semandell

Our 95 E320 convertible has recently gotten hard to start -- but it DOES start. You turn the key and it click-click-click's like its dead, but if you hold the key turned, the then slowly starts cranking, and after about 5+ seconds of holding the key all the way over, starts up. Does this every time. Any ideas on what to start looking at? I don't think its the battery as it eventually starts every time. Think its the starter motor?

Thanks in advance,
Scott

E320

Wiring harness

semandell

The "dreaded" wiring harness I've heard about? How much $$ is this to fix? Can only the dealer realistically do this?

Ugh...

suginami

I'd check your 3 coil wires first before I changed the wiring harness. also replace the coil wire resistor ends.

Also check your fuel accumulator. You system might not be holding fuel pressure. I'd take it to an independent Mercedes mechanic and have him hook up a pressure gauge to the fuel system, and see if it holds pressure overnight.

Only after I checked the fuel pressure and replaced the coil wires and boots would I look at the engine wiring harness.

You can buy an engine wiring harness for about $550 and a good mechanic can replace one in 3 hours.

Last, are you using the original Bosch copper plugs, the non-resistor type? If not, put them in.

V12BIGBODY

hi my first guess would be the battery if not that then the starter.
always go the cheap fix first then if all else fails start looking at the big picture. how many miles on it?

Brian McL

Good chance it's the harness....if not, change it anyway!! 'cause it will be a problem someday....soon. Mercedes has extended the warranty on this to 150K miles. They supply the part and your dealer charges you the labour.....no more than 3 hours and THAT'S too much...but it's still a deal at 3 hours labour, but no more.
Good luck
Brian

Jackd

I would first check for corrosion on battery posts and starter connection. Also, check the battery ground on the engine.
Your problem is certianly not related to the fuel system
JackD