E300 ignition problems-please help!

[fent77]

i could do with a bit of advice about an e300, v-reg, with intermittent starting problems. its a a lovely car with a great diesel engine, but it is so frustrating. sometimes it starts fine, then next time its completely dead. suspect might need a new starter motor, but dont want to go that far, if it could be a simple problem elsewhere. has anyone any thoughts? thanks!

 

[television]

If completely dead, you do need to put a voltmeter on the end of the starter, to see if the 12 volts is going to the small terminal that operates the solinoid when the key is turned. If you do get 12volt when the key is turned to start, then the starter is at fault.

Malcolm

 

[tom7035]

Also check the basics like chassis to engine earth strap etc. I've come across this many times in the past and found causes like dirty battery terminals, earths and faulty starter connections. Granted, these were cases usually where maintenance was questionable.

 

[television]

Also check the basics like chassis to engine earth strap etc. I've come across this many times in the past and found causes like dirty battery terminals, earths and faulty starter connections. Granted, these were cases usually where maintenance was questionable.

Tom, you bring the worst out in me, sometimes when a car wont start it is often a dirty battery terminal, I completely forgot the most common. Its no good, I shall have to open a sweet shop. Thanks TOM


Malcolm

 

[tom7035]

Tom, you bring the worst out in me, sometimes when a car wont start it is often a dirty battery terminal, I completely forgot the most common. Its no good, I shall have to open a sweet shop. Thanks TOM


Malcolm

Don't worry Malcolm, I'd buy your sweets!!

 

[fent77]

a problem shared is a problem solved!

thanks for the help out there! problem now sorted Great advice!