Mercedes: 1982 Mercedes 380SEC, fuel pump relay, field winding

Question
QUESTION: I'm looking at buying the car listed in the description.  According to the seller, the car has a 'no-start' condition.  I haven't looked at it yet, so I can't say whether it's a 'no-crank' or 'no-start'.  Anything I should be looking for, or looking at, before purchasing this car?

ANSWER: Rob,
There are so many causes of a no start condition. If it is a no crank, that that may be a starter of over voltage relay or ignition switch etc etc.
If is is a no start, it could be ignition switch, bad fuel pump(s), fuel filter, or fuel pump relay, bad ignition module, or if it is in cold climate it could be the cold start injector.
The data port has access to determine if the switch is providing power to the ignition. You would need to get the trouble shooting manual and subscribe to the Mercedes www.benzworld.com forums
I am still having problem with my 420 when it is cold. A very frustrating condition.
Good Luck
Let us know what you find out.
Robert

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: So, here's what I found out... the problem is a dead spot in the starter (put a jump pack on the battery, turn the key, solenoid clicks, starter does not engage).  So I'm probably looking at a new/reman starter.

Here's another doozy for you... The build date on the car (door tag) says that it was built in April of 1982.  BUT, the decklid badge states that it's a 560SEC (manufactured 1986-1991).  The engine DOES appear to be a 5.6L (huge airbox, engine fills the bay, I'll pull the engine code next time I look at it).  The doozy is that the decklid badge appears to never have been changed (no light spots, dark spots, residue of any kind around the badge on the decklid).  I am quite aware that Mercedes did not make many (read: any) 'factory freaks', but here it is, a 1982 proclaiming to be a 560SEC.  I'm scratching my head.  Any enlightenment?

Answer
Rob,
Yes, worn bearings can cause the armature to bind against field winding causing a high resistance at the brushes. It is important to get the bendix shims correct to allow for proper gear mesh with the flywheel.

Unless one of the id location has been replaced because of an accident, I do not have a clue about the difference. The Vehicle ID number includes the production date. You may be able to run the two different VID numbers on a web search and determine more.
Let us know what you determine.
Rob