My drivers-side dash speaker works intermitently. Usually is isn't working, but if I crank the volume it jumps to life most of the time. Wondered if this was common and if there was a chance that changing out the fader control the console could possibly remedy the problem. Thanx for your suggestions.

Scott
'72 280 SEL 4.5 247k
'91 300e 92k

It "sounds" like a loose wire/ground. Did you check the connections to the speaker?
You can also take the speaker out and connect it to a good sound source, at least, that will rule out the speaker.
Good luck!
J.H.
86 300e

Thanx JH....actually no, I haven't checked the connection yet. I don't know if the grille pops off or I have to get to it from underneath. Sounded like the same kind of problem to me, I was just hopeing that spilled coffee in the console by a previous would b a more likely culprit and easier to get to and fix. Can you tell me if the grille lifts off and how to do it?

Thanx,

Scott

Scott, the grille does pop off. Need to get a thin, wide tool (putty knife) and start it out on the side that is closest to the center of the dash. You need to be patient and careful with this task. But.., if your fader has been doused with coffee, that's the most likey culprit. Goes for between $20.00 and $28.00 depending where you get it (check the parts shop here). Remove the center wood panel and pop the fader out. Reverse to reassemble.


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Jeff Lawrence
1987 300e
1989 300e
2000 Dodge Grand Caravan SE

Thank you for the advice. Very glad to know that it does pop out. The only thing that is faulty about the fader is that you would think that if that were the problem, that it would effect both of the front speakers in the same way. Have heard that popping the wood console is adelicate job too. Anyway...will pop the grille and see what the connection looks like.

Thanx again,



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Scott

'91 300E 91k
Black Pearl/Gray
Eurolights/clear corners
AMG style wheels

'72 280 SEL 4.5 247k
Navy over Silver

Scott, the wood is really not that hard to remove. Lift the carpet insert in the console well. You will see a screw (phillips) at the base of the wood panel. Unscrew and remove. Remove the black plastic surround from the shift console (pry it up with a small screwdriver). Put the shifter in neutral and from the back edge, gently lift the wood trim upward. If the window switches or rear window lockout switch stick to the wood, gently push them back towards the console. I really think your fader is messed up. Mine was intermittent after a beverage spill. I tried to clean it out. Sound was intermittent and scratchy no matter what. Replaced the fader. Problem solved.. My approach to life is to eliminate the simple stuff first. Even if the fader is not messed up, with coffee in there, it will get worse. If you wanted to experiment, dribble some WD-40 in around the fader wheel and run it back and forth a few times. I'll bet the sound will get better..

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Jeff Lawrence
1987 300e
1989 300e
2000 Dodge Grand Caravan SE

Thanx again. I will try your experiment. Have removed the carpet and will take a crack at it. My philosophy is much more simple...I'm lazy...so going after the fader wheel is the path of least resistance. Thanx again.

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Scott

'91 300E 91k
Black Pearl/Gray
Eurolights/clear corners
AMG style wheels

'72 280 SEL 4.5 247k
Navy over Silver