how do I identify my motor

[Bonanza]

I have a 1966 230SL that was a gift to me from my father.I am not sure about the history of the car. I know it was a basket case that my father spent a lot of time and effort to put back together and make it road worthy. The registration says 230SL, but on the left side of the head 250 is in the casting. Also on the oil dipstick above where the oil level marks are 230 / 250 are stamped on the shaft. I think this makes it a 250 engine. Am I correct in this assumption? 

[Richard Madison]

The Head Casting numbers can be confusing and the head might have been changed at some time.

Best ID for the engine block is to look at the engine number.

This number is punched into the block or might be on a small plate riveted to the block.

Need a light and look a few inches below Spark Plugs 5 and 6.

Some replacement engines were stamped with the same number as the original engine...some replacement engines were not stamped and have no number.

More details are here
http://www.sl113.org/wiki/DataCard/EngineNumber


Richard M

[Bonanza]

Thanks for the info Richard!  129 982 it is!  230SL with a 250 engine. I wish my car could talk. I am sure it has led a very interesting life.