380SL shaking & vibrating on idle
 

Just became the new owner of an '85 380SL (144K) - Seems to be in decent condition, except every once in a while it shakes & vibrates when idling. Other than that it runs nicely. Today it stalled at a red light. Hmmmm. Any thoughts on that? Hoping to take it in next week to a Mercedes mechanic who specializes in restoration MBs. Just thought I'd try this forum first to see if anyone has ever had that issue who may be able to shed some light. Thanks in advance for any info.

Chris

'85 Mercedes 380 SL

Can you be more precise on where the shaking and vibration is coming from? And does it change if you put the transmission into park or neutral?

What rpm's in your engine idling at in park once it is fully warmed up?

Welcome. A systemic approach is the best method with these ol gals. Start with the obvious. Broken vacuum lines poor fuel Ect. How much service has been done? Has it had a recent tune up?

Engine. Hubby took it out again today…..he said it seems worse. Actually stalled so much he said he barely got it home. (He was only a mile away from the house).
He's going to trailer it to the mechanic next week. (Fingers crossed). he was saying something about timing…..does that make sense?

Thank you for the welcome. I am glad I found this site- I have a feeling I am going to need to get "educated" about my new baby.

Hopefully will get some answers next week! :) Thanks for the responses!

Chris

Doubt it's timng but could be have the mechanic look at it but post to let us know what he found Perhaps even before getting the work done. Not many Kjet folks around but plenty here. Good luck.

Thanks meltedpanda- I'll post what they find here when it goes in for a diagnosis next week.
Peace!

Chris

So apparently there was a relay switch that had been "repaired" (and it looked like it was a bad job, maybe a DIY fix). The weather recently turned warm outside (just as we bought the car) and we were told that the repair of the wires "came apart" or "undone" causing the car to not want to run. Period. They said it's about a $700 fix, and they found a few other minor things that need to be repaired.

Other than that the guy told us the car is in great shape and we have a "gem". Paint is fab and couldn't find any rust. He said he'd have me back in action in a few weeks.

Feeling happy. :) I'll be happier when I get the car back and can drive it!!

Thanks for the input everyone!!

which relay? Not many I know of that cost 700$ unless he means trigger points?