Ive had a good search trying to find a solenoid solution for my W123, and I have to admit my incredulity at some of the other things that go wrong on these old beasts.

I've got a Euro-spec W123 (seeing as I live in Poland!) with no vacuum options, no electric locks, windows or sunroof; no cruise control, no air-con; the mandatory manual gearbox (there's no way in hell you'll get me driving an automatic) and the most basic 4-cyl 1983cc diesel engine!

With just a little under 200k miles on the clock (320k km) she still pulls well; I just cant help but feel a little sorry for all those with the "extra trimmings" that, when broken, detract attention away from the fact that this is one of the most wonderful cars ever to leave Germany.

I believe all W123s have vacuum locks. Check the firewall for loose/unused yellow vacuum tubes.

Do you have a 200D? please post pictures.

There's plenty of pics here:

http://richsvehicles.fotopic.net/c758776.html

for anyone who wants to peruse. As you can see from the dates on the photos, she's been parked up since February (surviving Polands -25*C winters admirably though, as a post-thaw 500mile drive proved) as I picked up a daily driver thats easier to park in Warsaw (A 1982 Audi Coupe, for anyone interested.)

The problem now is that she wont start. Healthy battery, glowplugs drawing volts, but the solenoid won't even click (although it reads 12V from the small cable on the starter to the solenoid, and the starter spins when you short it.) After that, Im not too good with the electrical side of things.

Nice photos. It is always good to see the basic model of the W123. Your engine compartment is unrecognizable compared to the typical US W123.

If the starter is spinning but the solenoid is not tripping than it must be the solenoid. I have seen Bosch solenoids go bad. You can test it once you get the starter out of the car. Maybe it is just rusted together. If not, a solenoid should not be too expensive. Also look at the cold cranking amps of your battery and make sure it is strong enough.

Good Luck.

__________________
Doug

1987 300TD x 3
2005 E320CDI