Starting problems

[n/a]

Hello,

My 230 SL of 1967 has difficulties with starting the engine. The cold start needs about three turnarounds before starting (runs well after starting).
When the car is hot, and I stop the engine, and start again immediately, the engine starts without problems. But, when the car has been stopped for more then a couple minutes, the engine does not start well. I need to give some throttle. Besides that, the engine runs on four or five cilinders in the first secondes.

Who could help me with this problem? The valves are checked, contact gap is new. Plugcables renewed. Even the bobine is new. The engine is a restored engine from 1964. Engines runs very well. Presure is outstanding.

 :?:  :?:  :?:

[J. Huber]

Hi Wing.

One of the more common issues with our cars, I'd say. There could be a number of things that make starting difficult. You might try doing a search under "cold start" or "starting problems" and you will get lots of info. Among the top things I'd check first would be the Cold Start Valve (CSV) and the ThermoTime Switch (TTS). As you will soon discover, the entire cold start system for these cars is essential to good starting -- and not that complicated to trouble shoot. I chased a cold start problem for years -- and eventually found that a faulty TTS was the culprit. (Thanks GD)

In my case, the car would usually find a way to start -- sometimes quickly and sometimes only after a bunch of tries. But once running, it ran great. Now, 3 years after, it still starts great as well.

James
63 230SL

[RBurg]

Hi Wing:

Ron
71 280SL Tobacco "O GIGI"
97 E420 Silver Mist

[RBurg]

Hi Wing:

Had simlar problem for 3 years, Joe did a quick check found it was the TTS. Replaced, a little investment of $100+, works perfect now.

Ron
71 280SL Tobacco "O GIGI"
97 E420 Silver Mist

[Chad]

Hi Wing:  I am a newcomer to SL cars, too.  Noticed the same problem you describe myself at first.  This forum is really good and the search that James suggests helped me very much.  The CSV was the problem and the searches can help. From what I learned reading several things could go wrong and I don't have the ability to suggest what may be the problem with your car, I can only second the suggestion to do the research here about the CSV as a start...  It might help you effectively correct this annoying problem yourself.

-CD-
1967 230SL, 113.042 10
1983 300TDT, 123.193

[DavidAPease]

Hi, Wing,

Like Ron, my problem was quickly diagnosed by Joe.  In my case, the CSV relay was corroded inside and not making contact.  A quick open up of the can and cleaning, and everything worked like a champ!

-David Pease
'66 French 230SL