W124 #3 fuse keeps blowing 86 300E
 

Number three fuse controls passenger side running (2 side marker and one tail) lamps, headlamp cleaning unit, license plate light, instrument, control elements - which I think should read as "instrument control elements. License plate lights are not working. It seems like when I replace the fuse, the lights work until I turn the lights off and when I turn them on again it is dead. Anyone have any suggestions.

Check the license plate/trunk light wiring where it enters the trunk lid's hollow hinge on the driver's side, the wire/s usually break right at the edge of the opening.

Sounds like a good place to start
 

Thanks Billybob. I will do that in the morning

i'm betting the lh wiper for the headlight has quit. pull the headlight and unplug the wiper motor. just went thru this on a 92 400e. good luck, chuck.