My 86 300E (160k) idles somewhat rough. Also never starts the first time. Engine cranks maybe 2 or 3 seconds, catches, dies, then starts on the second try. Have recent plugs, injectors, plug wires, brain box etc. Runs very smooth/strong now except at idle. Any suggestions?

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Have a power balance done on the engine to determine which if any of the cyl's are not contributing to the engine at idle. It will help in finding the problem.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
SERVICE MANAGER FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Please advise as to what turns out to be the problem, as my '88 300TE acts the same way. I haven't done much to run the problem down other than a comprehensive tune-up, which did not impact the problem. My guess is that the fuel line pressure is bleeding off somewhere; there are 2 check-valves in the system, both of which I've replaced to no avail. I changed the fuel filter too. Good luck!

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