[Guest (MBNZ)]

i have an 81 300td with a strange starting problem. sometimes the key switch energizes the starter, sometimes it will not. the starter may turn over on the first try or the 20th try, using the key. a hotwire from the starter to the battery always turns it over. the battery is good. i replaced the neutral safety switch. i have tried several different starter switches, and the problem persists with each of them. <br> <br> anyone have any ideas? thanks

 

[Guest (MBNZ)]

I'd guess the starter switch operates a solenoid which operates the starter. So I'd be looking for a faulty solenoid, or maybe a poor earth connection in the starter switch.