Merc A class starter change

Engine is on a 45 degree tilt. Starter motor is wedged between the engine and the floorpan. You can't actually even get to it with your fingers. You can't even get in to check the wiring so unless you can bypass the inhibit switch you'd need to drop it just to check whether it's an inhibit switch issue.

The engine has to be dropped down to allow access. Basically it's done as a whole with the front axle carrier. Everywhere I've looked has it down as a 4 hour job.

If it's done 70-80,000 miles, the ring gear needs checking as well.

So I'm afraid the Merc Dealer is correct.

Just as a guess - most inhibit switches work via a relay. Can that be heard to click when the starter is operated?

It certainly needs some accurate fault finding before going to the lengths of replacing the starter motor.

Thanks Conor, that's a very helpful reply.

The car is in good nick for its age because being a Merc it's fairly well screwed together and it only does a few miles a year. I'm thinking it may be worth the expense of a new starter because (as was covered in a previous thread) a couple of grand on a newer second hand car could easily buy you just as much trouble!

Julian.

it is a 4 hour job as listed in autodata, certainly garages charge around

Over rated crap are Mercs'

Probably just like your use of the English language - you don't need that possessive apostrophe. Now run along like a good little boy and watch the F1 qualifying....

Julian.

Thanks, it's not a job I can tackle easily without some decent equipment like a lift. I'm 90 miles away from her. (luckily!)

If you are close to Kendal then you've got a job on Monday if you fancy it?

Julian.

A lift would be almost essential to avoid the screaming abdabs. I wish I was close to Kendal, it is lovely up there, unfortunately I am still in Essex.

Oh dear did I upset a crap Merc' owner?

No, just everyone who went to school and passed English O level.

:-)

Chris

Top post ! :)

Starters on these is relatively common. The heat from the engine being sandwiched inbetween the floorpan / bulkhead does them no favours.

Yes I have changed one. No, I would not like to do it again..!

Disconnect and remove the exhaust system (in itself often a problem, and you need to refit a new one...) then drop the subframe at the rear, along with the steering rack etc, as far as it will come. I used a small bottle jack to 'help' it abit further.

Then using a 3/8 socket set, some long extensions, most of your tool box contents, copious language, and ALL of your knuckle skin, you swap out the motor.

If I were you....scrap it though! ;)

Tim.

The Lakes are lovely in summer - difficult to imagine any place that's better. However winters are long, cold, wet and windy. I'd far sooner spend the winter months in Essex if I had the option!

Julian.

Shame you missed lessons then eh?

Priceless. If you're going to have a go, at least get it correct.

As he probably did GCSE, that'll be counted as a pass.