Where is the starter & ignition switch located on W140
 

Thanking everyone in advance for your help.

I have a 1993 400SEL (w140) that is very difficult to start in the mornings. I hear a hi-pitch whinning sound, but the iginiton won't engage. It usually takes 15-20 turns of the key before it starts.

Does anyone have any suggestion and can you tell me where the starter and ignition switch is located. (Pictures would be great!!)

Below you will find information on removal and replacement of the starter on W140.........................

Ground cable at battery
disconnect, connect.

Bolts (1)
unscrew, screw in.

Nut (2)
unscrew, screw on.

Shield (3), if present
remove, install.

Electric wiring (4 and 5) at starter (M1)
disconnect, connect.

Screws (6)
unscrew

Starter (M1)
take out from below, insert from below; when doing this, take off existing spacer disc(s) (8) and splash guard (7), if necessary, and fit on.

Thanks Rsmcmahon!

Based on your experience do you think that this could be my problem and do think that it is a DIYer.

Start doing what is easy and cheap. First check your battery, how old is it? Are the terminals clean, it is amazing how many problems are cured by making sure you are getting full battery power. If you disconect your battery you will need to re-enter your radio secret code again, so be sure you have that.


You might also check the starter pinion .. it might need greasing. .
Starter pinion symptoms can be turning the key, the starter intermittently will not crank the engine over, and can cause starter motor noise.

Please don't grease the pinion gear teeth. This will pick up dirt and cause problems with the pinion gear and/or the ring gear on the flywheel.

If the pinion assembly needs lubrication, do it on the shaft and the gear centre only.