190e no start condition
 

I have a 1992 190e 2.6L. About 6-8 months ago it stopped starting after hard rains and after drying out, it would run fine. The condition then progressed to light rains, then to humid days and now it will not start at all. I replaced all consumable ignition components (plugs, wires, cap and rotor). I checked the ignition control module, crank sensor, spark, and coil and all seem to be operating properly. I did not check fuel pressure but you can hear it prime, and after cranking a little you can pull a plug and it is damp w/gas so i believe that fuel delivery is not a problem.

I did find that the wires going to the resistor that controls the timing were corroded and w/a tug, broke. I rewired it and the car fired right up for about 5 seconds and stalled out. After that, it only cranks. If i give it a little starting fluid, it will start and idle for about 5 seconds, but it is extremely rough and the intake flap open about 1/3 of the way and slams shut rapidly.

I plan on checking timing and fuel pressure just to rule that out. After that i am at a loss if they check out OK.

Any ideas on what to check next would be much appreciated.

I was having the same problem. I replaced my EHA valve and it went away almost 99%. However, once in a while (like 2 out of 50 times) during rains or cold weather, it happens. It use to happen very often before that. So I'm sure there is something else that is respondent to the moisture in the air that somehow works in conjuction with the start but not sure what it is. I replaced all of the fuel flow components prior to that. No change.

Sounds to me like a vacuum leak at the idle control valve. Check for tears.

You cannot adjust timing...it won't be a problem. Fuel pressure test definitely should be checked after the vacuum leak test. You can buy a kit from Harbor Freight if you live by one in the USA --it should contain adapters for the CIS-E system:
http://w124-zone.com/articles.php?article_id=28

What about inside? If you leave it set for like 5 days in the garage, and you go get in it will it crank right up?