1981 380SL window power

[Rich's380SL]

I have lost power to both windows in my 1981 380SL, jumping with a hot wire to the window switch both windows will operate normally. Where is the window power relay located, which I am assuming has failed?

[rowdie]

Above the fuse block. I don't know which one it is. Might check the fuses too and clean the contacts.

[coleyjf]

Originally Posted by Rich's380SL

I have lost power to both windows in my 1981 380SL, jumping with a hot wire to the window switch both windows will operate normally. Where is the window power relay located, which I am assuming has failed?

I'd guess a fuse rather than the relay - the original aluminium fuses can test OK BUT don't very often make good contact (Aluminium oxide is an insulator I believe) - especially if they've ever got wet. They also can deposit a similar coating on the contacts which hold the fuses causing a disconnect. Normal "contact cleaner doesn't seem to shift it so a certain amount of "abrasion" is needed .

Quick and simply option is to rotate the fuses a few times to improve the electrical contact - best option is to replace ALL the fuses with copper ones ( available from PeachParts I believe if you're "over there rather than "over here" ).

Cheers


Jim

[ewenjo]

I had the same problem with my 380SL. It was the relay in the panel above the fuse box passengerside. If I recall there are similar relays in the panel so you can pull one from the other circuits and plug it in the window slot as a verification.