This past meet up with the Pagodas & Beer guys in Rancho Santa Fe was pretty incredible. I learned so much practical information about my 230SL from various conversations, but mostly from the opportunity to "wrench" on my engine under the expert supervision of the group. We adjusted the valves in the field and the guys were super patient and supportive.
I created a fun and brief Follow-Up Quiz to help cement the lessons and info learned; Please let me know if I got the information right;
PAGODAS & BEER FOLLOW UP QUIZ
1. The 3 bolts on top of the valve cover have a nut size of;
a) 13/15"
b) 13 mm.
c) Lucky number 7
d) None of the above
2. The valve cover most easily comes off by first lifting the end closest to the;
a) firewall
b) radiator
c) beer
d) nearest mechanic
3. Optimal control of a click torque wrench is be achieved by;
a) buying the most expensive wrench available.
b) borrowing the most expensive wrench possible.
c) asking the strongest person you know.
d) placing one hand on top of the drive extension to make sure the extension remains vertical (perpendicular) to the click torque wrench.
4. If the ballpin adjuster with hex nut (valve) is difficult to loosen,
a) the cylinder is likely stuck in an open position.
b) there will be minimal to no play in the rocker arm.
c) you'll need optimal control of a torque wrench to loosen and adjust.
d) All of the above.
5. The recommended thickness for oil for a Pagoda engine is;
a) 25/45
b) 20W/50
c) Lucky number 7
d) "Nein"
6. True or false? If no adapter fitting is provided in a fuel flow test kit, it is perfectly acceptable to secure the test tube with a hose clamp.
7. The correct placement on the front windshield for the snowflake / coolant sticker is the;
a) driver side
b) passenger side
c) ask Mr. Fatman
d) decline to state, to avoid contentious debate.
8. Early model 230SL Pagodas are characterized by;
a) a side slanted spare wheel nestled into the trunk.
b) a production number less than 8,376 (sum of 230SL's produced between 1963 and 1964)
c) a straight (horizontal) ridge at the top of the firewall.
d) unsure, ask John.
9. Feeler gauges are thin metal strips of varying thickness used to measure;
a) the ambient engine operating temperature.
b) gap widths between two objects that are close together.
c) spaces where a caliper or tape measure would not be able to fit.
d) both (b) and (c)
10. True or false? The total number of 230SL Pagodas produced between 1963 and 1967 is 19,831.
11. True or false? In 1967 only 185 230SL were produced.
12. How do spell the Pagoda World editor’s first name?
a) John
b) Jon
c) Mephistopheles
d) Jawn
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