[/align]My 96 E300 failed to startthe first time a week ago today...when I turned the key topre heat then turn the ignition, nothing...no crank at all..it did not even make a sound but started after the second try....then it happened again this PM..this time it took me 3 times before itstarted. Could there be something loose in my connection? what could be going bad??? Isthere an ignition sensor that is going bad? any help is appreciate.[/align]thanks,[/align]Bob[/align]
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from reading various posts on different forums, the K-40 relay seems to be the prime suspect when it comes to electrical issues, and may be worth looking at. The price for a new one from various parts suppliers is around $80. The other cause may be a faulty ignition lock, which might be a more expensive avenue to go, and would require parts that only the dealer could provide.

Good luck!!

 

Thanks Al(pimpernell) for the post. where exactly is the K-40 located? I will try to tap it when it happens again ...just want to make sure this is the bad partbefore replacing it. thanks again.
bob

 

number 56 in the diagram is the K-40 relay, and it is located in the black enclosure which is in the left passanger side of the engine compartment.




http://www.detali.ru/cat/oem_mb2.asp...080&SGN=04

 

I have been following the blogs on K-40 in other forums. Some even mentioned that it can be re-soldered and will work just finewhen done properly....I will verify this relay moduletomorrow and see if there are visible stressanywhere...I will keep you posted though..oh by the way...what an awesome diagram Al. Now I will be able to find it....will come in handy for sure. Well, I sincerely appreciate what you've done. I hope you have a fine one and thanks again.
Bob

 

Good luck, and would like to hear what you find out at the end of your quest. Al