1985 OM617 Rack Damper Bolt Debacle - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Rmagoon1990 · #1 05-01-2022, 10:02 PM

Hi All,

I've finally started the hunt to narrow down culprits for engine shaking at hot temperatures on my 1985 300CD. Fiddled with the idle speed yesterday (after replacing motor mounts 1+ year ago) and had some success, but went to tinker with the rack damper bolt this afternoon and had a bit of a fiasco.

I adjusted (i.e. loosened) the bolt, then drove it for 10+ min to warm up the engine. Ran an errand, and when I started up again there was a slight stutter. I came back home, turned the car off, and then restarted it, and all I got was a clicking sound.

Long story short, I've been having to jump start the car multiple times this afternooon since tinkering with the damper bolt, even after driving it 30+ min to recharge the battery. (Note: Both the alternator and the battery were replaced within the last 4 months).

I know that over-tightening this bolt can make it difficult to start the car, but would you still hear a cranking noise? Just trying to figure out if this is a separate issue which popped up by coincidence, or if there's a relationship. If so, I'm assuming it's time to replace the bolt?

Any comments would help, thanks!!

-RJ

MB140300SD · #2 05-01-2022, 10:49 PM

The rack damper bolt would have nothing to do with needing to jump start the car. Yes if you over adjust the bolt it will be hard to start, but it would still turn over and not require a jump.

JHZR2 · #3 05-01-2022, 11:40 PM

You need to measure voltages so we know what is going on. Even if harder to start was the case, this sounds like a whole other level. How much did you screw in the bolt?

My bet is on bad charging system or battery.

Rmagoon1990 · #4 05-02-2022, 12:50 AM

Thanks, yes I think it may have been pure coincidence. It looks like my battery needs some TLC....I've been prepping the car for paint for the past two months and haven't been getting it out on the road enough. Lesson learned!