Mercedes Benz 230 SL (W113) (1963-71)

Common faults with the 1963-71 Mercedes Benz 230SL, also known as the 'Pagoda', include:

- **Engine Issues**: Hardened or worn valve stem seals can cause blue smoke on acceleration. Dirty oil can damage the fuel pump, which is costly to rebuild¹.
- **Fuel System**: Rust in the pipework due to neglect or lack of use can block injectors. Prolonged storage can cause rust and corrosion internally in the fuel tank²³.
- **Mechanical Systems**: It's important to evaluate all mechanical systems as rebuilding brakes, suspension, engine, fuel system, and other mechanicals can be costly⁴.
- **Rust**: Rust is a common issue, particularly in the inner aprons, structure from firewall forward, and floorboards⁶.

It's advisable to have a thorough inspection done by a professional if you're considering purchasing one or if you're experiencing problems with your current vehicle.
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Generations
The Mercedes Benz 230SL is considered to be a single generation within the W113 series. It was introduced as the first modern-production SL in the Mercedes-Benz lineup and was later replaced by the 250SL⁴⁶. There are no separate generations within the 230SL model itself.
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Body Style/Variants
The Mercedes Benz 230SL W113 had three different variants during its production run:

1. **230SL**: The first variant, introduced with a 2.3-litre straight-six engine.
2. **250SL**: Replaced the 230SL in 1966 with a 2.5-litre engine.
3. **280SL**: The final variant, introduced in 1968 with a 2.8-litre engine³.

These variants are collectively known as the W113 series and are often referred to as "Pagoda" due to their distinctive hardtop roof design.
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Engines
The W113 Mercedes Benz 230SL was equipped with one engine type throughout its production. It had a naturally aspirated petrol, **2.3 litre**, single overhead camshaft **6 cylinder** engine with an output of **148 bhp** and maximum torque of **196 N·m**². This engine is known as the **M127** straight-six.
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Spares
Here are some places in the UK where you can locate spares for a 1970 Mercedes 230SL W113:

- **The SL Shop**: Specializes in Mercedes-Benz W113 SL Pagoda parts, including refurbished units by expert technicians. [The SL Shop](https://parts.theslshop.com/sl-w113-pagoda/)¹
- **Millers Mercedes Benz Parts**: Offers parts for W113 230SL 250SL 280SL Pagoda. [Millers Mercedes Benz Parts](https://shop.millermbz.com/parts-catalogs/w113-br-230sl-250sl-280sl-br-1963-1971/)²
- **Bud's Benz**: Provides a catalog for Mercedes-Benz SLs made from 1963 to 1971, including the 230SL. [Bud's Benz](https://www.budsbenz.com/catalog/230-250-280-sl)³
- **Classic Mercedes Parts**: Features a parts catalog for Mercedes-Benz W113 230SL 250SL 280SL Pagoda. [Classic Mercedes Parts](https://classic-mercedes-parts.com/en/w113/)⁴
- **Niemöller**: Offers a growing range of original parts for Mercedes W113. [Niemöller](https://www.niemoeller.de/en/catalog-d/w113)⁵

Please check their websites or contact them directly to ensure they can ship to your location in Ireland if needed.