Author Topic: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch  (Read 8292 times)

klc1967230sl

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230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« on: July 15, 2019, 18:12:17 »
I have contacted numerous parts suppliers (BudsBenz, K&K Mfg., Authentic Classics, etc.), and they all say reproductions of this switch are simply not available.  Does anyone know of a supplier who still offers the switch?  Or someone who rebuilds them?  Or who the last manufacturer of the switch was?  This is an important subject for 230SL owners who need this part.  From what I have read, the turn signal switch for the 280SL is not available either.  What are 230SL and 280SL owners who need this part doing?

teahead

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1970 280SL auto, AC - aka "Edelweiss"

teahead

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #2 on: July 15, 2019, 18:15:37 »
What's wrong w/your current switch?

Wiper no worky?

Mechanically not working right?  If so, see:

https://www.sl113.org/forums/index.php?topic=3821.0
1970 280SL auto, AC - aka "Edelweiss"

klc1967230sl

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #3 on: July 15, 2019, 18:25:39 »
Oldtimer website says "not available now!"  I have not asked them if they anticipate getting more.

klc1967230sl

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #4 on: July 15, 2019, 18:37:07 »
Thanks, Teahead.  The plastic case is cracked and loose on the rest of the turn signal mechanism. Also, the unit does not operate WS wipers.  It's possible mine could be rebuilt if anyone knows who rebuilds them. One supplier showed a new one for sale at over $2,000, but even it is no longer available.

mbpaul

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #5 on: July 15, 2019, 18:41:32 »
I assume you tried the Classic Center.  I bought one from them a couple of years ago.

Pawel66

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #6 on: July 15, 2019, 18:57:08 »

In the EPC it shows red dot - NLA, but you can ask the Classic Center US, they are very helpful, part number is A 001 545 55 24. Used to be ca $800 when available.

Maybe there:
https://www.niemoeller.de/en/w113/w113/B042/460/d46183-combined-switch

Which plastic, this one?

https://oldtimer-ersatzteile24.de/Griffstueck-fuer-Mercedes-W113-Blinkerschalter

On this forum you may find a lot of threads on repairing of these switches. Use search "wiper switch" or "wiper switch repair/rebuild".

Pawel

280SL 1970 automatic 180G Silver
W128 220SE
W121 190SL
G-class

Benz Dr.

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #7 on: July 15, 2019, 19:28:21 »
I have some available for 280SL.
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

mbpaul

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #8 on: July 15, 2019, 19:36:42 »
Unfortunately, the 280SL turn signal switch is different.  The number that Pawel66 gave, A 001 545 55 24, is the one needed for the 230SL.

teahead

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #9 on: July 15, 2019, 20:19:31 »
Can one easily convert to the 280SL style?
1970 280SL auto, AC - aka "Edelweiss"

teahead

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #10 on: July 15, 2019, 20:20:32 »
I have some available for 280SL.

New or rebuilt used or just used?
1970 280SL auto, AC - aka "Edelweiss"

Benz Dr.

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #11 on: July 15, 2019, 20:55:23 »
Can one easily convert to the 280SL style?

No, I don't think so. Very different part.
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

UJJ

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #12 on: July 15, 2019, 21:42:24 »
I think this is the correct one for 230/250SL
New Very pricey$$$$

https://www.adsitco.com/parts/detail/Mercedes/turnsignal-switch/2888/
Urban Janssen
Grass Valley, CA
1968 280 SL - 4speed manual
173 anthracite grey

ja17

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #13 on: July 15, 2019, 23:00:34 »
I have taken these apart and repaired them, but they are very complicated. Lots of little parts (springs, balls, contacts etc.). It is good if you have a little watchmaking experience if you want to attempt it. I suspect that it is just a mater of time before someone offers a rebuilding service.
Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio
1969 Dark Olive 280SL
2002 ML55 AMG (tow vehicle)
2002 SLK32 AMG (350 hp)
1982 300TD Wagon turbo 4spd.
1963 404 Mercedes Unimog (Swedish Army)
1989 flu419 Mercedes Unimog (US Army)
1998 E430
1974 450SLC Rally
1965 220SE Finback

stickandrudderman

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #14 on: July 16, 2019, 15:59:34 »
Indeed it is a fiddly job but we rebuild them in-house.
UK might be too far for the OP though....

UJJ

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #15 on: July 16, 2019, 16:05:58 »
But he says the plastic case is cracked. Can it still be rebuild?
Urban Janssen
Grass Valley, CA
1968 280 SL - 4speed manual
173 anthracite grey

klc1967230sl

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #16 on: July 16, 2019, 16:37:25 »
I really appreciate everyone's suggestions and will be following up on them.  I'll also let you know what I end up doing.  BudBenz says that the part for a 280SL is not available either.  I have to think whoever once manufactured the reproductions will be doing so again soon. 

Benz Dr.

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #17 on: July 16, 2019, 16:50:28 »
I really appreciate everyone's suggestions and will be following up on them.  I'll also let you know what I end up doing.  BudBenz says that the part for a 280SL is not available either.  I have to think whoever once manufactured the reproductions will be doing so again soon.

280 signal switch is available. I can get over 200 of them. How many do you want?
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

klc1967230sl

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #18 on: July 16, 2019, 18:08:19 »
Benz Dr., the 280SL switch won't work with a 230SL.  Do you have a source for 230SL switches? Thanks.

teahead

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #19 on: July 16, 2019, 18:29:13 »
Benz Dr., the 280SL switch won't work with a 230SL.  Do you have a source for 230SL switches? Thanks.


Will it not physically bolt on?  What' so different about it?  If it's just wiring, I would think one could workaround that.

Folks have done this with BMW E9s where in 1974, the turn signal is on the LEFT side, but earlier it was on the right.  Wasn't that hard to convert to the 74-style with a little bit of wiring kabuki on earlier models.  Not saying it's the same deal, but I would think it would be possible for W113s???
1970 280SL auto, AC - aka "Edelweiss"

Benz Dr.

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #20 on: July 16, 2019, 19:34:41 »
Benz Dr., the 280SL switch won't work with a 230SL.  Do you have a source for 230SL switches? Thanks.

I think we are all aware that 230SL switches have dried up. Someone said that 280SL switches are also not available but that's not true. Only place you might find a 230SL switch is NOS or one from a parts car.
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

Pawel66

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #21 on: July 16, 2019, 21:41:19 »
Have you asked Niemoeller? I bought several parts from them based on their "available on request" classification.
Also: sometimes it works when you send a question to e-bay vendors about what you need even if they do not offer this exact part directly.
« Last Edit: July 16, 2019, 22:04:01 by Pawel66 »
Pawel

280SL 1970 automatic 180G Silver
W128 220SE
W121 190SL
G-class

PSB

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #22 on: July 17, 2019, 08:21:34 »
Hi,
I also got one (for 230SL) from Niemoeller about a year and a half ago. The electrician who was working with the car said it had some problem and they promptly sent me  with another one which worked fine.
Regards
Pedro

stickandrudderman

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #23 on: July 17, 2019, 09:21:22 »
There are a lot of differences between the 230 and 280 switch, not least of which is the chrome lever arm is different and the wrong one causes the switch to foul the steering wheel.

klc1967230sl

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #24 on: July 17, 2019, 19:15:10 »
UJJ, I checked with Adsitco, and they say the 230SL switch is not available.  I am now checking with Niemoeller.  I'll also check the references for rebuilding my switch.  I really appreciate everyone's help on this.  Please let me know any other ideas anyone might have. 

kampala

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #25 on: July 17, 2019, 19:47:04 »
May want to try Sam at Eurocars in Wisconsin.  He dismantles Pagodas and other mercs and sells the parts. 

eurocars@chorus.net

You might also find his phone via a search on this site. 
250sl - later - manual
280sl - 1971 - Auto - LSD

Aslam

klc1967230sl

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #26 on: July 18, 2019, 16:09:05 »
Pawel66, I checked with Niemoeller and they can't get the switch for the 230SL anymore. 
Thank you, Kampala.  I will check with your possible source for the switch.

Benz Dr.

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #27 on: July 18, 2019, 16:30:45 »
Only MB could make a car that uses model specific parts.  >:( Where it would of made more sense to use one from a sedan they had to design one that only fits that car.  ??? And, because you need it to drive your car so you can have signal lights, this becomes a safety issue.

I see this far too often on other MB models. Mechanical parts are not too bad but on certain trim and safety items, forget it. 230SL production is about 70% of 190SL production and you can get almost anything for a 190SL. I guess the value of a restored car is the determining factor.
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

Pawel66

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #28 on: July 18, 2019, 16:44:09 »
Sorry to hear that... then what comes to my mind is to send questions to e-bay vendors.
Pawel

280SL 1970 automatic 180G Silver
W128 220SE
W121 190SL
G-class

Martyberg

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #29 on: July 22, 2019, 08:13:30 »
I spend hours on the internet, emailing all the usual sources but everyone is out of stock. I would be very interested if you find someone who still has a few.
1967 250SL Auto

Pawel66

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #30 on: July 22, 2019, 09:23:58 »
Pawel

280SL 1970 automatic 180G Silver
W128 220SE
W121 190SL
G-class

klc1967230sl

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #31 on: July 26, 2019, 15:50:25 »
I still can't find a used or reproduction 230SL switch that will work (the "early style" switch.) Has anyone had any recent experience with individuals who rebuild these?  That may be the only option for me at this time.

I certainly agree with Benz Dr when he says "Where it would have made more sense to use one from a sedan, they had to design one that only fits that car." 

cfm65@me.com

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #32 on: July 26, 2019, 18:38:56 »
Hi Guys,
I recently bought a 250SL multifunction switch from a UK Mercedes dealership in the Swindon area. Yip, it was expensive but available a few month ago.
Regards
Chris
Cape Town
28 Ford Model A Pickup
29 Chevy Phaeton
67 E Type FHC
67 250SL 5 speed
83 911SC
2015 VW T5 California Pop Top

dirkbalter

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #33 on: July 26, 2019, 18:51:30 »
I still can't find a used or reproduction 230SL switch that will work (the "early style" switch.) Has anyone had any recent experience with individuals who rebuild these?  That may be the only option for me at this time.

I certainly agree with Benz Dr when he says "Where it would have made more sense to use one from a sedan, they had to design one that only fits that car."

The German speaking pagoda group has repair and assembly instructions for the for the unit. If that is an option for you, contact me should you need help.

Dirk   
Dirk
66 230 SL
70 280 SEL
53 CHEVY 3100
18 C300 COUPE
05 HD FLSTNI

mBdrvr

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #34 on: July 26, 2019, 19:39:43 »
Dirk,

Could you post a link to those instructions?

Paul
Paul Greenblatt
'70 280 SL
'66 250 SE Cabrio
'60 190 SL

dirkbalter

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #35 on: July 26, 2019, 20:16:57 »
Dirk,

Could you post a link to those instructions?

Paul

Paul,
Here is the PDF. Considering we are all friends, I don't think they'll mind me posting it here.
Dirk
66 230 SL
70 280 SEL
53 CHEVY 3100
18 C300 COUPE
05 HD FLSTNI

Benz Dr.

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #36 on: July 26, 2019, 21:26:42 »
Hi Guys,
I recently bought a 250SL multifunction switch from a UK Mercedes dealership in the Swindon area. Yip, it was expensive but available a few month ago.
Regards
Chris
Cape Town

That could be a late 250 you're referring to which would have a 280SL style switch.
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

PSB

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #37 on: July 28, 2019, 23:41:04 »
Stick,
Can you vive a ball parking figure of what it may cost....mine was not "sticking " when I pushed the lever for right or left turns. The electrician said he couldn't fix it as something was broken...It was replaced with one from Niemöller but I have kept the original. 230 car.
Thanks
Pedro

stickandrudderman

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #38 on: July 29, 2019, 09:52:26 »
It's £380 plus VAT and postage provided it can be done (but most can).
More if you want the shaft re-chromed.

UJJ

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #39 on: July 29, 2019, 21:48:26 »
You also can try Gernold Nisius, Arundel ME (SLTECH) he has a lot of used parts. (gernold@sltechw113.com)
Urban Janssen
Grass Valley, CA
1968 280 SL - 4speed manual
173 anthracite grey

klc1967230sl

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #40 on: July 30, 2019, 20:45:41 »
I can not thank everyone enough for all your help in trying to find this turn signal switch or locate someone who rebuilds them.  I've had almost 40 replies to my original post and over 800 views.  I'm still looking on ebay and other sites and will add a post when I figure out a solution.  Thank you again.  Our Pagoda SL Group is a truly amazing organization with extremely thoughtful and helpful members. 

Benz Dr.

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #41 on: July 30, 2019, 21:01:40 »
A lot depends on how it's broken. If it won't stay up or down when you signal to turn, that can be fixed most of the time. If the whole switch is smashed off the end of the wand - well, not so much.
1966 230SL 5 speed, LSD, header pipes, 300SE distributor, ported, polished and balanced, AKA  ''The Red Rocket ''
Dan Caron's SL Barn

1970  3.5 Coupe
1961  190SL
1985   300CD  Turbo Coupe
1981  300SD
2013  GMC  Sierra
1965  230SL
1967 250SL
1970 280SL
1988 560SEC

PSB

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #42 on: August 01, 2019, 08:13:45 »
Thanks Stick.
Something to keep in mind to repair and replace in the future .

mBdrvr

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Re: 230SL Turn Indicator Multi-Function Switch
« Reply #43 on: August 01, 2019, 17:05:44 »
Here's a translated version of the German instructions from the German Pagoda forum. I used Google translate so use at your own risk.

Paul
Paul Greenblatt
'70 280 SL
'66 250 SE Cabrio
'60 190 SL