Dean Laumbach of Like New Auto Detailing of the New York/ New Jersey area has a reputation for his attention to detail, quality workmanship, and thorough finesse jobs. So, this summer when he was browsing the pixelated aisles of eBay's car auction house and came across an intriguing silver 1978 Mercedes 450 SL convertible with the astonishingly low mileage of 73K, his trained eye knew that this needed to be looked into immediately.

Through the photos provided, he was able to see that the car had been carefully and lovingly attended to for many years, but then for unknown reasons had been left outside to endure the harsh forces of nature and neglect. Even through all these challenges the wood was clear, bright and tawny, there was no clear coat failure and the top side of the chrome was still fresh.

Right away he sent a competent and capable friend who lends him a helping hand and a critical eye on location to do a proper inspection.

And, what an inspection he did. Searching every inch of the Mercedes 450 SL, giving Dean a running commentary via a lengthy cell phone call. After careful consideration the Mercedes received the seal of approval.

She ran like a top.

When the papers were signed and his new find rolled on in, it was time to push up his sleeves and get down to business; once the rodent who had taken up residence in the filter cap had been removed, that is.

Every part of the vehicle then underwent some serious T.L.C.

The dashboard was refreshed. The excess moisture was removed and, of course, with Dean's ten years of detailing expertise all the interior and exterior surfaces received spa-like treatments to restore the beauty of its youth.

One area that received particular attention was the engine. All the years, weather, and the rodent no doubt, had taken a toll on its machined heart.

A full overhaul ensued beginning with degreasing and a steam cleaning pressure wash. Next up was polishing all of the aluminum and chrome to its original mirror like finish. Then the removal of rust followed by a quality rust encapsulator by Eastwood; as were all the other engine detailing products that were used here.

After carefully taping off all of the labels he began to repaint each individual engine part with extreme attention to the details. Under practiced hands the process took approximately seven hours to bring the engine back to factory and ready for the showroom.

Dean really enjoyed working on this Mercedes 450 SL as he always does with his other restorations. Each vehicle that he chooses to work with is unique, with its own challenges, successes and surprises. He looks forward to the next little gem in his future as he and his friends search near and far for that special diamond in the rough. Ready to be cut and polished , properly prepared to be added to that jewel box where the treasure sparkles, shines, and purrs.

By Arielle Connery

Arielle Connery repairs and restores the interiors of classic and high end vehicles, in her family owned business. She also is an artist and a published poet. Over the past two years Arielle has been focusing on her writing. Expanding her repertoire to include press releases, articles, ghostwriting,editing,etc.

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