Mystery Electrical Plug. What is it for?

[rb6667]

Does not seem to be anything that this plugs into.  What is it for? Appears to be factory installed.

Thanks in advance.

RB6667

[w113dude]

I believe this plug is for exterior regulator, your alternator must have been upgraded sometimes in the past to a self-containing regulator.

[rb6667]

Here is a picture of the alternator.  What can you tell me about this alternator?  Higher output? Better design?

Thanks for the response.

RB6667

[w113dude]

Newer design, the black & white piece at the bottom of the wiring connector is the regulator attached to the alternator. the original design had an exterior regulator an aluminum box shape piece that was mounted right next to the expansion tank.

[rb6667]

Mystery solved.  Does this alternator have a higher output over the original?  Was it used on other cars of the era?   Any thoughts on where I could find a factory looking plug to finish the installation  correctly?

Thanks very much.

RB6667

[w113dude]

I don't think it does have more output, but the newer versions eliminates having to deal with an extra part.
It looks something like this. and here is a link, make sure it's right kind if it's going to be a functional piece.

http://www.autohausaz.com/search/product.aspx?sid=nvcuy0fiabm2cl552x55ai45&makeid=800016@Mercedes&modelid=1193486@280SL&year=1969&cid=18@Electrical%20%26%20Vacuum&gid=4884@Voltage%20Regulator

[Naj ✝︎]

Mystery solved.  Does this alternator have a higher output over the original?  Was it used on other cars of the era?   Any thoughts on where I could find a factory looking plug to finish the installation  correctly?

Thanks very much.

RB6667

The alternator looks similar to a 55 amp alternator used on late cars.
For the correct 'europlug' connector, details in the wiki:

http://www.sl113.org/wiki/Electrical/Connectors

Last one in the list.

Naj

[ja17]

Yes, most likely a higher output 55 amp unit.   The originals were 35 amp.   Other MB cars used these units in the 70's.  New and used plugs can be found or ordered.

[rb6667]

Very good info from all.  I'll go on the hunt for that plug.

Thank you for all the responses.

RB6667