Author Topic: Valve rotators  (Read 1297 times)

russelljones48

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Valve rotators
« on: April 10, 2024, 21:50:00 »
I'm having trouble understandng the necessity of the valve rotators on my "67 230..  It appears (from a Haynes book) that MB did not continue them on the 280 but that could be an error.  The majority of my research indicates that very few modern ICE's have them any more yet small airplane engines (Lycoming, Continental) appear to continue with them.  Opinions needed on leaving them off my rebuilt head.   I could upgrade the valves and springs to more modern tecnology more easily if valve rotators weren't required..     

Benz Dr.

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Re: Valve rotators
« Reply #1 on: April 11, 2024, 00:42:36 »
All three engine versions use them. They spin the valves which helps to keep the valve seat and face clean. Leave them in place.
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

russelljones48

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Re: Valve rotators
« Reply #2 on: April 11, 2024, 01:24:53 »
Thanks..  Never trust the Haynes manual  :-\

mdsalemi

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Re: Valve rotators
« Reply #3 on: April 11, 2024, 15:28:59 »
I'm having trouble understanding the necessity of the valve rotators on my '67 230...I could upgrade the valves and springs to more modern technology more easily if valve rotators weren't required...   

Hopefully you have been convinced by Dan Caron (Dr. Benz) not to change anything. But in the case where you think you have an idea for some improvement such as "more modern valves and springs" let me suggest you offer to purchase a bit of time on the phone with Mike Elias of Metric Motors. I would propose that nobody or no firm in the USA has more direct hands on experience with our three engines (along with a lot of others) than does Mike. They've been at this for decades, have seen about darn near everything come in their loading dock, and sent out thousands of engines. Along with that experience comes an unparalleled wealth of knowledge that is simply without equal.
Michael Salemi
Davidson, North Carolina (Charlotte Area) USA
1969 280SL (USA-Spec)
Signal Red 568G w/Black Leather (Restored)
2023 Ford Maverick Lariat Hybrid "Area 51"
2023 Ford Escape Hybrid
2024 Ford Mustang Mach Ex PEV

russelljones48

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Re: Valve rotators
« Reply #4 on: April 11, 2024, 20:40:28 »
Is this the Metric Motors in Canoga Park Ca.? 

mdsalemi

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Re: Valve rotators
« Reply #5 on: April 12, 2024, 09:13:45 »
Is this the Metric Motors in Canoga Park Ca.?

The one and only. Yes.
https://mercedesengines.net/
« Last Edit: April 12, 2024, 11:41:55 by mdsalemi »
Michael Salemi
Davidson, North Carolina (Charlotte Area) USA
1969 280SL (USA-Spec)
Signal Red 568G w/Black Leather (Restored)
2023 Ford Maverick Lariat Hybrid "Area 51"
2023 Ford Escape Hybrid
2024 Ford Mustang Mach Ex PEV