Will not start, starter does not turn?

SCXJ

MEMBER
1972 MERCEDES BENZ 250SE
47,000 MILES

When turning the key, the starter will not engage. We replaced the starter, and the same thing occurred. We checked out the old starter when out of the car and it seems like it is okay, it spins when we jumper the solenoid to the B+ terminal. By putting a remote starter switch in, we are able to start the car and move it around.

Could it be an automatic transmission switch? Does it even have one? Haha

The 250se was the only option to choose but the vehicle is a MB 250 with a 2.8 straight six gasoline engine. I'm confident that you gentleman/gentlewomen will have a solution.

Thanks, SCXJ

5 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
43,047 POSTS

I would try cranking the engine over when in neutral. This helps illuminate the neutral safety switch, also this guide can help as well and show you how to test through the circuit to find the problem:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Please go over this guide and get back to us.

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Saturday, July 8th, 2023 AT 12:20 PM

SCXJ

MEMBER
9 POSTS

I have tried to start it in neutral and in park. This particular starter has 3 wires connected to it, the large battery type wire and 2 other wires with different size crimp on lugs for 2 different size screws. I assume this is so someone would not mix them up. One more thing is, one time only I pulled the key out and spun it around 180°, then reinserted it and the dash lights flickered. That only occurred once though. I went through the link but that didn't help much, thanks for sending it though.

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Saturday, July 8th, 2023 AT 5:49 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
43,047 POSTS

It sounds like the ignition switch is bad, but have you checked the battery condition? An auto parts store can do this for free. Also, do any of the wires respond to the ignition switch command?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

Please go over this guide and get back to us.

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Monday, July 10th, 2023 AT 9:36 AM

SCXJ

MEMBER
9 POSTS

It turns out the neutral safety switch bushing was missing, the shift linkage would not engage the switch causing a no cranking no start situation.
Thanks for the help.
SCXJ

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Saturday, July 22nd, 2023 AT 5:02 PM

KEN L