I recently purchased a '83 240D, serviced, good overall condition, oil changed 2k miles ago. Occasionally when I start her (today was 45-50 degrees F) she will shudder violently and 30-45 second later settle down to normal idle. I am new to owning a diesel, but doubt this is normal. Please advise on whether this is red flag or something to look in to. The car drives excellent overall and I want to make sure I keep her running properly.

Thanks!

Just some random thoughts. First , how sound are the motor mounts, engine shock, or tranny mounts? Second, check the in-line fuel filter before crank up and see if there is an unusual amount of air in the line...perhaps could indicate the need for a fuel-line replacement. Third, are injectors cleaned regularly using Diesel Purge routine? Have you tried the fuel delivery timing adjustment?

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Bama1


2008 SLK 280, Firemist Red - "Hurricane"
2001 F150 Lariat 4x4, Black on Black - "Badboy"
1982 240D 4 speed survivor -"Pearl" - Donated to Vietnam Veterans
1962 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 -"Gertrude"

1954 model original owner - ~2.5M
Gray softtop/solid exterior/modified chassis

does it start easily, or do you have to carnk and crank? Valves been adjusted? The valves tend to get tight and heat expands them a little to allow the car to run, but when the engine is cold, it's fighting itself to keep running because the valves aren't opening long enough to allow enough air in.

good luck

__________________
Closing the store
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There is some good stuff above, but first and foremost you need to check the operation of your glow plugs!

http://www.dieselgiant.com/glowplugrepair.htm

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Jimmy L.
'05 Acura TL 6MT
2001 ML430 My Spare

Gone:
'95 E300 188K "Batmobile" Texas Unfriendly Black
'85 300TD 235K "The Wagon" Texas Friendly White
'80 240D 154K "China" Scar engine installed
'81 300TD 240K "Smash"
'80 240D 230K "The Squash"
'81 240D 293K"Scar" Rear ended harder than Elton John