Recently I bought items to do a tune up on my 1976 230 and I ordered a point set for my distributor. The supplier suggested I also replace the condensor. However, upon removing he rotor and housing, I noticed I do not have a condensor. Now it is possible that this engine is a '74 or'75 as it is a used engine that was placed inside of may car, but I was just wondering if any of you oout there are familiar with my engine (4 cyl gas) and if should have a condensor or not?

Thanks,

AARON

1976 230.4

The cars originally had a condenser for radio suppression of the point signal. The car had one of the first transistor ignition systems and it only used the points for a trigger and the condenser played no part in the ignition.

The main failing was that the points didn't carry enough current to keep the points clean. As a result the points fouled and the cars stopped. MB was grasping at straws when they made a number of suggestions for remedial action. One of those suggestions was to remove the condenser. It turns out that nothing made a difference and they got rid of points triggered ignition in 77 on the 4cyls, 76 on the 6's and V8's.

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Steve Brotherton
Owner 24 bay BSC
Bosch Master, ASE master L1
26 years MB technician