I have a 1978 240 D that will not crank over at all. The car was running fine. I pulled up in the driveway and turned it off. When I got back in to start the car, nothing.

The glow plug light comes on as normal. I tried shifting from park to neutral. Still nothing. The lights works. Radio works. It just won't crank.

The reverse is out of the transmission and has been for quite some time. I don't think that has a thing to do with it, though. Any leads on an automatic transmission for a 1978 240 D ?

I have drove this car everywhere with no problems. I must be missing something here. Suggestions ????

Thank you!
Fred

Btt

Fred, It sounds like something is out in the starter circuit. Especially if the lights do not dim when you move the key to the start position. I would first make sure you have 12 volts at the starters large terminal and bridge the small terminal to the large on the starter. That will identify if it is the starter/solinoid or something in the key activation circuit. Now if the lights dim when you go to the start position you might want to check your battery and connections especially the ground strap from your engine to chassis. It is basically just a process of elimination.

Sounds like a neutral safety switch, but i dont think my 75 240d has one, do you have that pita seat belt bs safety? Try opening the hood and checking the relay near the top right. There may be an emer. start switch there push it and try.