Pagoda SL Group

W113 Pagoda SL Group => Drive train, fuel, suspension, steering & brakes => Topic started by: russelljones48 on April 10, 2024, 21:50:00

Title: Valve rotators
Post by: russelljones48 on April 10, 2024, 21:50:00

I'm having trouble understandng the necessity of the valve rotators on my "67 230..  It appears (from a Haynes book) that MB did not continue them on the 280 but that could be an error.  The majority of my research indicates that very few modern ICE's have them any more yet small airplane engines (Lycoming, Continental) appear to continue with them.  Opinions needed on leaving them off my rebuilt head.   I could upgrade the valves and springs to more modern tecnology more easily if valve rotators weren't required..     

Title: Re: Valve rotators
Post by: Benz Dr. on April 11, 2024, 00:42:36

All three engine versions use them. They spin the valves which helps to keep the valve seat and face clean. Leave them in place.

Title: Re: Valve rotators
Post by: russelljones48 on April 11, 2024, 01:24:53

Thanks..  Never trust the Haynes manual  :-\

Title: Re: Valve rotators
Post by: mdsalemi on April 11, 2024, 15:28:59

Quote from: russelljones48 on April 10, 2024, 21:50:00

I'm having trouble understanding the necessity of the valve rotators on my '67 230...I could upgrade the valves and springs to more modern technology more easily if valve rotators weren't required...   

Hopefully you have been convinced by Dan Caron (Dr. Benz) not to change anything. But in the case where you think you have an idea for some improvement such as "more modern valves and springs" let me suggest you offer to purchase a bit of time on the phone with Mike Elias of Metric Motors. I would propose that nobody or no firm in the USA has more direct hands on experience with our three engines (along with a lot of others) than does Mike. They've been at this for decades, have seen about darn near everything come in their loading dock, and sent out thousands of engines. Along with that experience comes an unparalleled wealth of knowledge that is simply without equal.

Title: Re: Valve rotators
Post by: russelljones48 on April 11, 2024, 20:40:28

Is this the Metric Motors in Canoga Park Ca.? 

Title: Re: Valve rotators
Post by: mdsalemi on April 12, 2024, 09:13:45

Quote from: russelljones48 on April 11, 2024, 20:40:28

Is this the Metric Motors in Canoga Park Ca.?

The one and only. Yes.
https://mercedesengines.net/