So I finanly got the vacuum system set up according to OnDemand 5. So then I decided to check the ignition system, found out the previous owner had the plug wires on the wrong posts on the distro cap, and the distro was 180 degrees out out TDC. The hold down bolt was frozen, had to cut that off and am getting a new one, then set the distro to TDC, redo the cap wires and retime it.
Tried to call the Benz dealer, they wouldn't help. Found diagrams online. Now just to get it done. Sometimes, I just wish that, if you don't know what you are doing, leave it alone and get it fixed by someone who does. Only thing that is making this project worthwhile, is that it is a classic 85 Benz 500 SEL. It is for the wife, and its getting there.
Once this is done, not touching it again, repair wise, until I return from overseas.
Biggest lesson, never trust anyone who says that the car was serviced at a Benz dealer.

Looking at an illustration of that distributor cap on a parts website it sounds like the distributor cap was installed 180 degrees off so the plug wires didn't match the cylinder numbers on the distributor cap. Presuming the distributor cap can be installed correctly or 180 degrees off, all you needed to do was remove the ignition wires and turn the distributor cap 180 degrees, not fool with the distributor itself.

It's likely a MB dealer tech who works on those engines regularly installed the distributor cap incorrectly. But since he knows how the ignition wires attach to the distributor cap he doesn't need to rely on the terminal markings like a DIY'er would.

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Fred Hoelzle

Distro cap only fits on one way. It's just a matter of deserting everything. Better to redo it and know its right than to trust anything at this point. You shoulda seen the vacuum setup. LOL, that was a joke.