I have a 1982 300TDT. My fuse for circuit 1 keeps blowing. I have the correct color fuse installed as per the fuse box specification.
Over a year and a half ago this started happening. Up until now I could just replace the fuse and it would be fine for several months, so I just let it go.
Now, however, it blows immediately as soon as ignition switch or lights are turned on.
When this blows I lose my dash lights, right rear taillight and right marker light. It basically means I can't safely drive it at night until I get the problem taken care of. The turn signals still work, by the way, if that somehow helps to diagnose the problem.
I would not hesitate to take it in to a good MB mechanic that knows these W123s (there are several here in Portland), but the fact that it is Circuit 1 makes me hesitant.
When I took it to a mechanic back when we lived in Colorado about 1 1/2 years ago about this problem, he basically told me that because there are so many things on Circuit 1 it could take a very long time (and therefore a lot of money) to find the problem.
I admit that although I do the large majority of work on my own car, and can R&R just about anything — troubleshooting electrical is absolutely my weakest area.
Does anyone have any suggestions on what could possibly be the most typical place I could start? I have a multi-meter and test light. I am just pretty inept at using them, so any help is greatly appreciated!
Thanks,
Brett
1982 300TDT (244,000 miles)