ELECTRONIC IGNITION CONVERSION

[toneypenna]

Hi

I'm relatively new to the group, I am working on a 64 230 SL and looking to convert it to Electronic Ignition. Im have searched the posts and decided that replacing the original distributor with  the 123 electronic is the way I want to go. Any suggestions as to where would be  the best place purchase this product? Any input will be greatly appreciated.

Jim

[BobH]

Hello Jim, if you search the technical manual there's a list of vendors/suppliers that members have used for parts and service

If you choose a supplier i'm sure someone on here who has experience of them will comment

Quick link:

https://www.sl113.org/wiki/Suppliers/Start

[kampala]

Got mine a few years ago from:

https://123ignitionusa.com

(If you install yourself)

[awolff280sl]

also get the distributor ring clamp that 123igitionusa sells

[toneypenna]

Thank You for the speedy reply

Jim

[toneypenna]

I saw the vendor list when I was exploring the site, but didn't give it a thought when looking for a vendor for the distributor,

Thanks for your input.

Jim

[Pawel66]

I went for the bluetooth one - many possibilities to adjust and immobilizer built in.

[lagolag]

I use this Pertronix, just plug and play, can't be easier. installed it directly when I bought/ got it in July, works perfect.
PerTronix Ignitor
Ignitor Bosch 6 cyl 1864LA
https://vintageperformance.com/retrorockets/ignitor.htm

[mdsalemi]

We should make a very clear distinction between a "distributor replacement with an electronic model" (the 123 ignition) and an "electronic ignition conversion".

They are very different.

One involves adding a few small components to an existing distributor (which really needs to be in good condition all around) for perhaps $100 or so, and the other an entire replacement of the distributor.

If your distributor is in good shape, replacement isn't necessary but a conversion will bring benefits.
If your distributor has worn parts, adding electronics to it won't generally solve your problems...but changing to a 123 will save you the trouble of finding a rebuild source for the distributor AND the electronics.

[Tomnistuff]

I had my distributor (1966 230SL) rebuilt, then installed Pertronix myself (Pertronix 1864LA), and I'm perfectly happy with it.  Easy and works perfectly.  I even faked the wiring to the ballast resistor (making it nonfunctional but present for "looks").  The rebuild, without the Pertronix, was by Glenn Ring (a site on the internet).  It was reasonable but I don't remember how much, and it came back beautiful.
Tom Kizer

[mdsalemi]

I had my distributor (1966 230SL) rebuilt, then installed Pertronix myself (Pertronix 1864LA), and I'm perfectly happy with it.  Easy and works perfectly.  I even faked the wiring to the ballast resistor (making it nonfunctional but present for "looks").  The rebuild, without the Pertronix, was by Glenn Ring (a site on the internet).  It was reasonable but I don't remember how much, and it came back beautiful.
Tom Kizer

Tom, that's precisely what I did--to the letter. Rebuild the -051 by Glenn Ring, came back looking new. Installation of the Pertronix. Used the ballast resistor as a wiring tie point only on one end. Did that maybe 10 years ago and it's been smooth sailing ever since.

[toneypenna]

Yes, Thank you for your input. I agree, that's why I'm planning on changing the  distributor and going electronic
 to alleviate present and future problems.

Jim

[toneypenna]

Thanks for your input, I went to the glen ring website and checked it out I will compare cost. There is now a mention on his website about genuine Mercedes rebuild kits becoming scarce which may factor into my decision.  Thanks again

Jim

[Benz Dr.]

I've been rebuilding Bosch ignition distributors for about 25 years or more and I have never been aware of a MB rebuild kit. There is or was a kit which is a compilation of several different parts which will more or less give you what you need. You could buy bushings and return springs for the flyweights as separate pieces otherwise you would need a kit to do the full rebuild. Aside from the bushings, springs, and various shims of differing thickness, many of the rebuild parts won't ever be used because the kit covers several different models.     

[perry113]

I have installed 123's on 2 of my 3 vintage 60's mercedes and the product is great.
Yes you can get them here in USA
https://123ignitionusa.com

Ed Madak is the guy and he has been great. He can answer all of the needed questions.
Here is his email.
123ignitionusa@gmail.com

[SEB]

I had my distributor (1966 230SL) rebuilt, then installed Pertronix myself (Pertronix 1864LA), and I'm perfectly happy with it.  Easy and works perfectly. 

Personally, I am also a supporter of the Pertronix solution. Not so very well known in Europe. But recently, I noticed that a new model has appeared PERTRONIX 91863 Ignitor II.
https://pertronixbrands.com/products/pertronix-91863-ignitor-ii-adaptive-dwell-control-bosch-6-cyl?variant=31797071740964
Does anyone know the difference? Make it sens?

[toneypenna]

Thank you for your input, greatly appreciated. Sorry for the delay in getting back but haven't been on the site, holidays, etc.

[toneypenna]

Thank you for your input, Sorry for not answering sooner, been away and then the Holidays.
I'm going to go with 123 ignitionusa. Thanks again.

[dirkbalter]

As mentioned by Pawel, I like the Bluetooth one as well and would suggest it.

[Raymond]

I have a programmable 123 distributor but don't think I have the proper curve program.  Do any of you 123 owners have files you could share?

[Pawel66]

It is on this forum, courtesy of one of the Members. It worked for the author and it worked for me.

But I would suggest that you perform search on the forum to study the topic a bit more - switching to 123. There is plenty of info with details on how to set the distributor and ignition timing.

This distributor allows for altering the curve, also when you are driving, so you may want to play with it a bit once you have the basic set up.

[dirkbalter]

This works well for me (108/280sel). Similar to Paweł’s.

[mdsalemi]

...This distributor allows for altering the curve, also when you are driving...

What was once old, is now new again...many years ago, had the opportunity for a family friend to take me out for a spin in his 1927 Made in the USA Rolls Royce. The ignition timing was adjustable on the steering wheel while driving...

[Pawel66]

Well, I guess a lot of cars and motorcycles had it adjustable from the steering ... whatever .