HI,
I am still getting to know my 84 300d, and just found a new problem. Parked on a slope (driveway at new house). When I went to start it later, I got a bad starter grind problem. Put my foot on the brake and started in neutral no problem. Same thing next time I parked in the new driveway, but parked at my old place with a level driveway and starts fine. I am guessing the problem occurs during the slight rollback as the tranny stops the car from rolling back down the driveway. What I don't get is why? Seems like the starter should mesh with the flywheel even if it rotates a bit when the car settles back...but then if I really knew what was going on I wouldn't be here asking your advice .

-adam

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'84 300D Turbo Diesel
San Jose, CA

I have the same problem in my W124. Initially I could start on a downslope or even surface on "P", but not on a upslope. Then after a while it will only start on neutal on any gradient. This maybe the start of your safety neutral switch acting up. In my car, I do not have the starter noise you mentioned, so yours maybe something else.

Yeah, mine sounds like the starter is smacking into the flywheel but not engaging the teeth so the engine doesn't turn. I would expect the neutral start switch would keep the starter from trying to engage. Of course I have been wrong before...
Also, I backed the car in once so it was headed downhill and had the same problem. I suppose I should double check and make sure the starter is attached securely. If the bolts are loose it could be tipping. I didn't notice anything like that, but didn't actually check it physically. Then I would feel good and stupid, but it would be an easy fix! If it wasn't raining I would go check it now.

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'84 300D Turbo Diesel
San Jose, CA

i am no mechanic-- far from it, actually.

this may sound shocking but i'll give it a try....

engage the parking brake before the car rolls back!

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