OK, went ahead and had it towed to the shop for a new starter.

I tried hot wiring it as per the instructions above, but it still would not catch- just some clicks.

Sounds like a new MB when it starts now. 100X smoother and quieter.

----

Yes, Wilmington is a wonderful place to live. I'll miss it a ton.

__________________
'90 300SE 298k
-300K and it gets put into retirement.
'80 300D 255k Purchased new by family in 1980.

Had a:
1973 220 (gas)
1980 300SD
1992 400E