I tried to give a jumpstart to a neighbor. Connected both sets to both batteries. I turned the key and my car would not start even though the lights showed a full MB battery charge. Checked the fuses and moved them around and car started. (Told the guy to get a new battery by the way.)

A day later same nonsense. Same remedy. Tonite it only started when I moved the battery cables around.

The starter was replaced about a month ago (rebuilt).
Any ideas before I talk to the repair shop?
Thanks,

Juan

I would check all the cables and connections for proper contact and keep and eye on the overvoltage relay (OVP) behind the battery.

Thanks for the reply. I'll be doing that early in the AM.
Anything in particular with the OVP?

Yes,
If your Overvolt Relay is still 52-45 (last 4 digits, i think this is right.), then you should have it switched with the new one, 67-45. Do a search on this just to be safe. Do you know where the OVP is?

Also,
I have heard that jumpstarting someone in an MB can cause damage to the alternator (bushings maybe?), but is a relatively easy and inexpensive fix. I can't be sure though. Others will be able to shed some light I'm sure. Again, do a search on this.

The OVP relay plays no part in the starter operation. If the motor cranks but won't fire then the OVP relay is a possibility.

BTW David, the 52 45 and 67 45 OVP relays are for 93 on HFM-SFI systems. There are two more relays for the earlier cars and they all cause problems.

Also, viewing ones head lights is not a great way to tell about battery condition. If you view them while cranking they can tell a lot. If they go out while cranking the battery is not sufficient (or the circuit too poor). If they stay the same while trying to crank the starter is not being engaged. The headlights take about 8amps the starter about 150-250 (depending on gas or diesel 4cyl or V8 etc).

Stevebfl,
Of course!! I should have realized that. Duh.

300E failure to start
 

First, thanks to all you guys who gave me some opinions (and support really by answering).

I took the car to the mechanic who had changed the starter and the car started every time. They checked a few things and decided that the battery terminals maybe corroded (in the inside contact section) even though they looked cleanon the outside.

The batt. terms. were cleaned and two weeks went by and tonight the damn thing was in the hands of AAA according to my wife.

So tomorrow we'll have to either tow it MB or bring it home and deal with the mechanic.

I am beginning to suspect an ignition/key problem as the power is excellent but once you turn the key it won't even click.

The other possibility is that the re-built starter is faulty.

Again, thank guys.

Juan