Battery won't turn over the engine

[patbianchi]

All at once the battery on my 500 SL decided it couldn't turn over the engine?? Lights come on but turn the key all dark and resumes to lights on when I go off starter switch. Contacts on the battery are clean...Is the battery just done? How long do they last in California weather?

[tecqboy]

The battery may be OK. These vehicles have a reputation for draining the battery when you aren't looking. Sometimes the switch for the truck light goes bad and the light stays on and drains the battery, you just don't see it in there. Also, the motor on the radio antenna has been known to run contiuously, but you can usually hear it. The locking vacuum pump has been known to run often if there is a leak in the system. Best way to know if the battery is bad is to have it tested with a load meter. Any store which sells auto batteries will have one, but be sceptical, they sell batteries for a living. In my experience a quality battery should last 5 to 6 years an any climate.

[patbianchi]

Got a new battery in it. Tried to start it starter engages but engine won't turn over...did it often enough that smoke came up by the starter motor...not good. Can't imagine the engine seized any clues our there can the starter motor get jammed in the flywheel or the starter motor jam??

[5280BENZ]

My friend had a similar problem. It turned out to be a seized bearing in the alternator that prevented the engine from turning over. Can you loosen or remove the belt and try a restart?

[patbianchi]

I never herd of that but I am sure it happens? Just got AAA to put it on the flat bed and sent it to my MB mechanic?? I will let you know.

Thanks

[patbianchi]

So far no answer, engine is locked up. Pulling the valve covers off? the saga continues.