KPH speedometer

[AGT]

I am still trying to re-register my 230SL in France and require an attestation d'identification from MB in Paris. Before I can obtain this I will need to replace my MPH speedometer with one reading in KPH.

I have read Andres G's post "How hard is it to get a KMH Speedometer". What I was hoping to do was buy a new KMH faceplate (€137 from SLS) and have this fitted. The odometer will still read in miles but that's OK and actually provides a better link to the car's history if I ever sell it.

It looks to me as if the KMH and MPH speedometers have the same "scale" for want of a more scientific word. Due North on a KMH speedo is 110 KMH and the same position on a MPH speedo is 70MPH (which should be good enough for the gendarmes). Is this just wishful thinking on my part that the MPH to KMH switch is as simple as swopping the face plates?

Regards
Andrew
1966 230SL

[Larry & Norma]

Would I be correct in thinking that they would have to
be calibrated for different axle ratios?

[al_lieffring]

I thought I had an extra KPH dial, but when I looked at it, found out it is for a 220se coupe. (it has a 0 - 210kph scale)

It shouldn't be too difficult to changeout the the dial. I would make a reference mark on the magnet and the housing indicating where the needle points to 62mph, change the dial, then put the needle back on where it lines up to 100 kph.

[Garry]

Larry,

You are right, changing the axle ratio does change the speedo and they do need recalibration.  Some suggest an in line mechanical device that can be used to change the ratios for the speedo drive. 
I need one as not only did I change the axle I also fitted the 5 speed that had a huge effect on the reading such that I am now doing  60 mph and reading 42 mph.

When I eventually find a KPH speedo I hope to do the in line change.

Al, I gather it is quite simple to take the face off by carefully peeling back the surround of the gauge and then undoing the face plate?

Garry

[114015]

I am still trying to re-register my 230SL in France and require an attestation d'identification from MB in Paris. Before I can obtain this I will need to replace my MPH speedometer with one reading in KPH.

Hello Andrew,
Yes that is possible.
Pagodentreff.de member "memmo" offers these as sticker reproductions. Those are self-sticking and go on top of your original faceplate.
These are very reasonably priced.

He has currently one on ebay: http://www.ebay.com/itm/330634250168

However, you can also contact him personally via his email posted there.

You are right, a new face plate alone (or a sticker) does not need any recalibrating.
Alternatively you are going to hunt for a real Euro-speedo; however, those are not easy to come by and if so, they are expensive.
There is one on ebay (Germany) too.

IMHO - try it with the sticker.

Good luck!
Achim

[bowdie]

I used this sticker solution for the Hong Kong MOT test - worked well & cheap.
Chris.

[AGT]

All

Thank you for the advice.

Achim, I have bought a sticker from Mehmet who has also e-mailed me detailed fitting instructions with photographs. It looks as thought the sticker can be applied without removing the speedometer needle. Thank you for the introduction.

Regards
Andrew
1966 Mercedes 230SL
1976 Citroen 2CV
1989 Mercedes 420SL
2007 Mercedes S320CDI
2007 BMW M535d Touring