My '84 500 sel cut out today and would not restart. I jumped the #7 and #8 terminals( fuel pump relay) in the fuse box with a paper clip and I was able to get home. Of course, the fuel pump continues to run until I remove the paperclip. My question is this: Will this do any damage to the engine(flooding, etc.) until I figure out if it is the relay itself or whatever makes the relay switch on those two terminals? It takes me an additional minute to remove the jumper after I shut off the engine. Also, how would you check this circuit to determine if it is the relay or not? I replaced the relay with a used one of questionable value. I still had to jump it to get home. Naturally, it is Friday night and Phil the parts guy is gone til Monday am!!

No, it won't do any damage, only problem is that it could be a bit dangerous if a fuel line should start leaking or if you are involved in an accident.

It would be better to bring some temporary wiring inside the car so you can cut it off faster - you certainly don't want to be working under the bonnet while the engine's on fire!

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Mick J
'08 Chrysler 300CRD (MB OM 642 engine)
'95 E220 estate
'89 230TE (R.I.P.)