W124 Distributor cap - how do I attach it?

[cardiffjim]

Sorry all...I've searched harder and found the answer. Eds - please delete.

 

[cardiffjim]

Actually maybe I haven't. It seems someone else had the same problem with the new distributor caps. Basically, my 1991 230 TE needed a new distributor cap, so I bought one...but it has the wrong bolts. Instead of sprung hook bolts it came with some really short bolts without nuts.

Has anyone found a hook bolt that will do the job on the new caps? I'm heading up to B&Q for a search shortly but if it's likely to be fruitless I'll just order a new cap with the old spring bolts.

 

[cardiffjim]

Ok...got it attached by using cable ties. I know that's not an ideal solution, but it works.

Now...I'm pretty sure I've got the sequence of plugs right, because it fired up first time, but it's still running rough. Anyone kind enough to suggest common reasons why?

Bit of background - it had the water-pump changed, then the alternator went, it stood for a month or so, and now it runs rough. Not surprisingly.

I'd like to sort this myself if I can, so your tips are eagerly awaited!

Cheers,
Jim

 

[turnipsock]

The dealers can't supply the older dist caps anymore.

I think I got the correct one from French, Swedish and German Car Parts (I think that is the right order)

http://www.gsfcarparts.com/

Did you work out why the alternator went? Did the battery go flat at any time?

When I did my water pump, I disconnected something in around the injection system to give me more room to get the water pump bolts out. I forgot to reconnect it and the car would run, but very badly.

 

[cardiffjim]

The alternator had a refurb, which it apparently was in dire need of. I think the water pump was leaking for a long time before it completely went and perhaps caused the car to run hot and the fan to be over-worked, wearing out the alternator? Just a hunch.

Anyway, I've booked it into a friendly local garage who will investigate the rough idle and developing misfire for me. My pessimistic nature is telling me it's a head gasket leak, but my hopeful side is saying it's something nice and cheap

Thanks for the reply!

jim

 

[turnipsock]

Sometimes the water pump has an impeller problem but that is not related to a leak. A leak causes the coolant to drop in level.

An impeller problem causes the coolant to not be circulated. Circulation problems are usually due to a blocked radiator or blocked cooling system.

 

[MW]

My 1992 has 2 threaded bolts/screws on the cap that go directly into the block. When I first replaced it the screws were very thight. I put copper grease on the new ones and 6 years later they came out very easy. I did not know there was a spring clip version.

 

[MW]

Also, the golden rule when replacing leads on a new distributor cap is to do them one at a time. Then you cannot mess up the order.

 

[television]

The water pumps on these cars are placed very high up on the engine, once the water level falls below the impeller, circulation ceases untill the water level rises with the rapid temperture increase that taks place, and then continues until the level drops to far.

This cannot have any effect on the alternator or the loading on it,even with wires off it will not blow.

Malcolm