Replacing ignition components

[Brenco]

Hi all
Having had experienced a rough running engine and a breakdown last week on investigation I found I had a broken distributor cap. Having replaced the cap I am in the middle of replacing some of the other electrical components of the ignition system. I replaced the distributor rotor and am now looking at the points, coil and the ballast resistor as they look like the original parts and as we are considering touring France later this year I want to ensure no other breakdowns relating to these components. At this stage I only want to replace the items rather than upgrade to the pertronix system. I found some recommendations on our great website.....
Bosch part #s
Red Coil             0 221 119 030
1.8ohm Ballast   0 227 901 014

051 dist points  1 237 013 027
051 condenser    1 237 330 067

My pagoda is possibly March/April 1969 280 sl. Can anyone confirm the above recommendations are correct?

[Brenco]

Sorry meant to label photos... I’m sure none of you need them identified!!
They are the distributor, coil and the old rotor.
The photo below is the ballast resistor. I can’t find any identifying numbers in it...

[ja17]

Yes, the Bosch red coil with the 1.8 ohm ballast resistor is a good upgrade if you do not wish to go electronic.

[Benz Dr.]

I would also check your ignition wires to make sure there are no carbon core in there. Coil wire is the most often changed to carbon.

[Brenco]

I would also check your ignition wires to make sure there are no carbon core in there. Coil wire is the most often changed to carbon.

When you say ignition wires do you mean spark plug leads? And how would I know if there is a carbon issue? Apologies for lack of knowledge in this regard!

[Mike Hughes]

There are solid core spark plug wires (usually twisted or braided copper or steel) and there are also more modern carbon core wires (carbon impregnated textile).  The ignition systems of our cars predate the era of carbon core spark plug leads and they do not return acceptable performance over time when substituted for solid core spark plug leads in our cars.

If you can't find actual braided metal at the core of your spark plug leads or the ignition lead from the coil to the distributor cap, throw the offending wires into the rubbish bin with a foul oath and replace them with solid core leads.

[ja17]

The spark plug wires and coil wires should be solid braided copper.  The silver color is tin plating on the copper wire to prevent oxidation. If you give them a little scrape you'll see the copper color beneath.

[Brenco]

Will check the wires later this week. Thanks to you all for the comprehensive help and guidance!

[cfm65@me.com]

Hi Joe and Doc,
I have a basic 123 dizzy with carbon plug wires one my 250SL.  Which coil and plugs do you recommend and should I loose the ballast resistor?
Your suggestions would be much appreciated.
Regards
 Chris