Pardon me for my ignorance. I just obtained a 1977 450SL with a brand new top, straight body, and a rusted out engine. (my first mercedes)

I'm looking to replace the engine but I'm having a hard time finding one. I did come across a 1976 450SL engine however.

My question is: Will the 1976 engine work for my 1977? All I know the cat is in a differnt location.

Thanks,
blueone

Hmmmm...I think I found my answer after surfing a bit more. It looks like the engine number 117.985 is the same for both years. The only difference being the exaust when they move the cat in 1977.

Am I correct in thinking this? Looks like the only other difference I saw was the HP moving from 180@5000rpm in 76 to 180@4750rpm in 77.


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Beverly "blueone" Treadwell
77 450SL

Yes the engines will swap. The airflow meter is slightly different on the 76 and the warm-up pressure regulator was changed from the first ones in 76, but either one will work on either engine in either car. This would apply also to 78 and 79 models too. The 80 model had significant fuel system changes with the onset of K-Jet w/lambda.

The may be dumb question, but as long it is the same body style, could you fit it in. The made that style for about 10+ years, rught.

For example, the 126 was made from 81 to 91. Wouldn';t an 85 500 SEL engine fit in any of them?

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'89 420 SEL
'90 300 SEL
'68 Olds 88 Convertible
'84 300 SD (sold it)

The engines from later generation SLs may fit in the engine compartment of an early SL, but there are many changes with each new engine. Everything from computer controls, to exhaust, and suspension, etc. It may be more hassle than its worth to try and use a different engine than what it came with.

Great! Thanks for the help!

Looks like I'm in luck then. It breaks my heart to see that car sitting in my driveway not running. The car I'm getting it from was rolled by the owner has only 80 to 85k documented miles. They have had it running since it rolled.

I'm getting everything in the engine compartment for $1500 (still negotiating) does this sound like a good price? - I'm in CA.

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Beverly "blueone" Treadwell
-77 450SL

Sounds like a good deal to me. I had to put a new engine in my wife's caddy two years ago. The engine was brand new, cost $4500 installed, and that is all I got. Nothing else. If you are getting everything in the engine compartment you're scored. Lots of spare parts for you for future use.


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Jason Priest
1986 420SEL