odd problem, need advise

[tbarrie]

I just recently got my 66 230sl running again after some electrical problems (thanks to everyone who offered help) and after a new voltage regulator, spark plugs, alternator and battery I decided to try a fix an age old oil leak with a new valve cover gasket.  After putting the new one on a new problem has appeared- when 1st started the revs jump to 3k the the motor dies, after restarting it had a hell of a time idling and I can hear what sounds like the butterfly in the intake being forced open and slamming shut.  I have been told that I could be from reversion- a valve being force open on the compression stroke and gasses being forced through the system backwards towards the intake, others have suggested a timing problem of debris on a valve.  I am going to adjust the valves this weekend and hopefully the timing as well, a gentleman that I meet through the site lives close enough that he is willing to come walk me through the process.  I am wondering if anyone has any other ideas to try or has had similar problems.  I am just learning the car and mechanics in general so I do not have much experience to draw from.  I would greatly appreciate any help or ideas, it is my only car and has been in the family since 67 so I am terrified of doing any damage to it through my inexperience.  Thanks
                                                                           Taylor

[Cees Klumper]

It's a long shot but this is what I can think of given your 'symptoms' - have you perhaps overtightened the bolts on the valve cover, thereby distorting the towers that these screw into (this is quite common), this in turn interfering with the operation of a valve (never heard of that, but this could be a first time?). Or did something get 'left behind' underneath the valve cover as you replaced the gasket? I would lift the cover and carefully inspect the valve train's operation - visual check and if that does not turn up anything obviously wrong, turning the engine by hand (use a socket on the front pulley, 27 mm from memory, turning only clockwise - loosen the spark plugs to remove compression resistance).

[bpossel]

My suggestion would be to work with ONLY the parts that you changed.  Even if it means re-installing all your old parts and then installing the new parts one at a time.  While adjusting the valves may be needed, if your engine ran ok before the new alt, spark plug wires, vol reg, etc... it most likely is not what is causing your current issue.

Look closely at all of the areas that you touched to ensure that you didnt disturd anything.  The member that is coming over this weekend may be able to help look your engine over and spot what is out of order....  Start with the simple things first.

If you had electrical issues, and your butterfly is openig and closing, maybe disconnect the wires going to the idle switch on the throttle and see if that is the issue.?

Good Luck,
Bob