Help - Problem starting a 230SL (manual)

[relbhcb]

I can't get my 230SL's engine to start - after 2-3 years of never letting me down .

• If I do not touch the throttle pedal and turn the key (after having let the fuel pump pressurise the system for ~10 seconds) then the engine fires for a couple of seconds at low RPM, but then dies - tick over is not self sustaining, and even if I "tickle" the pedal to keep it going the engine cuts out anyway.

• Alternatively, if I press the throttle fully to the floor and turn the key then it roars in to life (maybe 2,500 RPM)   , but as soon as I try to reduce the RPM the engine dies.

• If I do either of these more than two or three times I then have to leave it for ~10 minutes before it will fire again.

I had thought that the automatic choke required you to not touch the throttle during start, but the full-to-the-floor method was given to me to use if all else failed (& it did get me started last weekend).

Any suggestions as to what I can look at? The battery is fine, and the fuel tank is half full with reasonably fresh petrol. The electronic fuel pump sounds normal.

TIA

[Benz Dr.]

Your engine isn't getting enough fuel which could be any number of problems. I would look at ignition first and then fuel pressure.

[ja17]

Ditto, on Dan's reply.

[relbhcb]

Thanks both; I have asked my independent MB specialist to come over on Friday to have a look at it - fuel issues (injection) are beyond me I'm afraid. 

[Benz Dr.]

You need a good strong spark which you can check at the coil wire. Fuel volume is generally a sign of good fuel pressure. Both of these tests are on this site.

[douglas5005]

Hi,

Any updates on the car?

[Benz Dr.]

Probably the warm up regulator on the IP. It could be stuck in the fully warmed position.