when i push the cd button on my control unit. it doesn't give me any error messages or anything. the changer unit in the trunk will eject the catridge and appear to load it correctly, but will not show up on the control panel.

i have a 98 E320 with the factory installed CHM-S630 Alpine changer in the trunk. All other functions such as Radio/Cassette/WB are functioning correctly.


any ideas or assistance would be greatly appreciated!!

 

There is obviously power going to the changer, so I would first check the connections (wires/plugs) between the changer and the head unit. It sounds like the head unit is no longer "seeing" the changer as part of the loop.

 

Thanks! I need to figure out how to pop out the head unit and track the wiring from there.

Off to do more searching!!

 

The head unit pops out with a set of Euro radio keys (i think you can get them at autozone, Mine were supplied to me from my work) Very easy and simple once you have the keys.

Another thing, you said you had a stock alpine cd changer? MB never had anyone do their stock radios except Bose (on the W210). I'm guessing if you have the Alpine, you have a MB adapter so you can use the after market CD changer with your stock radio.

Let me know if you have any questions about it, i have a lot of tips.

 

I don't know when they started using them, but some of the OEM Mercedes trunk-mounted CD changers were definitely made by Alpine but modified by M-B due to the fiberoptics in the cars.

Just guessing, but I think I would start tracing the wiring from the trunk forward. It stands to reason that there is a greater chance of vibrational or shock damage in the trunk than in the passenger compartment.

Also, if you see an orange wire, be very careful. That is your fiberoptic cable and they break pretty easily.

 

Thanks guys. Just ordered the radio removal tools. We'll start to trace this thing down over the weekend.

 

You're very welcome and good luck!

 

I suspect the adapter has come disconnected in the trunk. It's happened to me a couple times. Sometimes you have to jiggle the cable.

 

my 98 does not have the fiber optic connector

 

I guess I forgot when they converted to the fiberoptic connections. Thanks for the info illest.

 

went to mess with it some today; and now it isn't getting power to the cd player and won't eject the cartridge or anything. wtf!?!?

looks like all the wiring in the trunk is still connected.