QuestionQUESTION: I have a 1980 280 sl that won't start unless I run a wire from + battery to + coil. Then it fires right up and runs fine. I'm also having trouble with the turn signals, they aren't working. Please offer any suggestions you can so I can fix it.
ANSWER: sounds like a bad wire from battery you need to trace it and find the break/short, also check balast resistor that is connected to coil ( on fender well)
Turn signals are tied into 4 way flasher , do those work? If they do probably a short or bad lever, once again , really just need a meter and check to see where you loose power. If the flasher do not work, try cleaning 4 way hazard switch
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QUESTION: Ron would that be the 3 to 4 inch long porcelain resistor? (it is cracked,good call!)it is about 8 inches away from coil on the other side of the ignition control unit.It does shut of by the key,or if i pull my bypass wire. So you do not think it would be the control unit? being a Euro 1980 280sl where might i find a resistor cheep?lol.It does appear my flashers work, where else should i check? Ron again,Thanks from all of us for your experience,time and effort! You are a Great help! Dave
Answeryes that is it , could still be ICU but I would change out the resistor. Is is white or blue. I have several white ones I could send you one for a nominal fee, are you in the states?
If your flashers work ( perfectly ) but the signals dont then its probably a problem in the stalk connexions on the steering wheel...... small wires held in place with phillips screws. Have seen on earlier models where signal contacts need cleaning with pencil eraser. Electric parts cleaner is good stuff that can help. Since they are all out I still suspect that 4 way flasher switch , they can be taken out and cleaned , if it feels "gummy" it may be the issue.
You could also pull the stalk and see if you are getting 12V to the stalk. I assume you checked the fuses
