'64 220SE Coupe starter won't engage

[bobterry99]

The transmission is automatic. Is there a neutral safety switch somewhere? Acutally, I suspect the ignition switch. Can someone explain how to remove it? I left my Haynes manual in another state!

Bob Terry
1964 220SE
1969 280SL Automatic
1969 280SL 4-Speed

[ctaylor738]

Have you checked the obvious - like is the starter lead showing voltage when the key is turned? I would hate to see you go to all the trouble of replacing your ignition switch if the problem was the starter or solenoid.

[bobterry99]

Problem is definitely wiring, a neutral safety switch if there is one, or the ignition switch. I know this because I hot-wired the starter circuit to the battery and car starts.

[cth350]

The neutral safety switch wiring should be connected to a plastic switch on the fire wall. Look for the brown box with a bowden wire comming off of it to the tranny. This switch also activates the reverse lights.

As for the ignition switch, it's "easy" to describe. A pain to do...

1. Disconnect Battery.
2. Turn key to position #1.
3. Remove bezel from around the key.
4. Put the key back in to position #1 (so wheel can turn).
5. Remove instrument cluster (yuck).
Watch very carefully for oil line to pressure guage and
capilary tube to engine thermometer. Break/kink that tube
and say goodbye guage.
Don't even think of trying to start car with oil line
for guage removed. You will wear a cup of oil in 2 seconds.
6. Unscrew the big metal clamp holding down the lock.
7. Find the little button at the base of the lock that is
extending into the body of the steering column.
It's there, really. Now, push it in (the key is still
turned, right?)
8. Wiggle the lock and pull it out far enough to get the
button past the hole in the column. Try not to damage your
dash wood.
9. Remove the key.
10. Remove the lock.
11. Notice that standing on your head, you could play with
the wires w/o removing the lock.

Be sure to remove the lock w/ the battery disconnected. One short to ground and goodbye wire harness.


-CTH