Hello Leah,
Naj is correct, some of the later distributors have the number stamped in the side with no tag. Use a flash light (torch) and a mirror to see the number.
Now I have my own code for describing the type of contacts used in these cars which I have used for years. Three features easily describe any set. (1) Look down on the distributor and see if the contact set goes "clockwise" or "counterclockwise" (start at the pivot and moving in the direction of the contacts). (2) see if you have a "fork" terminal or "spade" terminal at the end of the contact set wire. (3) is the post (pivot) of the contacts "built in the distributor" or "part of the contact set".
Now you should be able to easily describe the type of contact set you need.
The earliest W113 cars used ignition contacts which were "counterclockwise", with "forked wire terminal" and no "post" (pivot).
Later W113 cars used ignition contacts which were "clockwise", with "forked" wire terminal, and no "post" (pivot)
Latest W113 cars used ignition contacts which were "clockwise", with "spade" (slide on) wire terminal and hd the "pivot" (post) built into the ingnition contacts.
The above descriptions are accurate if the original distributors are still with the car. However you can still use the three distinguishing factors to describe any ingnition contacts accurately.
I believe the later USA cars used the ignition contacts which were "clockwise"/ "spade" wire terminal/with "post" built into the ignition contacts. This was Bosch #1 237 013 059. I see several other Bosch ignition contact sets in my catalog which have the same configuration and may work. Sometimes only the length or direction of the wire is slightly different! Quite usable. I see at least six possible alternatives.
With the original sets, the "fork" wire terminal type of contacts were always used on the non-transistorized cars, while the "spade" (slide-on) wire terminals were always used on the factory transistorized cars. This rule may not apply if the original distributors have been changed.
I have some early Bosch catalogs which have pictures of the contacts and also show cross reff. to different types of automobiles of the era. In most cases many of these contact sets were used in many other applications. Same sets were used in Alfa Romeo, BMW, Volvo, VW etc.
I think that if you get us the right information you will have no trouble finding the ignition contacts locally.
First of all, if you can not retrieve a distributor part number. Use the above three part method to identify the ignition contacts that you have in your car. Then I can supply you with several Bosch part numbers so you can buy them locally hopefully. If not, I am sure we can get some shipped to you.
Carry on!
