PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post - Coda, 1986 300SDL, the journey continues........

daw_two · #12 01-30-2009, 10:30 AM

Okay, the bad news --- Coda would not start this morning. The temperature in the garage (much warmer outside this morning than days in the past) was about 49F. It cranks and cranks and cranks; will NOT fire. It's like she is not getting ANY fuel. I drove it yesterday to work, started fine, then at lunch, then home, then again last night to run to Costco and she started fine each time.

Does the fuel gauge register when the key is in the ON position or does the car have to be running? Is it possiblle my fuel drip issue worsen overnight to the point of NOT starting? Is it possible the "prime" of the fuel system was lost overnight with the leaks in my delivery valves?

Here's what I've done this morning:
1. Allow a full glow plug cycle until the relay CLUNKS off.
2. Removed a fuel return line to see if I'm getting fuel. It is dribbling during cranking.
3. Checked the SHUT OFF lever --- it is UP.
4. Checked the fuses --- all look good; although if it is cranking it should start IF it is getting fuel.
5. Opened up Injector Line #5 at the injector --- cranked a few times; cannot see fuel on paper towel --- of course this Injector is ONE of TWO of the injector lines where I suspect I have a leak in the IP Delivery Valves on #2 (or 3) and #5.
6. Ran down battery.

The primary fuel filter is dirty (been meaning to change it), but I see fuel in it. I'll be changing both fuel filters in the course of solving the NO START condition. I have to wonder if I ran out of fuel JUST as I pulled into the garage last night.

Plan of ATTACK:
Set up a fuel bottle next to primary fuel filter.
Charge battery.
Check glowplugs --- although at 49, I'm thinking Coda could start within 10 seconds of cranking without glow plugs.
Order O-rings and Crush washers today for Delivery Valve repair.

Is there anything that I've overlooked?

Thanks.