Hi everybody
My name is Kay-Michael from Costa Rica and I am new to your group. Thanks for your welcome. I have a 1966 230 SL which I bought (almost new) in 1973 in Guatemala and brought to Costa Rica in 1975 when my company transferred me. During the 80's I made several trips between Costa Rica and Guatemala, enjoying my car very much. Lately , perhaps to old age, terrible roads and worse drivers I have not used it as I should. Several month ago I took the car for a spin, it started without problems but after about 30 minutes the car stalled with a terrifying noise at the front end which lasted only a few seconds. Checking almost everything I finally got to the IP which was complete seized up, from the check valves to pistons, due to lack of use, bad fuel and perhaps old octane booster additive which I had been using. I am following the recommended procedures and will patiently apply the penetrating oil for the next 8-15 days and then try to persuade the pistons to move. I am sure these procedures explained by several of your members will do the job. The only thing I still have to figure out : what caused the terrible noise. The camshaft seems to be ok, all pump elements are in the upward position and the camshaft is working freely without touching the bottom of the followers. I still have to check the condition of the followers,could the noise have resulted from the seizure of the check valves, pistons etc. causing the camshaft to bang against the bottom of the pump elements? Thank you for any advice / hints / theories you could provide.
