Intermittent or total electrical failures
Symptoms
Lights dim, instruments stop working, car won't start, battery goes flat. Random electrical gremlins.
Cause
Age. Corroded earths, failing alternator, worn wiring, dodgy fuses, and amateur repairs all conspire against you. The 260 series uses a relatively simple electrical system by modern standards, but four decades of British weather (or wherever) takes its toll.
Fix
Start with the basics, clean and tighten all earth points (especially the main engine earth strap and body earths).
Check battery condition and charge state.
Test the alternator output (should be around 13.8-14.4V at idle).
Go through the fuse box and clean all connections.
Repair or replace corroded wiring as you find it.
Invest in a proper wiring diagram.
Know something we don't?
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