380sl Completely Dead

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Jim Lang - 25 Oct 2006 19:21 GMT

Hi,

My 81 380sl with 150k miles on it isn't making a sound when I turn the
key. The battery has 12+ volts, the lights are bright, and the voltage
at the coil is right. Can anyone suggest the next best place to look
for the problem? I have had any indications that the starter was
going bad, and can't imagine it would just quit totally like that.
Should i look for something else electrical ?

Thanks

Bill

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macdrone - 25 Oct 2006 19:49 GMT

> Hi,
>
[quoted text clipped - 8 lines]
>
> Bill

How about fuse? Starter Relay? Ignition switch? OVP? all likely but
you'll have to check each for sure.

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T.G. Lambach - 25 Oct 2006 20:09 GMT

Starters don't take a bow before exiting, they quit.

It's either the starter or the neutral safety switch. Tap or rap the
starter (depending on your mood) and try it. If it cranks after being
tapped the starter is bad. If not move the shifter P to D, D to P until
you find a spot where the engine will crank. If that starts the motor
you know the switch is the cause.

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Jim Lang - 25 Oct 2006 21:37 GMT

Thanks a lot T.G.

I went out, jacked the car up, went under it, and hit the starter with
a hammer 3 or four times. I was skeptical, but it worked like a charm.
Started right up. But i guess i need one ?

Next question: how difficult is it to replace one of these babies. I
read somewhere that getting the top bolt out can be a real bitch. Any
advice in this regard.

Thanks again. You're a saint!

Jim

>Starters don't take a bow before exiting, they quit.
>
[quoted text clipped - 3 lines]
>you find a spot where the engine will crank. If that starts the motor
>you know the switch is the cause.

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T.G. Lambach - 25 Oct 2006 23:13 GMT

Thanks.

I'm too old to change starters. Suggest you pose a new message to the
group asking your specific question.

Of course you could just carry a hammer.....

Tom

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Guenter Scholz - 26 Oct 2006 02:00 GMT

>Starters don't take a bow before exiting, they quit.

my experience as well, however, he should still hear the solenoid
clicking (clacking?) in and out. therefore, probably your suggestion below

cheers, guenter

>It's either the starter or the neutral safety switch. Tap or rap the
>starter (depending on your mood) and try it. If it cranks after being
>tapped the starter is bad. If not move the shifter P to D, D to P until
>you find a spot where the engine will crank. If that starts the motor
>you know the switch is the cause.

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TPr - 26 Oct 2006 09:41 GMT

if it hasnt allready been done, do yourself a favour and replace the timing
chain & sprockets for the updated duplex type, otherwise your car will end
up on the crusher like so many others sporting this engine.

| Hi,
|
[quoted text clipped - 8 lines]
|
| Bill

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