Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => Drive train, fuel, suspension, steering & brakes => Topic started by: Jack Jones on January 19, 2015, 14:58:50

Title: Late 1970 280SL Camshaft
Post by: Jack Jones on January 19, 2015, 14:58:50

I am looking at a 02 camshaft for my 1970 US emission 280SL and would like some advice. Since I believe this is a Euro spec cam how would it perform when used in my application. I am completely overhauling the engine including a new cylinder head, pistons, bearings etc.

Jack   

Title: Re: Late 1970 280SL Camshaft
Post by: ja17 on January 19, 2015, 15:29:36

Hello Jack,

The "hot cams" for the 280SL euro spec engines were "02" and "09".  The "09" was the same spec but was made from "improved material".   Be careful with the cam supports. At some point they increased the diameter of the cam bearing journals. Early and late sets of cam supports will not interchange. No sure of the specifics on this. Keep them matched with the cam they came off of if possible.

Title: Re: Late 1970 280SL Camshaft
Post by: Jack Jones on January 20, 2015, 14:24:36

Hi Joe,

Thank-you for you advice. The 02 camshaft I am looking at is new from Mercedes as they are still available and I would assume adhere to the improved materials updates. Should I be replacing the cam bearing journals as a good practice or can they be reused if there are no signs of wear and are within spec?

Jack

Title: Re: Late 1970 280SL Camshaft
Post by: ja17 on January 20, 2015, 15:10:49

If the cam holders show no sign of damage and are up to specs, there is no reason they cannot be re-used. Some like to change them in any case, however they are quite pricey these days. The rocker arms are most often replaced with new, since any wear ridges on them might transfer to your new camshaft.

Title: Re: Late 1970 280SL Camshaft
Post by: Jack Jones on January 20, 2015, 16:55:39

I agree Joe and I have a set of new MB rocker arms waiting for the install.

Thank-you for your assistance Joe.

Title: Re: Late 1970 280SL Camshaft
Post by: G$ 993 on February 27, 2015, 05:34:18

I am in the process of installing an 02 cam in my 1970 SL.  I went ahead an ordered new towers, rocker arms, bearings, etc.  Install is going well.  Can give thoughts on the conversion when complete.

Title: Re: Late 1970 280SL Camshaft
Post by: Jack Jones on February 27, 2015, 22:19:13

That would be great and I look forward to it.

Title: Re: Late 1970 280SL Camshaft
Post by: Benz Dr. on March 01, 2015, 22:18:24

Pay attention to rocker geometry. Get this wrong and you will be installing a new set of valve guides.

Title: Re: Late 1970 280SL Camshaft
Post by: G$ 993 on March 08, 2015, 06:09:40

Finally got to drive the car with Cam 02.  Very nice.  Car idles very well and pulls smoothly and powerfully.  If you are looking at doing top end work, this is a nice upgrade.  The cam I replaced (10) was flat as the oil feeder line had a small bend which caused oil starvation to a couple of lobes.  No reservations regarding this mod!