The problem started when I would turn the key and no starter !!!
So, its the solenoid right ?? Well, I replaced it with a known good starter from another 300SD. It worked for a bit but within days I saw the problem again. In all these cases I could use a screwdriver to jump the 'S' terminal and the + terminal and start it.
Or, just short it for a second and then it ALWAYS cranks using the key.

Thats the puzzling part,

When it became more and more frequent I swapped in a 'brand new' starter, redid the wiring from the battery and the bus on the fenderwell. All new wires, heavy guage wire from the battery positive etc:-

worked great for 2 days and then the same symptom.

what gives ?


this is on a 1980 116 body 300SD

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1982 300SD (214 k, excellent shape) kidmobile running mostly biodiesel, gets 31 mpg hwy with 2.82 rear from a euro 500SEL



1976 115 body 240D 4-speed (traded for Jeep parts) - Engine lives on in my CJ7