When I start my '89 260E it runs perfect for the first 3 sec then dies out. After this It's a bear to start. Sometimes pressing the accelerator helps, or turn the key off for 10 secs then try again. It doesn't matter if the engine is warm or cold. The only time it doesn't do this is if I start it shortly after I've shut it off. Other than this the engine runs perfectly fine, no stalling, good acceleration, and gets the mileage it should. Anybody have any ideas. I've tried a new cold start valve.

Other than a bad overvoltage relay, I would check all of the secondary ignition system.

__________________
MERCEDES Benz Master Guild Technician (6 TIMES)
ASE Master Technician
Mercedes Benz Star Technician (2 times)
44 years foreign automotive repair
27 Years M.B. Shop foreman (dealer)
MB technical information Specialist (15 years)
190E 2.3 16V ITS SCCA race car (sold)
1986 190E 2.3 16V 2.5 (sold)
Retired Moderator

Hello M.B.DOC,

what is a secondary ignition system?

__________________
Keep us posted especially if your problem is solved
Present cars:
My car: E-class 420CDI, 2008, W211, V8, 180 000km

Wife's one: C-class 220CDI Sport Coupé, Euro, 2002, W203. 345 000km

Son's one: GLK class 220CDI, 2009, W204

Sold E class 260E, W124, 1988 beloved car sold after 489 000 kilometres of reliable services (engine M103, clutch and 5 speed manual gear box all original).

E-class, W210 320CDI, 2000[/B], 225 000km, Sold