PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum - View Single Post

BENZ-LGB · #10 05-21-2001, 11:21 PM

OK, after going nuts with this cold idle problem I asked friends for a recommendation for a good, independent local Mercedes mechanic. I took my car to him and I told him all the symptoms that I described here. I also told him the dealer's recommendation was to fix an alleged intake manifold leak and replace the fuel distributor. The whole thing would cost over $1,600.00 [this dealer had already replaced the EHA (under warranty) and replaced all the injectors]. I also told the new mechanic about all the suggestions posted here.

He didn't think that the coolant temperature sensor was the problem so he replaced it at no charge to me. The new sensor did not fix the problem. Then he told me that the problem was probably with one of my exhaust valves that might be sticking (or seated too tight). The valves are supposed to be self-adjusting, but he said that sometimes they stick, or become seated too tight. Anyhow, he adjusted the valve and replaced a shim that sits around the lifter (he showed me what it looks like and where it sits). After he was done, voila! problem solved.

Now I have smooth idle, cold, warm or hot. He told me to also change the spark plug wires in order to get PERFECT idle. He suggested, however, that I wait till the next oil change because there is no hurry.

It is amazing that the local M-B dealer just wanted to throw parts at the problem (preferably expensive parts) and hope something would work. Had I followed the dealer's advice I would have spent over $2K without a guarantee that it would even work. This guy (who is also an airplane pilot) took the time to look for a solution to the specific problem, not just exchange parts. And he solved the problem w/o costing me an arm and a leg. He even forgot to add the cost of the oil (I also had the oil changed by him, I used dino-oil, no the syn stuff) in the final invoice.

I am very happy that the problem is solved. Now my 420SEL runs and idles as smooth as silk. If anyone wants the name of a good local mechanic (I am in the Central Coast, California) e-mail me.

I wish to thank all of you who offered your suggestions. In my case the problem was something other than what was suggested here. Still, this is a great site and the amount of knowledege being shared is just tremendous.

A/C fan aspirator:

Benzmac, I had the mechanic remove and replace the noisy A/C aspirator fan. I figured it was too much of a hassle digging around the dash area lookingfor the fan. Thanks for your suggestions and help. Boy, the car is so quiet now without all that chirping!!!

Wind noise issue (posted under a different thread):

I followed the suggestions given here and I used duct tape to cover the areas suspected of caasing wind noise. I was able to isolate the problem and I am getting the windshield resealed tomorrow.

Thanks ya'll.

P.S. The average age of a Mercedes owner is 52 years, 71% of all Mercedes owners have a college degree (highest of all luxury cars) and their mediam annual income is over $162K (also the highest).

[Edited by BENZ-LGB on 05-22-2001 at 12:41 AM]