Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => Electrical and Instruments => Topic started by: kbudd on April 30, 2009, 00:53:15

Title: electronic ignition for 280SL
Post by: kbudd on April 30, 2009, 00:53:15

I am a new member and I have a 1970 280SL that my wife had when we got married. I have installed electronic ignitions on every old motorcycle I have owned. Is this recommended for old Mercedes ? If so, which type is advised. I have done a bit of research and have seen a Crane and a 123ignition system. Any preferences. Thanks.

Title: Re: electronic ignition for 280SL
Post by: waqas on April 30, 2009, 05:31:15

The Technical Manual has some good info regarding the 123-, Crane, and Pertonix electronic ignition setups; available here: http://www.sl113.org/wiki/Electrical/ElectronicIgnitions (http://www.sl113.org/wiki/Electrical/ElectronicIgnitions).

Also, search through the forum archives to read through the numerous relevant posts and discussions on the subject.

Title: Re: electronic ignition for 280SL
Post by: Peter van Es on April 30, 2009, 08:29:51

This is the thread you'll need to read: http://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=9984.0

Peter

Title: Re: electronic ignition for 280SL
Post by: hkollan on April 30, 2009, 10:53:08

As long as you don't have any specific issues with your current setup, such as a totally worn out distributor etc. and the car is running fine,
 why not keep it original?  If the distributor is toast, then the 123-system is a good and relatively cost effective alternative.

Title: Re: electronic ignition for 280SL
Post by: kbudd on April 30, 2009, 12:46:57

Thanks. I figured there would be good info somewhere on the sight. It is idling rough and stumbling a bit off idle. I will check the mechanical part of the system and if worn will probably go with the 123.
Thanks again
Kevin

Title: Re: electronic ignition for 280SL
Post by: Allenh on May 02, 2009, 00:40:47

I decided to put a pertronix into my '64 230sl.  It is awesome.  One has to look carefully to detect it, if you wire it right.  The improvement is easy to see when timing the engine. At idle, the timing tended to jump around, still ran well, with the kit- it is rock spot on, all the time.  It cannot help but to improve driveability.  I restored my car as faithful as possible, but I finally opted for old car reliability. I don't want to be on the back of a truck. You can't buy "original" leaded gas anymore either.

Kits are specific for the type or version distributor.  the standard Ignitor series is compatible with the original coil, no change from original look.  I saved my piont, I'll donate them to a museum.

Title: Re: electronic ignition for 280SL
Post by: Bullethead on May 06, 2009, 16:24:08

I installed a Crane kit on my '68 280SL when I rebuilt the engine, and wouldn't hesitate to install any MSD system on an older car.
The improvements in accurate timing, smoother running & improved performance including better fuel burn are the best recommendations anyone should need.
Simple to install, an MSD might not look right but if you regularly drive your car you'll appreciate it.