1985 190E engine
 

:rolleyes: I recently purchased a 1985 190E/ 2.3. In the past it was wrecked and the rad support replaced. This is my first mercedes! I want to tune it up and my local part shops do not have a distributor cap. I found the cap but they need to know if it is 16valve or 8 valve. I know the body is a 201 and the engine should be a 102 but is there any distinguishing characters like size of valve cover etc. to tell if 16 or 8 valve? Does the cap really matter if it is 16 or 8? I haven't been able to find any owners manual for this also?
Any help is greatly appreciated!!
Thanx in advance! :confused:

First off, consider buying your parts from this site (FastLane & PartShop). They make the information on this forum possible. By supporting their business, you're supporting this site. Besides their prices and service are first-rate.

As for your engine, if you had the 16 valve you'd know it. It's a very rare option that would make your mild mannered benz act like a sports car. The valve cover has a HUGE "2.3 16" on the top.

Here's a good example of one on Ebay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2461977352&category=6328

Welcome to the forum, and good luck with your "new" car. It's a fantastic automobile.

Jeff Pierce

In the U.S., anyway, the 16V arrived for the '86 model year. The valve cover isn't peaked down the middle and displays two bumps on the front edge for the twin cams.

Steve

Thanx for the replies! Yes I am amazed at the handling and ride of this vehicle for the age and mileage. These responses clarifies my engine. I will be sure to check out fastlane!
Thanx again, Larry

I'm betting it's the 8 valve, since I wonder if anyone accidentally ever bought a 2.3-16. It would be like going out to buy a Mustang and accidentally buying a Shelby or Boss 302. The owners manual is easy to get, either on Ebay or at the dealership/MBUSA. I would strongly suggest that you pick up a copy of the Haynes motor and chassis service book for the 190E as a reference. It doesn't cover the whole car (hvac and trans are notable omissions), but it's a comfort when you don't know where to start.