[W126 Coupe] 380 died :-(

[dick.spellman@gmail.com]

Nice write up Ferry.  I'd be checking the coil and then following the logic flow you offered too.

Dick Spellman


----- Reply message -----
From: "Gerry Van Zandt" <gerryvz at me.com>
To: <mbcoupes at mbcoupes.com>
Subject: [W126 Coupe] 380 died  :-(
Date: Sat, Nov 5, 2011 2:00 pm
There are very few things that would make a running engine die:  ignition control box, dead coil, etc.
First of all, the basics.  Did you check your fuses? ALL of your fuses?  Turn each of them in their fuse holders at least 360 degrees?
Did any lights light up on your dash (ABS, Battery lamp, etc.) just prior to when the car conked out?  Usually when your dash lights light up like a Christmas tree, then you know your alternator has died and you're running off the battery (and you can usually go for quite some time on the battery as long as you turn off your lights, radio, etc.).  The OVP is another culprit here.
But I don't think any of that is your problem.  I'd check your ignition control box. To me, that's the most logical culprit.  Then your coil.
With regard to not starting, also check your neutral safety switch - it sits between the battery and starter and controls the flow of electricity to the starter.  Often times when it's failing it will allow you to start when in Neutral, but not in Park.
Good luck!
Cheers,Gerry


On Nov 5, 2011, at 11:15 AM, mbcoupes-request at mbcoupes.com wrote:

My 380SEC died as I was driving home yesterday afternoon (fortunately, I 
could pull off the road, AND I was within walking distance of home ).  
Preliminary investigation suggests electrical and/or starter motor - 
when I turn the ignition key, I here a series of clicks, but nothing 
further.  We checked the battery with a voltmeter - full charge, drops 
slightly when the ignition is turned.

Any ideas?

Cheers,

Ingrid
Cooma, Australia
380SEC
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