Trust ADVANCE auto parts for Starter??? I HAD TO! - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

DJNEWK2 · #1 10-29-2003, 11:34 AM

For the past few days since the weather has been starting to get a little nippy, my baby's been finicky when it comes to starting once its cold. It sounds like the starter and the first time it happened was Sunday evening (ironically right after I changed my cam oilers and took a look at the timing chain rails to find them beer-bottle brown). At first I thought it was the chain

But a few quick turns and she caught fine. I arrived at work yesterday after having to turn her twice (with the winding noise) until she started and once I parked (warm engine),turned her off and then it started right back up. After work it took me about 2-3 minutes to get her to catch which was scarrrrry! Again she turned and once I got home she started right up again. Sure enough it took 3 turns again this morning and once I parked she started up. Since last night I've been unable to get a starter from the "benz" auto stores that can get it before 10-14 days at over $200!

I'm forced to get a starter (the guy says its bosch since I said that's what I was looking for but we'll see) from Advance because I can't wait 2 weeks and pawn my unborn child for a starter.Has anyone had to do something similar to this and what were the results? I'm hoping that I don't have to regret this although the store guy says I'll have a lifetime warranty and again it is a bosch unit (for $115 -$90 when I get my core $$$ back)! Also, Its been about 5 years since I replaced the starter on my 220D and can't remember about how long it took because I was doing other crap to it that took me alllll day so if anyone can shed some light on how long that will take will help me out a lot. Thanks guys!

Alan

G-Benz · #2 10-29-2003, 12:26 PM

Wouldn't fret too much about that. Lifetime warranty. Great! If it dies, you get a free replacement.

I only fret about OEM counterparts when critical components are at stake...MB pistons from Pep Boys? Timing chain kit from Auto Zone? Not a chance!

If I can save a few bucks on a reman starter or alternator, cool. Ever price an OEM R129 battery? I was off to Interstate for the replacement.

Next time before things get critical, try FastLane...

engatwork · #3 10-29-2003, 06:41 PM

How's the battery? Did you test it? Usually this is the time of year that you find out if it is going to make it through the winter or not.

kerry · #4 10-29-2003, 10:22 PM

I assume you're talking about the 220d. I replaced the starter in a 300d a few weeks ago in about an hour and a half. It's much harder with the 5 cylinder since there is no access to the bolts from above. I would guess on a 220d you should be able to do it in about half an hour.
I don't know if there is a difference between the starters on the 220 series and the 240/300 series. But, there is a heavy duty starter for the 300d that I believe also fits the 240. It spins the engine at a faster speed. I can really hear the difference between the engine speeds on the 2 different starters. So, if a heavy duty starter off a 300d would fit your 220, I'd definitely put it in.

I looked on Fastlane. I'm pretty sure the heavy duty starter for the turbo engines will fit your application. Definitely use it. I'm not the only to notice the difference, particularly in cold weather.

Mike Murrell · #5 10-29-2003, 11:48 PM

[QUOTE]Originally posted by G-Benz
[B]Wouldn't fret too much about that. Lifetime warranty. Great! If it dies, you get a free replacement.

What good is a lifetime warranty is the part fails every 2-3 months? Not saying this will happen, but when younger, I spent many a weekend going back to one of these mass-marketers for a new elect. item..ie..starter, alternator.

I suppose the man did what he felt he had to, but I wouldn't be a bit surprised if the unit was gone B4 Santa arrives.

haasman · #6 10-30-2003, 12:43 AM

When I had diesels I went through starters. I went to the discount chains for starters and always took them back. I got really good a R&R'ing 240D starters in less than a 1/2 hour. The problem was they were all not up to the ratings necessary to crank a Mercedes when cold.

I finally gave up with deals and got a quality rebuilt specically for a Mercedes diesel. Never replaced it again.

Get one from FastLane or check with a local auto electric rebuilder. Tell them it has to be for a Mercedes diesel, they'll know exactly what and why you are saying this.

This is a case where cheaper isn't better.

Haasman

DJNEWK2 · #7 10-30-2003, 01:34 PM

Sorry for the confusion guys but I was actually talking about the 560... Yes the battery is just fine (its only a year old and nothing dimmed when I turned her). But I meant I hadn't had to change a starter SINCE I did my 220d so again sorry for the confusion.

The VERY good news was that they were able to have the starter ready for pickup within the time I called them from work at 9am and I got there at 6pm. I really appreciated the fact that this particular store bent the rules for me. I know it is against policy to order an item for p/u without the person paying for it 1st because they eat it a lot of times but the good Lord saw fit that they trust a person's word in such an untrusting world that I'd show up and pay for it.

It was a blessing for us both because low and behold was a shiny new (refurbished in Germany anyway) BOSCH starter! I was able to get this baby for under $100 once I bring in my core. Of course the 560 started right up yesterday and this morning but I'll probably still change it out soon. If it continues to act right I've got a brand new Starter for "whenever" for a very decent price... Thanks for the words guys and I;ll keep you posted