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280s - lose wires - any ideas?

Started by 280s guest, 25 July 2020, 04:01 AM

280s guest

Hi W116 fans,

We inherited a W116 280s (I have attached 2 photos) and there are two wires just hanging around loose. Any ideas what they should be connected to?

Nabstud

Definitely looks aftermarket. Where does the other end go? Did it have driving lights?
1975 280S - Australian delivered

Big Tiny

Aftermarket crimping for sure.

Anything on the car not working ?

Any aftermarket switches in the car ?


daantjie

Looks like they run to the Ignition Control Module.   Maybe a anti theft gizmo to prevent starting?
Daniel
1977 450 SEL 6.9 - Astralsilber

280s guest

Thanks a mil for the replies.

So the wires come out from that box (see photo) the vehicle usually starts but the other morning it cranked and just kept cranking and even turning the ignition off did not stop the starter motor turning.... Had to quickly disconnect the battery to stop it. Now I am a bit worried.

There are some Hella spot lights on the vehicle but not even sure if they work or not.

Do you think the lose wires have anything to do with the constant cranking?

raueda1

They're aftermarket for sure.  Could be anything.  I think you need to bite the bullet and trace them to see where they go.  Otherwise everybody is just stabbing in the dark.  But my gut tells me the the engine cranking is unrelated.
-Dave
Now:  1976 6.9 Euro, 2015 GL550
Before that:  1966 230S, 1964 220SE coupe, 1977 Carrera 3.0

Alec300SD

#6
Starter continuing to run with the key off is probably due to sticking contacts in the ignition electrical switch.
78 W116 300SD 'Desert Rose' new as of 01/26/2014
79 W116 300SD 'Stormcloud' RIP 04/11/2022

280s guest

Thank you all again for your time and responses. Really appreciated.
I will trace and tape up the wires to make sure they are not shorting out on any body parts and see if the cranking issue is resolved.

Thanks again to you all