SL/R129: New R129 Owner - killed it already
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Havana, FL
94SL320 91AlfaRomeoSpider 2000GMCSierra
New R129 Owner - killed it already
I finally did it. Bought a 94 SL320 115,000 miles clean. Needs ball joints and strut mounts. So I drove it home scoured the forums ordered the MB spring compressor and patiently waited. The spring tool came in, so time to pull it into my shop. Wont start - go to the forum. Bad engine wire harness, common problem I find out. Wire going to starter solenoid striped of insulation. No problem jump solenoid start car. OK. Turned on headlights. Very Bad. Let the smoke out of the harness going to headlight switch. Well, I am about to become a MB wiring expert. All I could do is laugh. 
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 598
Likes: 19
From: Eastern Kansas
94 SL 600, 98 993, 89 XJS Conv., 85 Daimlier Princess 16 Hybrid Lincoln 16 Chevy crewcab
Welcome to our "world" both forums are filled with DIY attempts that are almost always fruitful.
The wiring harness problem was mostly 500, 600 engine issues, however time is always a factor, and the excellent photos are not the wiring insulation breakdown my harnesses had.
When I get an "old" new toy I search out the under pressure wiring, including; foot/ seat bays, in isolated compartments, not shielded bends in open wiring areas of engine.
I also replace rubber protective covers and stops for hinged parts.
I use silicone spray or paste to lubricate cables. I have replaced light and key ignition switches because stuff just wears out! and electricity and its heat can move the change faster.
The small engine benz will have a special market so good luck on your build!
Where in the world are you?
The wiring harness problem was mostly 500, 600 engine issues, however time is always a factor, and the excellent photos are not the wiring insulation breakdown my harnesses had.
When I get an "old" new toy I search out the under pressure wiring, including; foot/ seat bays, in isolated compartments, not shielded bends in open wiring areas of engine.
I also replace rubber protective covers and stops for hinged parts.
I use silicone spray or paste to lubricate cables. I have replaced light and key ignition switches because stuff just wears out! and electricity and its heat can move the change faster.
The small engine benz will have a special market so good luck on your build!
Where in the world are you?
Thread Starter
Newbie
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Havana, FL
94SL320 91AlfaRomeoSpider 2000GMCSierra
Update. Rewired from fuse box to new used headlight switch. The inside of the original switch deteriorated the plastic fell apart and the springs and ball bearings shorted the the whole thing. What a PITA. I'm glad I took the hood off, still could have used a little more space. Now if I can just get the central locking to work properly and start rebuilding the top cylinders I just may have a fun car for spring. Strut mounts and ball joints....DONE!!! Havana, Florida
