67 230 starting issue

[n/a]

Just bought this 67 230 a while ago and I figured I would go ahead and replace the plugs, wires, and cap.  Not wanting to start, just turns over.  Before I changed these, it took forever to get started.  Can someone please tell me what the cylinder order is, but I know that the firing order is 153624.  Is that for the distributor or cylinder arrangement cuz I might have something mixed up.  I bought this car for my dad *who is in iraq right now* and I just want to get it running and starting fine.  I'm mechanically inclined, but for this stuff to not be labeled and no service manual...i'm a lil stumped. Any help would be appreciated. Thanx, Pat

[ja17]

Hellow Pat,
The plug wires are positioned around the distributor cap in a clockwise direction 153624 as you mentioned. Number one spark plug wire should be above the "slash mark" on the rim of the distributor. The distributor cap must be off to see the slash mark.

Before getting into the complicated stuff,  try replacing the ignition points and fuel filter to help starting.

Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio

[rwmastel]

Pat,

To elaborate on what Joe said, working around the distributor:

#1 on distributor goes to #1 cylinder (nearest radiator)
#2 on distributor goes to #5 cylinder
#3 on distributor goes to #3 cylinder
#4 on distributor goes to #6 cylinder (nearest windshield)
#5 on distributor goes to #2 cylinder
#6 on distributor goes to #4 cylinder

Rodd
Powell, Ohio, USA
1966 230SL, Euro, Auto, Leather, both  tops
1994 E420

[n/a]

Sounds good.  What's involved in replacing the points and where is the filter located? I would guess it would be in the engine bay somewhere.  Will look into all of that tho.  Another thing is when the battery is connected, a red GL light turns on *constantly is the problem* and when i attempt to start it it goes to ST *i think*.  What is making that GL light stay on cuz I have to keep disconnectin the battery to keep it from draining.  Thanx for all the help guys, Patrick

[ja17]

Hello Pat,
The fuel filter is in the aluminum canister hanging from the left engine support. A 13mm bolt (14mm on early cars)is loosened from the top, then the canister and filter drops from the bottom. It can be a messy job. Having another set of hands helps re-installation a lot. Be sure you get the right filter before starting the job. I strongly suggest that you use a good name brand fuel filter. These injection systems are expensive to repair don't scrimp on the fuel filter. Some good brands with part numbers are Knecht # EK402, Mann #720, and Hengst #E5KP. The Mercedes part number is # 000 470 0092.

Ignition points may be an unfamiliar item for younger generations. Replacement is fairly simple. Loosen the 7mm bolt holding the forked wire end of the points and remove the slotted screw which fastens the points down in the distributor. The new points must be installed so that there is a .012" to .016" gap when the rubbing block on the points is resting on the high point of the cam in the distributor. Final adjustment with a dwell meter is best although not absolutely necessary. When re-tightening the 7mm bolt be careful that nothing grounds out against the distributor breaker plate or you will not get any spark. Use a bit of grease on the distributor cam. We can supply some photos and more help if needed.

It sounds like you may have a bad diode in the alternator. These can be easily repaired by your local automotive electrical shop.



Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio

[JimVillers]

Pat .... I think that you may have jumped to conclusions concerning you starting difficulity.  I would check out your cold start system before digging too far into the ignition or fuel filter.  Do a search on "cold start relay"; there has been a number of good threads on hard starting.

Jim Villers
190SL, 230SL 5-Speed, 190E 2.3-16 Kompressor