Cap and Rotor for '86 420SEL

[420SEL]

I am planning on changing the distributor cap, rotor and wires on my 1986 420SEL. Does anyone have any advice, or know of something that might easily be overlooked in this proceedure? Also, what is the easiest way to go about it?



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Jason Priest
1986 420SEL

[Benzmac]

Rule 1, don't replace the wires. They are not a wear item...The tip does wear and go bad, but they are replaceable. The wires you will get will not be as good as the OE. They are solid core.

You can't change the timing on a 420 so don't try. IT is computer controled and fired off of the crank.

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Benzmac:
Donnie Drummonds
1991 GMC Syclone
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

[mihai914]

When I did it on my 420, one of the three screws that hold the cap had the head strip, be carefull on that point and I defenetly would replace it with a normal hex bolt. The rest is pretty forward and easy. Like Benzmac said, No timing on the car (I learned it from him too).

[420SEL]

I will be recieving my parts from Caliber Motors today and am planning to change the cap rotor and wires tomorrow. Any last tips or tricks that will make my job easier?



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Jason Priest
1986 420SEL

[Alain V.]

When I install a new cap on these, I always put a "light coat" of anti seize on the threads of the three screws so that future removal will be easier.

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Benzmac:

How easy is it to replace the connectors at the end of the plug wires? Are they crimp-on connectors? Any special brand of connector? (I just today received my plug wire pliers and was about ready to go and order my new wires when I saw this post.)

I'd like to "replace" my plug wires (the 560 has 99,500 miles on it), too, but I wasn't aware the replacement wires were inferior to the original equipment. The wires go for $100+, so if replacing just the connectors is sufficient, I might be able to save a few bucks without sacrificing quality.


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Al Spalmacin
1989 560SEL
1989 190E 2.6