Interesting Chris - I recently posted about a similar "finding" when my W123 300D window motor failed.

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/2956367-post16.html
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/2956911-post17.html

I had several spare motors, so didn't bother with fix, but you are right in that jumpering the bad Otter device should make the motor run. BUT, it seem it is the only protection in the circuit to stop the motor once it hits up or down stop. And I am sure most of us hold the button down for a fraction too long on occasion!

It would be a lot more convenient if a cct breaker could be located in an easy to get at location. But taking door cover off or console apart is not too much different.

This company seems to have low cost self resetting cct breakers

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Graham
85 300D,72 350SL, 98 E320, Outback 2.5