I have a problem with spark plug wires and spark plugs burning up on my 1976 280SL euro. I have checked the resisters and they seem to be ok. I don't have a problem with the points burning. The spark plugs will discolor and the plug wires will melt the boots around the plugs. I have put several plugs in and plug wires.
Any suggestions. Boyd

I guess you could have a problem with the ignition timing being too far retarded or the mixture being too lean. Both of these conditions will cause the head to run warm.

What kind of plugs and wires are you using? A European M110 should have W7DC or W7DCO plugs and 1K Ohm resistors on the plug wires.
Regards,
Randy D.

What a dummy I be. I never thought to look at the new wires that I bought from an unmentionable mercedes parts outlet. They gave me 5 k ohm wires, now that I looked at them. They also gave me resistor plugs. which I replaced with none resistor W8DC Bosch plugs. All the heat is concentrated at the wire end of the plugs. could 5 k ohms make that much difference? What kind of wires and plugs will I have to use if I convert from points to mag. pick up in the dist.? help Boyd

The combination of wires and plugs would cause a problem. Change the plugs first. I would use W7DC or W7DCO plugs to start with. If you run the car much out on the road, go with W6DC (or "0s"). The Euro M110 engine will run real hot in that area and never rattle (spark knock) until too late. A hemisherical combustion chamber will take lots of advance (about 44 degrees) but the temperature will be really high.
If that doesn't help get some 1K resistor ends.
Regards,
Randy(ignition is my life) D.