1989 300TE wont go when cold... - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

joegolden · #1 10-28-2009, 09:47 PM

I found a 89 300te that is in great physical condition and seems to run and drive great! except when its cold...It falls flat on its face when you give it the gas. The car has to sit and idle until warm and then it accelerates perfectly. I really like the car because it runs and drives so nice but of course it has this issue, no a/c, and I notice the large hydraulic fluid tank under the hood...I guess that is for the self level suspension. If I can get it for $2000 what other things should i look for? Thanks so much for any advice you guys might have...

mbdoc · #2 10-29-2009, 09:07 AM

Most likely a issue with the overvoltage relay OR incorrect current flow to the EHA.

I would think $1500 would be top $$$ with those problems.

ps2cho · #3 10-29-2009, 04:51 PM

Sounds like what my 260E had when I bought it. After I swapped out the EHA it was a completely different car.

SLS can be expensive if it is not working and you want it to be. Easiest way to check is to start engine and have 2 people sit in the rear (300lbs+). It should raise at this point.

A/C can be expensive if the heater core is leaking ($800 at a shop or entire day DIY as entire dash has to be gutted).

So keep the above two in mind. I wouldn't worry too much about the power problems as it doesn't sound major if the car is better when warm. A nice new set of plugs/wires/rotor/cap and EHA sound like the fix.

EDIT: That reminds me if the coolant temp sensor is broken/not functional it makes the car stumble when cold, but act perfectly fine when warm. I came upon this when I snapped mine by accident. I noticed right away the difference the next morning.