Dying starter motor? W115 240

[j-galap]

Hi folks,

Just in time for the cold and rain up here in the Pacific Northwest, my 1974 240D has developed a starting problem.

I'm thinking it's probably the starter motor but wanted to get folk's opinions before I start going ordering things!

The other day, the car really struggled to turn over and wouldn't start. It had been below freezing the night before so I had thought maybe the diesel was gelling. Later that day I tried to start the car (temperature was way warmer) and still had the same problem.

A jump start from the local towing company got it running, and the battery was tested, showing that it was less than perfect.

So, I just replaced the battery... and the car still struggled to start. Same slow/laboured turn over before eventually firing up.

To me, this sounds like the starter is on the way out. Is it likely to be anything else?

Thanks!