Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => General Discussion => Topic started by: jimpagoda on March 09, 2025, 00:08:13

Title: Help with timing new distributor
Post by: jimpagoda on March 09, 2025, 00:08:13
I was trying to start my 1965 230 sl
Seems the distributor is way off from specs need help for timing
Thanks in advance
Title: Re: Help with timing new distributor
Post by: Cees Klumper on March 09, 2025, 02:15:36
Off the top of my head and I could be off here - there's a technique that involves placing the engine at top dead center (as marked on the flywheel), then hooking up a test light to one of the distributor wires (I believe the signal wire to the coil) and rotating the ignition to where the light just turns on - this would be called 'static timing'. This should allow you to start the engine and then, with a timing light, set it to the proper spec ("dynamic timing"). But as I said, I am just going off memory, it's been some years since I had to do this on one of my cars.
I would check the technical manual, to which you have access and, if it's not described there, I would look in the Haynes manual for our cars, that is sure to contain a relevant procedure.
Title: Re: Help with timing new distributor
Post by: ja17 on March 09, 2025, 04:08:15
What's the history? Was it running before and just won't start now?
Title: Re: Help with timing new distributor
Post by: LindesayOne on March 09, 2025, 20:01:37
Perhaps too much information, however, if you want a detailed description of the hows and whys of timing your Pagoda, I highly recommend this video.
(But, as a novice, I'd be interested in knowing how those more knowledgeable might assess this video.)
Title: Re: Help with timing new distributor
Post by: jimpagoda on March 09, 2025, 20:20:29
Thank you all I appreciate all your feedback
Title: Re: Help with timing new distributor
Post by: Cees Klumper on March 10, 2025, 04:14:49
@ LindesayOne the guy that is Problem Solver Garage is very sharp, I really like his videos.
Title: Re: Help with timing new distributor
Post by: jimpagoda on March 11, 2025, 00:53:38
Thank you all found z problem, distributor wasn’t turning , unfortunately the intermediate shaft gear keyway is broken 😔