Picked up a non-running 300DT. Fired right up once I removed the ignition housing and started it with a screw driver. Car would not start in P, only in N. Drives like a dream and shifts just fine.

I am waiting for a new voltage regulator (my 300CD borrowed the one on this car) so that I can get her up and ramps and take a look at what is making this noise when I shift the car. Here is a video with the sound : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vk1_eNU6PsU.

Anyone know just by sound if that is the natural safety switch or the shift bushings? Or both? I'm going to order the neutral safety switch as I'm pretty sure that is why she won't start in P, but wondering if the bushings need help too? Thanks in advance to anyone that knows.

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2002 E430 gasser 60k
1982 300CD 175k - SOLD
1982 300TD Wagon 175k - SOLD
1981 300D - SOLD

2004 Honda Element
2007 Nissan Titan

if she won't start in p, but will in N, I'd focus on the shifter bushings.

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My drivers:
1987 190D 2.5Turbo
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1987 300TD
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Hi there...
It actually sounds like a defective starter!
I have experienced the same exact problem a while ago and I ended up having to refurbish the whole starter and also replacing the ground cable from the starter to the frame!!
Both needed to be repaired.
Keep us posted.
Cheers
Big Dan
Surfers Paradise Australia

P.S
Have a look at my older threads and look for a *starter problem*

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Big Dan MEng

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VSTECH is probably correct. In any case, if you're going under the car to replace the neutral shutoff switch, I would replace the bushings as a matter of course. They're cheap. Get new retaining clips, too.

The rear bushing is easiest to replace from above. You'll have to take the console out and remove the shifter assembly, however. The front bushing is a pain without lowering the transmission by dropping the trans mount.