It sounds to me that you have a little of both. It takes a good charge even on the big diesel battery to kick start these Mercedes on a cold day. Battery clamps must be clean and tight and no oxidation around the terminal. Secondly, after cranking up a cold engine, makes sure you drive far enough to recharge it. I would figure a 20 minute run basically sufficient, but if in doubt put the charger on it. Usuall the charger has an amp guage. If it readily will take 20/30 amps, it is low. If it only takes 2 or 3 amps it is pretty full. If your hubby has to beat on the solenoid you either have a sticking solenoid or bad connections down there or both. It is a tough place to work, car has to be on ramps for most people, but those cables do need attention now and then.

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Junqueyardjim
Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important. C.S. Lewis



1983 Mercedes W123 240D 4 Speed 285,000 on the road with a 617 turbo, beautiful butter yellow, license plate # 83 240D INDIANA

2003 Jaguar Type X, AWD. beautiful, good mileage,
Mom's car, but I won't let her drive it!