview, they are responsible for commissioning production runs for spare parts. If you'd like, I can work with one of my contacts there in Germany to check out the feasibility of doing this. let me know.

Cheers,
Gerry

 

[500AMM]

Stabilus didn't give any price for a 200 pcs/year production, the only price I got was from the Norwegian vendor. Here in Norway I have to pay approx.135 dollars incl. VAT, handling, shipping, so this have to go a bit down on my priority list. However, if I can get it abroad to a lower price I am interested. (I highlighted this issue on one of the three Norwegian MB-clubs, but it was no reaction. That is simply because not many have this armrest here.)

I think this issue is a future warning regarding reduced availability on special parts to our cars. Gerry - it would be great if you could try your contacts in Germany.


-arnt-

 

[gerryvz]

OK. I woudl think that some vendor somewhere would make a replacement/equivalent/substitute part. Need to keep looking to see what could work...

I will send a note over to Fellbach.

Cheers,
Gerry

 

[DerFuror]

Is it possible to use the option mentioned here, Stabilus SG403043, which is a bit too big. Maybe some minor mods can be done on the console to get it fit.

-arnt-

Last year I checked to see if the Stabilus SG403043 would fit the intended location. It will not. All physical dimesions of the SG403043 are several millimeters larger than the OE gas spring.

Can the console components be modified? Sure, but even with surgical precision & nerves of steel to accomplish the following tasks, I am not convinced the lid will close. For instance,
- 1.5mm of material must be removed from the perimeter of the cutout to accomdate the larger piston body (pic#1).
- Material must be removed from the rod slot to accomodate the SG403043's larger piston rod & connector (pic#2 solid line).
- Removing material from the gas spring end connectors may be required (& possibly redesigning the linking points themselves).
- Larger diameter linking pins or bushings are required.
- Material from the underside of the armrest lid would also have to be removed to accomodate the larger piston diameter (pic#2 dotted line).
.

IMO there is too high a risk of ruining the components that house the gas spring, or ending up with a result that is not aesthetically pleasing (just one slip of the Dremel tool! ) The components are molded to fit the OE spring's dimensions. I decided against messing with mine.

I'll inquire on the cost to rebuild the existing gas spring while gerryvz contacts Fellbach regarding the other options.

 

[DerFuror]

Re: Gas Spring Rebuild Option

...there is a Company in Britain & NJ USA, http://www.plccenter.com/sm/Stabilus.html , that rebuilds gas springs,

I just spoke to Daniel Tinsley, Sales Coordinator for Radwell International, Inc. (PlcCenter) regarding the ability to rebuild the gas spring. The part number did not appear on their system, but I explained the background & gave him some dimensional info on the part.

He was optimistic regarding the ability to rebuild the part. Pardon my brashness, but to improve the odds of the rebuild possibility, I stated I represented a Mercedes car club with a potential of 100 rebuilds (& maybe more).

He is emailing me some quote documents. I will update this thread once I get the cost figures. Think positive!

 

[DerFuror]

One way to prompt production could be to work with MB Classic Center in Germany to request a production run. Now that the 124 is officially a "Young Classic" under their purview, they are responsible for commissioning production runs for spare parts. If you'd like, I can work with one of my contacts there in Germany to check out the feasibility of doing this. let me know.

Cheers,
Gerry

Sorry folks, but we are sh*t out of luck regarding the rebuild possibility . PlcCenter can only rebuild currently stocked items (the replacement parts for our gas spring do not exist :x ). A check with vendors & the Company's sourcing database confirmed no one currently offers or has inventory of a gas spring of the size we require (as stated previously, the smallest available has 6mm rod & 15mm body). Cross this option off our list.

Requesting a production run appears the only remaining possibility. Gerry, the ball is in your court.

 

[DerFuror]

Re: center console flip top arm rest straps

The limiting straps for Armrest/Telephone Console Cover are p/n 124 973 02 26. A quantity of 2 are required.

Insert new strap (as pictured) with flat side of rounded end down. Snap into position.

 

[Rudy]

Re: center console flip top arm rest straps

but we still need the shock!!

 

[500AMM]

Re: center console flip top arm rest straps

Hi.

Today I sent an E-mail to MB Classic Center in Germany, giving a thorough explanation of the problem with the availability of that gas spring. Let's hope they can use their influence on Stabilus and/or Mercedes-Benz to run a reproduction.

-arnt-

 

[gerryvz]

Good luck. I was advised they would look into it, but I haven't heard anything back from my contacts.

Perhaps you'll have better results ;-)

Cheers,
Gerry

 

[500AMM]

Stabilus didn't give any price for a 200 pcs/year production, the only price I got was from the Norwegian vendor. Here in Norway I have to pay approx.135 dollars incl. VAT, handling, shipping,........ I think this issue is a future warning regarding reduced availability on special parts to our cars. Gerry - it would be great if you could try your contacts in Germany.


-arnt-

Hi.

This is an attempt to push either Mercedes-Benz or Stabilus to do a production run and get the gas spring available in stock again. The more requests they get - the better is the chance. However, as mentioned in my previous posting, it is still possible to order one item only, but the price is obviously thereafter.

-arnt-

 

[jano]

On the topic of arm rests here: before I take apart the seat, can that arm rest be pointed down a bit? It points at too steep an angle upward for me (I get used to it, but would be nice to point it down a bit more).

 

[ivanned]

Re: center console flip top arm rest straps

Hi everyone I wound something that maybe of interest. I have inquired a way to get some from the manufacturer and I am waiting for an answer. Here is a link.

http://www.supersen.com/style/frame...36048&content_set=color_2&rid=21603&id=102554

 

[DerFuror]

Re: center console flip top arm rest straps

Nice find! It appears that K030109-L1AM4-0080N is the replacement piston our cars need.

 

[ivanned]

Thanks so much for the specs. I have no way of checking them now. The car is in the shop getting the timing chain replaced. Could you confirm the dimensions just in case? So we need stroke length 30mm and extended length 109 mm, and 80N.

Number should be: K030109-L1AM4-080N

I think they will have a zero less in the last set of number so I thought I'd check.
I'll see how many they will make me order and I'll be posting soon hopefully.

 

[PDX500E]

Re: center console flip top arm rest straps

I noticed this thread regarding armrest - I know I am off topic but I am hoping someone can help me. I found a 500e in nice condition - but the armrest has fallen off the drivers seat.....there is a wire running from the seat to the armrest. .... How do you reattach the armrest to seat frame? I have attached some pics... Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[gsxr]

Looks like the armrest hinge is broken. You'll need to remove the other part (under the plastic cover on the seat) and see if you can repair it...

 

[500AMM]

Re: center console flip top arm rest straps

Hi everyone I wound something that maybe of interest. I have inquired a way to get some from the manufacturer and I am waiting for an answer. Here is a link.

http://www.supersen.com/style/frame...36048&content_set=color_2&rid=21603&id=102554

Hello Ivanned.

That was a great find!
Have you got any price on it?

-arnt-

 

[Rudy]

any update on the piston?

 

[ivanned]

I got a response from the company. I asked them to send me some and still waiting for a response : here's the last email:

[FONT=新細明體]DEAR IVAN,[/FONT]
[FONT=新細明體] [/FONT]
[FONT=新細明體]PLEASE SEND US YOUR COMPANY INFORMATION[/FONT]
[FONT=新細明體]AND OUR ITEM NO. WE WILL OFFER YOU SOON[/FONT]
[FONT=新細明體] [/FONT]
[FONT=新細明體]REGARDS[/FONT]
[FONT=新細明體]Peter Liu
Super Sheng Enterprise Co., Ltd.
Taiwan Anken Corporation
6, Lane 151, Minsheng St., Sanhsia Town,
Taipei Hsien, Taiwan 23741
Tel: +886 2 26743021
Fax: +886 2 26722009
Email: supersen@ms14.hinet.net
http://www.supersen.com
http://www.supersen.com.tw

I have sent them the specs I got from derfuror and lets see what happens. I'll keep you guys informed.[/FONT]

 

[ivanned]

Update:

The company sent me a quote:

30 USD for 2

3800 USD for 1000

I will order two and see if they work and let you guys know

-ivan

 

[gerryvz]

Sweet Ivan! Definitely let us know. That's not a bad price really, even at $15 apiece.

 

[DerFuror]

Re: Gas Spring

Update:

The company sent me a quote:

Good work, Ivan. This is exciting news! Hopefully all of our combined perseverance will result in the direct-fit quality replacement part our cars need.

Considering nearly every 124.036 needs one of these parts (and an owner will most likely buy two), what a blown opportunity for Stabilus, Mercedes, et al for not providing replacements, or not providing them at a reasonable price. ig:

Looking forward to your report on this replacement part.

 

[Rudy]

good job!!

 

[bgreene30]

OK. I woudl think that some vendor somewhere would make a replacement/equivalent/substitute part. Need to keep looking to see what could work...

I will send a note over to Fellbach.

Cheers,
Gerry

Any more word on this?

What about he bloody plastic hinges that are always busted?

Cheers!
God I Love this Car!!
Bob

 

[ivanned]

Got them!! Now the problem is would they fit. I am in NY with a new job and my car is in Cali for another couple of months. This will I hope I will have a chance to install it soon. They cost me 40 bucks a piece after all expences. I actually can't wait to do it!!! I really hope this will be the end of that search for all of our sakes

 

[ivanned]

OK got it installed and it works beautifully. It required two minor modifications: the bottom attachment end did not fit in the thin bottom attachment slot, so I had to thin the piston attachment; and removing less than 1mm of a minuscule plastic lip from the same bottom attachment slot. Everything else was perfect. Putting back the armrest together could be a little tricky since the piston now has all the pressure you need

I will post the procedure with pics and I will try to see what I can do about importing a few more of there for everyone here.

 

[gerryvz]

NEEEEED GROUP BUY !!!

 

[ivanned]

Here are the parts compared with pics. Both are same total length, diameter and strength, and attachment hole size. The ends of the new one can be unscrewed, but if you want to modify them to fit just adjust them without removing the ends. You will see the end of the original is flat with the piston rod and it is welded to it instead of screwed. Both ends of the new one can be unscrewed. They look like a hat (see the last pic). The sides of that "hat" need to be removed. I am a dentist and I used a dental handpiece, it took me about 5 minutes to do it. That made the new one look flush with the piston rod. I was concerned the screw threads will become exposed but they don't if you get it perfectly flush with the top of the "hat."

Once this is done, the end will fit perfectly at the designated mounting slot inside the armrest with a very very minor modification of the slot itself. This slot has two edges created on both sides to hold the original part in place because it was too thin for the slot to begin with. The new part fits the slot perfectly if the edges are adjusted only by 0.5 mm each. This will almost eliminate the edges and give you perfect space for the fit. I will post more pics of the procedure later, but we have a perfect. part now. If we can get a sizable group order going I can definitely try to contact the manufacturer and hopefully import some more.

 

[gerryvz]

I would be up for two sets of two of them myself. Need to post approximate costs including shipping to folks in the US.

 

[DerFuror]

Count me in for two pieces.

 

[jano]

If not used and just kept stored, will it go bad?

 

[ivanned]

Didn't someone said they bought a whole armrest and the shock died in a few months because it was made so long ago? I guess if you have it sit for 20 years if probably will go bad, but I doubt it will happen over just a few years.

I'll try to get an estimate and I will see if I have to pay import taxes and stuff like that. In the mean time I will keep track for how many people will want it.