Recently, my 1982 300SD started discharging the battery. I had the starter and alternator rebuilt, to no avail. Then the buzzer and ignition light would work intermittently. Now, Only the glowplug light on the dash comes on. My turn signals don't work anymore, either. It's apparent there something amiss in the dash, but, can someone enlighten me as to the source of this malfunction and the cause?


Thanks in Advance,

Try the following links from this forum. They may give you the information you need:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?threadid=3931
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/showthread.php?threadid=9273

Also, Randy (WDurrance) gave a "Key Off" battery drain test procedures some time ago. However, searching this forum failed to find his post. From my note book, here is what he said:

"The most accurate way to test for a drain on the battery is with an ammeter set to read Milliamps. Normal readings vary depending on the car model and optional equipment, but its usually less than 100mA. There is a basic test (which was superceded by the Ammeter test) that can be done with a 12V test lamp. Connect the test lamp between the negative battery post and the negative cable. Touch the cable to the post for at least 15 seconds to reset the dome lamp timer and the central locking system pump. Then, with the test lamp connected, separate the cable from the post. The test lamp should not light up. If it does light, remove the fuses one at a time until the source of the draw is found. Some items (like the alternator) are not fused and may be unplugged to test. Note: This will not work on 129 Chassis and most later model cars. These may draw up to 400mA for an hour after the key has been turned off. The Ammeter test is by far the best and most accurate way to diagnose a battery drain. "

Good luck

David



[Edited by be459 on 06-06-2001 at 02:51 AM]