1990 300CE extremely hard start

[steve fraser]

I recently purchased a 1990 300CE (3.0L 24V engine) that starts extremely hard; cold or hot. Once running it seems to idle smoothly at about 800 rpms and has a minor drop in idle when it's put in gear.

Once the vehicle is shut off or on cold starts it needs to be cranked alot to get it to start. Once it catches it sputters until it comes up to idle and then it smooths out. I've checked obvious loose wiring connections and hoses but have found nothing. I've seen alot of postings for similar problems but none exactly like this. Any help would be greatly appreciated.