Setting the valve clearances

[Cees Klumper]

Today I set the valve clearances for the first time (ever) on my 280 SL's rebuilt engine (after running-in for 600 miles / 1000 km's). The first one (and most of the other ones as it turned out) was impossible to adjust with just a spanner. Too tight and not enough clearance to really be able to apply enough force. I recalled an old post from Dan Caron where he said to remove the rocker, so as to be able to use a (17 mm) socket. The only tough part is to depress the valve cap sufficently to be able to remove the rocker. Joe Alexander made a very effective tool for that, but I don't have it   . With some 'McGyver handywork' I managed to depress all valves that needed it (about 10 of the 12) and was able to properly set the clearances. Most were a bit too tight. When I refit the spark plugs, sure enough I swapped nos 5 and 6 - the engine did start, but ran pretty rough (understandably). After getting this sorted, the engine ran (and runs) like a charm.

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic

[Tom]

As you are probably aware, there is a special socket to allow the adjustment of the valves without removing the rocker arms.  Hazet makes this, as well as Stahlwille.  See the photo as follows:

http://www.samstagsales.com/images/sw3011-17.jpg

Best,

Tom



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1971 280sl Tunis Beige Metallic (restored & enhanced)
1971 280sl Tobacco Brown (low mileage stock)
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[Cees Klumper]

Oh dear. I have this crowfoot socket Tom! I forgot that it's really for this purpose, all I've used it for since I got it is to loosen/tighten the fuel injector lines (which it also handles). Thanks!

Although I wonder whether it would have enabled me to turn some of these adjuster nuts - even with a 1/2 inch drive + socket, two or three took a LOT of effort to move.

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic

[ja17]

Hello Cees,
The special tool makes a big difference. It is wider than a normal spanner (wrench) so it does not slip! Once you start slipping on these adjusters they  tend to continue sliping because they get slightly rounded.

Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio

[Naj ✝︎]

Cees,
You didn't say if you retorqued the head when you did this job.
Did you??
naj

65 230SL
68 280SL

[Cees Klumper]

Naj - I retorqued the head a short time (about 700 miles) ago, so I did not do it again this time. Should I have?

Cees Klumper in Amsterdam
'69 white 280 SL automatic

[Naj ✝︎]

No, Cees,
I think its okay if it was already done with over 500 miles.
To be sure we will wait for the experts to comment.
naj

65 230SL
68 280SL