463 LHD to rhd
I have have been looking into the possibly of getting a late lhd 463 g500 converted into rhd format. It does sound as though it can be done all be bit long and expensive procedure ( Sounds like alterations to the chassis need to be made along with the obvious dash, steering adjustments etc.... )
I know this had been discussed in the past but after much searching am still not getting anywhere fast and therefore wondered if any of you maybe able to help point me in the right direction I would be greatly thankful
Many thanks
Chris - 07714 024926
Three points come to mind:
- The cost of insuring such a conversion might be an issue.
- Initially (in late 2009) Mercedes wanted to sell the G500 in the UK, they then switched to the G350/ 55 but as a special order the G500 was available. It might be useful to inquire whether this is still possible, it would give you an interesting price point.
- At the time, I regarded the G500 as superior to the G55 mainly due to its suspension. The G63 has blurred the line putting pressure on the second hand prices of used G55s. Therefore, an alternative to converting a G500 to RHD might be to convert the suspension of a RHD G55 to G63 specification. This is conceptually only, I have not driven a G63 nor have I looked into the specifics of such a conversion.
It is not worth the headache.
One of the biggest electrical hurdles you face is; depending on the model year is obtaining a RHD dash board and secondly the wiring loom for the same. Because the New generation Gee's which use Can/Bus wiring technology; this is not a cut, chop and extend type wiring which means it can not be done and if you are unable to get a RHD wiring loom.
Mechanically, there is a problem also in getting a crucial part for conversion on the steering system as that part is not available in the RHD unless it is bespokely made. The alternative is live with the vehicle lifting each time you turn the steering. This alone will would make the vehicle practically unsalable despite the expense gone into the conversion.
Mercedes Benz will not tackle such a conversion.
Looked at this twice in depth in the last year from a parts availability / cost angle
My advice is steer well clear of this project!!!
As Rakesh has stated as a RHD G500 was not produced in certain era's some parts are just not available.
Used parts are none existent
I have got the conversion price to circa £25-£30k
Even with a £10k premium for a RHD model, its just not worth it, if you have the 20-£25K to purchase a LHD model and the same to convert it, why not just go buy a later RHD 2010 on G350 Bluetec etc...or a cheaper G55AMG?
Aside from that the vehicle will be worth more like half of the original cost and maybe be virtually impossible to insure or sell.
Just my ten pence worth....
This is also not taking in to view that maybe one or two companies in the country that are not only able, but willing to undertake such a conversion, let alone give any warranty to the job or even be happy to say its fit for the road...
Gav
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That that you all very much for there replies. I agree with what you are saying, the only thing is I was hoping to be able to undertake it on a swb 500 cab and therefore not sure if any other options of getting a rhd one otherwise??
again many thanks
Chris