Pertronix module question

[Charles 230SL]

I did a routine 3000-mile oil change on my 230sl over the weekend.  Once complete, I started the car and just as I was about to back it down off the ramps, the engine abruptly died. I spun the starter a couple of times and got no fire – not even a sputter. After confirming fuel pressure was ok, I removed a plug and spun the starter, only to find I had no spark. To confirm, I pulled another plug and found that it too had no spark. Using my meter I found that I have 12vdc at the + primary side of the coil with the ignition switch on. The coil, cap and rotor are about 2 yrs old and look fine, so it appears I’ve got a bad Pertronix module.

Bud’s installed the Pertronix kit while they were restoring the car in Spring 2014 and it’s performed flawlessly ever since. just curious, anyone have an idea what life-expectancy is for one of these things? 

I’m just glad the car was in my garage when the module died. This kind of unexpected surprise will leave you stranded!  I intend to get a spare this time.

[Charles 230SL]

Before I ordered a new Pertronix system for my car I decided to give their Tech Support a call and make sure I have the correct part number. Tech Support told me I'd need Pertronix System #1867A.   

I noticed a number of members of this group are using Pertronix#1864LA and I'm wondering why they're using different systems? The distributor in my 230sl is a Bosch 0231-185-007 and I'm beginning to think that the previous owner installed a later distributor. 

[Jordan]

I have the 1864LA installed in mine.  I have whatever distributor is mentioned in the tech manual for a later 230SL (not at the car so can't look at the moment).  Remove the Pertonix and reinstall points and see what happens.  Pertronix units have been known to fail so always carry a set of points with you.

[Benz Dr.]

You should have the 051 which is still the most common unit on 113's.

[wayne R]

Hi Charles, just a little more help , i used my first Pertrnix  about 1992.and
over the years in many different makes used about 4 or 5 times,about twice they failed for  me,
but that was my fault, reason was Pertronix first ones were prone to fail if----You messed with ignition
or left key on while doing something on car while ignition left on,only for about 4to 6 minutes or so.
i found this out twice, one a buick another Cadillac.----these were pertronix 1.
Then about year 2000, they produced Pertronix  11, they were better did not fail like first one. could leave ignition on,etc.
and now there is pertronix  111, better still and for more performance, etc.
So get advice from Pertronix them selves ,not a suppyer, like others have said get a spare set of points and condensor
always handy,your distributor sounds a little later model, 0231185007 should have 1235522194 cap 1234322215 rotor
1237013083 points 1237330318 condensor if useing points.  i still use points on my old Pagoda.  regards.

[Charles 230SL]

thanks Wayne, I appreciate those part numbers (points, condenser, cap, rotor).  I've always been careful not to leave the key on - I'll certainly pay closer attention going forward. new Pertronix module will be here next week, meanwhile I'll look through my private collection (junk) and see if I've got a set of points and condenser.  thanks again,