PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post

Squiggle Dog · #54 09-29-2018, 08:38 PM

The 350SDL had been getting hard to start, and the other day my roommate called me from work because the engine wouldn't crank over at all. It turned out the four-and-a-half year old Bosch battery was bad (it would hold voltage, but not much amperage), so he got a new pro-rated one from Pep-Boys.

The battery tray was rusty, so I replaced it with one that he had powder coated. I also installed a new washer fluid reservoir and pumps. An interesting feature of this car is that the washer fluid and windshield glass are heated by coolant.

It received a new Bosch battery under proratia. Apparently four-and-a-half years is beyond life expectancy of a battery in this climate. Pep Boys was saying they get a lot of batteries returned after only 6 months.

I also replaced the combination switch on the steering column (which wasn't easy) in hopes it would solve the high beam indicator light being stuck on, no high beams, and the windshield washer not working when the headlights are off. (which it didn't). So I still have a bunch of electrical problems to chase down.

Look at all the damage that has to happen in order to replace the combination switch.

At least we found a new genuine Mercedes combination switch on eBay for only $80. That was a score as they are normally over $300. Otherwise it would have been using a ÜRO brand or used one. I still ended up having to add two contacts from the old switch and it was odd how the cruise control stalk slides and clips in.

After replacing the battery, the alternator tested bad, so I replaced the voltage regulator on the alternator with a new Bosch one (made in Taiwan). It fixed the problem. Look how worn the brushes are on the old one (right) compared to the new one (left).