My first step in trying to rectify my intermittent stalling problem is to replace my "Idle Control Valve", as suggested by my mechanic.However,I have great difficulty sourcing for this part in Singapore as they need the part number.I am no expert repairman (altho I wish to become one),so I'm asking for fellow members here to help me out.

My car is a 1983 W126 (280SEL).If you have the part number,or better still,advice on diagnosing this problem,pls share with me.

Thanks in advance!

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Mervyn

1979 W123 (200/M) Midnight Blue
1983 W126 (280SEL) Dupont Deep Black (Previously Pristine Silver)

Mervyn,
I don't think the 1983 W126(280SEL) was sold in the USA.
My parts place said if you could get the engine no. he might be able to help you. Better yet, would be to get the no. from your defective unit. You could then call your dealer in Singapore and get the part. A similar unit in the USA costs $210.00. Good luck....
Bill Lewallen Lexington,Ky.

Hi Lewallen,the best thing abt being in the States is that you get to buy cars at very decent prices,and with a whole lot of models and makes to choose from.Car prices here in Singapore is skyrocketing,and with huge taxes and other cost loadings on vehicles,not many can afford cars with 5liters and above.Sad fact,rite?

Nevertheless,thanks for your input.I have already submitted a parts information request thru the Parts Shop,but in case I dont hear from them,maybe you could help me get my engine number thru to your parts place when you're free.My engine number is :11098922030847, and chassis number is:B12602322078801.

Once again,thank you for the help.
Cheers.....

Mervyn,
I will check on the idle control part tomorrow. It's 11:45PM here in Ky. and all stores are closed

Are you sure it's the Idler control? The fuel pump has a way of acting up as well. Also the Fuel Pump Relay switch in your fuse box could be going out. You might want to ensure what it is first before you spend a lot of money on something you don't need.

Hi Benzman,yes,my mechanic did mention about the fuel pump but according to him,as long as the car doesnt stall when I step on the gas pedal,then the pump should be working alrite.What he meant was that if the RPM needle responds to my depressing the gas pedal,then the pump is ok.But then again,you could be rite.The pump could be malfunctioning intermittenly.

As for the Fuel Pump Relay Switch,I shall go check on that.Is it one of those small rectangular boxes located above the fuses?

The problem with intermittent stalling problems is that there're dozens of causes,which means I must be rather technically inclined,and also have lots of patience to eventually sieve out the actual cause.I guess I'm getting frustrated and so am just dying to rid the problem once and for all,and thus sometimes succumb to the "I-dun-care-how-much-it-cost-but-just-get-it-repaired" mentality.

Nonetheless,thanks for the timely reminder,I shall keep your advice in mind.

Cheers

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Mervyn

1979 W123 (200/M) Midnight Blue
1983 W126 (280SEL) Dupont Deep Black (Previously Pristine Silver)

Mervyn,
I got the part number for the idle control valve on your 1983 280SEL(RHD)Mercedes. The number is: 000 141 15 25.The cost is $125(US). You can call Mike at IPCO Lilburn Ga. (Atlanta area)1-800-635-8590. I'm not sure if you can use 800 numbers outside the US. Email him at ipcoinc@aol.com
He does take credit cards, and will ship anywhere. Good luck.
Bill Lewallen Lexington,Ky.

Hi Bill, I finally managed to locate one shop which does sell the "Idle Control Valve", and its all thanks to your help in getting me the part number. I cant wait to replace that valve and thats why I prefer not to place an international order as that would take up quite some time. Its always an anxiety-filled driving experience when you know the car's gonna stall on you anytime. And you can say I'm pretty upset over it.But I appreciated your help and advice.

Now that I got the new valve on, I feel much more assured and driving has been more a pleasure. At the same time, the "Ignition Control Module" has been diagnosed to be the other half of the cause of the stalling problems, and I also got it replaced today. No doubt I spent US$200 on these 2 small items, but I think its worth it.

Test drove the car quite a bit today, and it doesnt stall anymore even when I tried simulating situations closest to that causing a stall. I'm glad!!

And Benzman,I'm gonna do a check on my fuel pump relay soon, and be sure that this tip is another great one.Many thnks guys!

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Mervyn

1979 W123 (200/M) Midnight Blue
1983 W126 (280SEL) Dupont Deep Black (Previously Pristine Silver)

Mervyn,
I'm glad you got your 1983 280SEL fixed. Hope it didn't cost too much. Even here in the US, Mercedes parts are expensive if you get them from the MB dealer. After you have driven Mercedes as long as I have, you know of better and less expensive places to get parts. Good luck to you.
Bill Lewallen Lexington,Ky.