Pagoda SL Group
W113 Pagoda SL Group => General Discussion => Topic started by: paul_GB on January 25, 2010, 22:18:32
-
Hi,
I am rebuilding my w113 engine at the moment. It has a 230SL head and someone installed a 250SE block at some point. Given the cost and rarity in finding a 230SL block I am continuing to rebuild the 250 bottom end. I am having problems sourcing a new set of pistons at 1mm O/S (83mm) in the UK. I dont want to pay MBZ prices if I can help it, but I dont want chinese parts either. Does anyone know of a source in the UK. Ive tried FW Thorntons already with no luck for that size. Any pointers would be appreciated. I will also need main and rod bearings but they are readily available.
Cheers
Paul
???
-
The 230SL and 250SL heads will interchange. The blocks are different with the 250 having 7 main bearings which is a stronger set up. The pistons and rods are also different in the 250 athough the bore is the same as the 230SL.
I have a couple of 230SL blocks around here.
-
Perhaps you can contact Mahle and ask about local or online suppliers.
MAHLE Aftermarket Ltd,
Springvale Business Park
Springvale Avenue
Bilston
West Midlands
WV14 0QL
Phone: +44-845-688 50 07
Fax: +44-845-688 50 09
Email: aftermarket@gb.mahle.com
FWIW, I know that Wayne Dempsey @ www.pelicanparts.com (http://www.pelicanparts.com) often has sales on piston sets. You may want to inquire regarding your particular application..
Good luck!
http://www.motorenteile.mahle.com/eLIZA/mahle/query/vehicle/byFullText (http://www.motorenteile.mahle.com/eLIZA/mahle/query/vehicle/byFullText)
(http://i609.photobucket.com/albums/tt180/RickMNJ/230SLMahle1.jpg)
-
I have a complete (minus camshaft) 230 engine that I MIGHT be talked into selling.
-
Thanks... I am getting a few options to explore now which is very useful. Really appreciate the drg info and contacts RickM.. I will let you know the outcome. Naj has also provided a few excellent leads. My 250 block is sitting at a local workshop awaiting me sourcing new pistons before the rebore and decking. The mechanic tried his usual suppliers without success. Altho it seems JE Pistons can manuf/supply any size W113 pistons at around $120 each (incl rings), plus shipping, with a 3 week lead time (thanks for the contact Naj). This seems a good price and I am guessing the quality is good.
Altho now some site members are offering me leads for 230 blocks/engines so I am now considering the option to replace my block/engine with a correct 230.
It will no doubt come down to cost at the end of the day as my funds are limited (typically by my wife ;)). Have to say this site is excellent and there is clearly heaps of knowledge and help out there. My goal is to get the car up and together to drive to LeMans Classic in July.. The ferry to France is already booked :). Other than the engine work I plan to refurb the power steering system (whilst it is accessible) and have the injection unit and autobox checked out.
Paul
-
Update.. may be useful to someone..
I managed to source a new set of genuine Mahle pistons that were ordered from the UK and cost a total of £537 (incl VAT and Del). I confess I was bowled over by the good service and value. Delivery was via a stock order to Germany and took just 2 weeks.
I'd recommend using this UK Mahle agent : NEVLOCK (assume I can say this on this forum). I have all the details if anyone is interested in using them.
Replacement bearings from the USA - main (£125) and rod (£68).. (plus shipping/tax). Maybe I could have got them at a similar price in the UK in hindsight.
I had the machine shop deck the block (£25), rebore (£60) and then check and polish the crank (£25) and fit the new pistons/bearings (£60).
The engine is coming back together (photo attached).. although its taking time given I am a relative novice and being so meticulous.
Ive attached the refurbished head since the photo and planning to fit the timing chain and then alloy sump this weekend
Thanks for the tech help guys..
Cheers
Paul