1985 300cd with a huge short in circuit #2
 

Hello all, this is my first post and I am hoping someone may be able to help me. I am working on my father-in-law's 300cd and have traced a short to the #2 circuit. I am curious if there are any known common failures or shorts in this circuit. The circuit contains:
clock, trunk light, roof lights, diagnostic, switch-over valve seat back arrestor, hazard warning system, auto antenna, illum. vanity mirror, warning monitor term. #5, (electronic radio)

The only things I can tell that have been done to this fine car is a kenwood stereo was put in, but I think this problem is more recent than that.
Also, what is a "switch-over valve seat back arrester"?

Thank you

No routine problems with the electrics that I've heard of. All I can think about the seat back arrester, is the seat backs will lock into position at some point, don't know if it's when the engine is running, or if the transmission is in gear, or what.

#2 is what group again?

Antenna motor is notorious for sticking on trying to perpetually lower the antenna. Pull the wire from it in the trunk and see if that's your problem.

hey thanks
 

Thanks guys, I tried unplugging the antenna, the connector under the front of the drivers seat, nothing so far, still have huge power draw. I am working on this all day and shall return periodically. I think I am next going to cut out the stereo install someone did and see if some how it is in that, I need to give Benz some props and assume it is in there somewhere. Just doesn't seem like it could be because i have it's plug removed from the back of the radio but who knows.

Thanks

Thanks again
 

Well I went through the entire interior and unplugged and replugged most of the electrical connections. It wasn't the radio but it was something else. It is no longer happening but I do get an audible click from the door courtesy lighting system which is kind of flaky to begin with. So I think either it was a corroded plug somewhere or it is the interior lighting and it just hasn't happened again yet. Now to adjust the valves and change the oil and then this 85 300CD is being sold.
Thanks Again

make sure the trunk light wires aren't touching the body. this has happened to me.

Yeah thanks, that was one of the first things I looked into while I was going through the entire trunk. I feel I know these cars a lot better now, too bad I can't buy it.

Where are you at? price?

Not too sure about the price. 135K miles, new tires, shocks, floor mats.. uh, white with euro lights, California model. I should write down everything I can think of about it cause I am drawing a blank now. There is some fading on the top of the rear seat and a little dent on the passenger door trim line. I was thinking NADA average retail but what that siemensrudy guy is getting for worse (recent one) on ebay makes me think that is too little. I would buy it if I could afford it but I do have a 124 300TD I like and want to keep in top shape. I haven't tested the market here yet.