I have gone through 3 switches in the last two weeks. One of those two switches shows some slight "melting" around pin #15 on the actual switch itself. On the switch plug I have noticed that around one of the #30 connectors there appears to be some melting. Not much but some. The original MB switch will operate everything in the car but will not allow the car to start (no engagement of the starter). The other two switches, one of which has the melting around pin #15, won't do anything anymore. All I own is a test light. If I owned a meter it wouldn't do me any good because I do not understand how to read one.

I know that anything is possible BUT could this be the solenoid on the starter burning up these switches. Please don't laugh at me. I really don't know where to even begin on this issue. Electronics are just not my thing.

Thanks!

Kevin

Does this help?

Attached Files

82_240.pdf (195.6 KB, 162 views)

__________________
82 300SD 202K
82 300SD 233K
83 300TD 340K
82 300TD 98k euro (parts on the hoof)
85 300TD 282K
83 300TD 197K

While I can't honestly say that I understand the diagram completely it does give me some points of reference. I do have a member in the church I pastor that can read "electronese". This diagram will be a big help to him.

Thanks again!
Kevin

This situation has passed the area of trying this and that. I suspect someone is going to have to use a meter to find out where the heavy current is going.

Although I thought one of the fuses should have blown before the ignition switches melted. Check the indicated fuses in the wiring diagram the member kindly provided. You are looking for a fuse with aluminum foil on it. A bridged fuse by some other method or a really high value fuse someone put into a circuit. The proper values of the fuses are posted on the schematic as well.

Finding anything like mentioned helps to indicate where the problem may be. At least it is an older car with easier electrics than many nowdays as well. Since the solinoid works it is not shorted out. Although I suppose it could have an intermittent short. I would tend to look elsewhere first. Yes you need direct on the scene help I suspect or a good garage.

After familiarizing myself with the diagram that was so generously provided (much thanks!) I was able to determine that the solenoid on the starter is flakey. I am not looking forward to wrangling the starter out from where it is. It's easy enough to get to but gonna be tight trying to get it out from there. Oh the joys of a MB. I love'em!!!