Sputter?

[dldubois]

I've gotten everything sorted out and decided to get the car out on the highway.   It's only been driven a couple of times of the last 3-4 months and at that time it ran fine.

The issue:  Starts right up and idles fine.  Once I get the RPMs up I'm experiencing some sputter.   Of course it's at the higher RPMs so I'm on the highway maintaining speed and the engine's sputtering as I try to stay up w/ traffic.

My initial thoughts are the fuel system and replacing the fuel filter.   In the last 2 years I've had no issues with how the car runs and its always purred.  

Does the fuel filter, fuel system seem like the logical culprit?

thanks.



Dana DuBois

1970 280sl White (050)4spd
Corinth, TX

[CraigD]

Dana,
I just experienced a similar symptom. Above 3000 rpm and with throttle, my '70 began to stumble and sputter.  I was advised to try changing the plugs, which I doubted would solve the problem.  Surprise... it solved the problem that quickly and easily!  It's running smoothly again at all rpms.

Don't know if it will solve your case, but it's an easy step to take.

Craig DeVine
Belleuve, WA
Silver '70 280SL Euro
4-speed

[n/a]

Did you clean the points?  That was usually my problem.

[ja17]

Hello Dana,
A lot of good advice already from Craig and Kevin above. Start with the simple and inexpensive thing s first. Change spark plugs, clean or replace points, fuel filter, test spark plug wires and ends,  (they may break down from age), replace fuel filter.

Even fairly new points can tarnish from sitting around too long.

Joe Alexander
Blacklick, Ohio

[dldubois]

Thanks for the input guys.

Craig:  Installed a new set of Bosch Platinum plugs and the car now purrs.  

Too bad its supposed to rain today.

Dana DuBois

1970 280sl White (050)4spd
Corinth, TX