1990 500 sl / starter & soft top slow

[dangill]

Hi!

I could use a little tech help for two problems.

1) turning ignition key occasionally will not engage starter. at least once it
appeared that moving shift lever helped. tonite only repeated key
attempts (6 or 7) finally engaged starter. I have WIS cd but can't make
any sense of it.

2) the rear deck lid opens very slowly. all other operations appear normal.
any thoughts ?

After purchase last fall I had MB service check out car lube, oil, safety,
and codes. There were no problems. They told me car had a service record in their system but refused my request for a copy. Is there a service where a
copy of this record could be purchased?

Thank You in advance for any and all replys !
dan gill

[chad500sl]

For this year, it appears to be fairly common for either the iginition key or the shift lock switch to fail. I've heard than of the two, the shift switch is much easier to replace. On mine, I had the ignition key go. Sounds like you might just need to replace the transmission lock neutral switch.

I'm having the exact same problem with my 1990 soft top. I'd be interested in hearing the fix. Mine just started the slow deck openning this summer. I guess it probably deserves a little care after 15 years.

[LeaUK]

Ignition

I know this sounds strange but does moving your steering column up/down/in/out whilst holding the ignition key in start position suddenly start the vehicle?

If so, it's exactly the same same intermittent fault as mine! I didn't believe that this trick would work before I tried it, but it does. The fault is the ignition barrel switch. I suspect as the column moves it drags the ignition cable and subsequently makes contact and engages the starter motor.

The ignition switch is a two part assembly comprising both a mechanical key identification barrel and an electrical switching barrel. The electrical unit can be replaced separately and is around 50GBP - so not too bad...

I've yet to change mine as it only fails once every 3 or so months and I know a steering wheel 'wiggle' gets me out of trouble until the next time!

Soft Top

Maybe worth checking your hydraulic fluid level. Lift out the spare wheel and read off the level.

Hope this helps.

Lea

[elau]

It may not be the cause, but have you checked your battery? I would check the battery first, an old battery works much harder in hot temperature and thus causing your hard start and weak top movement. Before I replaced my OEM battery, my top opened very slow if the engine was not running. But it opened nicely when the engine was running. Just my .02.

[bobterry99]

Starter problem: this is a very simple circuit to troubleshoot. The interlock with the alarm system had not yet been introduced.

I suggest locating the X26/12 connector below the radio and separating it for testing with a basic multimeter. I presently have the radio and wooden console removed from a car and can email photos to you if you contact me.

Socket #5 on the female connector should have battery voltage when you turn the key to start. Next measure resistance between 5 and 6 on the male side of the connector. You should measure a short circuit. Failure of the first test suggests a bad ignition switch, while failure of the second suggests a faulty neutral-safety switch.

Convertible top: you may have a leak in one or both hydraulic cylinders which move the compartment cover (rear deck). If you remove the panel at the back of the trunk you will have a clear view of each cylinder and can check for leaks.

[dangill]

Thank you for all your replys.

I was delayed in responding because I just returned from
vacation in Scotland tonite and am doing some catchup.
Believe it or not, it would have been a perfect driving trip
in the convertible with the TOP DOWN. It didn't rain for 10
full days.

I will check the fluid level this weekend.

I would be suprised if the battery is guilty since it is a new one
although (non MB) and I always close and open the top with
the engine running.

The slooooow top opening did begin with the much warmer
weather about a month or so ago.

bobterry99
Were you referring to removal of the crumple panel between the
trunk and " rear seat" area. The one with all the bolts?

Thanks again,
dan gill