harder starting and smoke
 

About 2 weeks ago, my '85 300D started to smoke more on start up in the morning, and require a little pressure on the gas pedal for about 5 seconds to keep it running. Then it's fine. When the engine is even slightly warm there are no problems. Prior to 2 weeks ago, it always fired right up in the morning with no smoke.

I checked the glow plugs - all show 1 ohm or less. Haven't checked valves yet, will do that in about 2 weeks. Perhaps I should test the relay itself - with the glow system on, how many volts should I see at each connector pin? Is there anything else I can look for or try?

Thanks,

IIRC, the glow plugs need to read about .6 ohms. Even if they pass does not mean they are good.

When is the last time they were replaced?

Also check your strip fuse. Does the GP light come on and shut off?

Sounds like timing symptoms, but they should appear gradually and worsen.

Answers to questions:

Only have owned the car 6 weeks, so I don't know how old the plugs are. Yes, the glow plug light does come on at startup. The strip fuse looks OK.

My idle speed is around 700 rpm - would turning this up to 750-800 hurt anything?

I would check your valve adjustment immediately! Tight valves will not close all the way or at the proper time and this could lead to valve damage and the symptoms you spoke of!:eek:

VW1300,

Check the voltage at the GP when they are energized. U should get about 11 to 11.5 volts at each one.

P E H