Hi Dennikro,

You have certainly had this problem for a while.

1) Have you changed your OVP Relay?

2) Have you looked at the OEQ Filter at the fuel in side of the Fuel Distributor?
These can become clogged up over time.

__________________

1993 190E 2.3
2001 SLK230
1971 LS5 (454) Corvette Convertible

Thanks for the reply. I have not checked either of these items. What is the OVP relay and what does it do? (Sorry, I don't have my techincal disc at work with me right now)

It the OEQ a removable and cleanable item or is it replace only?

You can remove the OEQ filter and look to see if it is clogged up or dirty, if it is, I would replace it.

I would also check the vacuum hose connected to the Fuel Pressure Regulator, they become dry/brittle and crack. It's mounted on the rear like in the photo below.



The OVP relay provides voltage for components like the Idle Control Valve.
Below is an example of an OVP relay and a 190E electronic engine control schematic that you can look at to see what the OVP relay does.

One of the main problems with the OVP relay is a blown 10 amp fuse on top, or bad solder joints inside the relay.

The OVP relay is located behind the battery on my 190E, but I believe the OVP relay on a '91 380SE is located right of brake booster according to my parts book.

__________________

1993 190E 2.3
2001 SLK230
1971 LS5 (454) Corvette Convertible

Thanks again for all the comments and suggestions for this ongoing issue.

It does not appear to be the fuel related components mentioned (above) as there is plenty of fuel flowing as indicated by the strong smell of gas after cranking. It really seems to be an ignition issue.

It had been suggested that the voltage protection relay could be going. This is the aluminum bodied, black-capped relay with a fuse on the top of it. It is located on the firewall, just to the driver's side of center. While the fuse is good, it's possible the temp could still be affecting the contacts inside. Sound plausible?

I was also told that if this relay is not the problem, that it should probably be replaced anyway since it would be problematic eventually.

So with all that said, what could be affected by temperature that impacts the ignition system firing or not? And no, the car wouldn't start this morning, hence the post. Funny how such events go hand in hand.

Dennis

*Edit* Reading back, is the relay I'm talking about the same as the OVP relay mentioned above possibly? It sure seems to match the loaction and description...

OK...so I'm sure most people are sick of hearing about this problem I've been having so I'll wrap it up with a jubilant "PROBLEM SOLVED!"

After all that frustration, a visit to a german auto specialist pinpointed the problem to be a weak ignition coil.

The car starts, run, takes off beautifully now! Thanks for everyone's suggestions too...some parts got replaced that definately needed replacing anyway!