Another Cold Start Issue ('82 300SD) - Page 2 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

sd300td · #16 01-12-2009, 02:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brian Carlton

With regard to the former, I'll give the mechanic the benefit of the doubt and ask the question as to exactly where he found this "fuel dampener regulator screw"??

With regard to the latter...........I can absolutely tell you that this is not a factual statement. The mechanic cannot adjust the fuel/air mixture on a diesel. A diesel runs with unlimited air at all times other than full power. At that point it runs with just enough air.

I believe its aka a rack dampener screw. This screw is what was adjusted for cold weather idle.

What does the rack dampener screw "adjust"? I assumed it was the amount of fuel, is this incorrect? I'm curious.

rrgrassi · #17 01-12-2009, 02:50 PM

The rack damper limits the motion of the fuel rack, and is spring loaded. It acts kind of like a shock absorber.

forcefed44 · #18 01-12-2009, 08:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Graplr

You probably have the block heater installed. Just no cord attached to it. It is my understanding that almost all MB diesels in that era came with a factory installed block heater without a cord attached. It was then up to the new owner to bring it back to the dealer for a free cord install. I have the original book showing that this was done with my 84SD which was orginally bought in CA.

I would look under the turbo and above the starter. You probably have one and just need to attach a cord to it.

Where can you get a heater cord if you don't have one???

SD Blue · #19 01-12-2009, 11:44 PM

Call Phil with All Parts Express here at the website.

Graplr · #20 01-13-2009, 10:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by forcefed44

Where can you get a heater cord if you don't have one???

Here you go!
http://catalog.peachparts.com/ShopByVehicle.epc?q=&yearid=1982%40%401982&makeid=63%40%40MERCEDES%2DBENZ%40%4063%40%40MERCEDES%2DBENZ%40%40X&modelid=6190%40%40300D&keyword=block+heater&subcatid=P:242394@@Block+Heater+Cord&mode=PA

I am assuming it is for your 82 300D.

Jeremy5848 · #21 01-13-2009, 10:54 AM

I would not blindly assume that an '82 300SD came with a block heater. The 300D of that era, which also used the 617 engine, did not come from the factory with a block heater. The dealer would install one for free if you asked during the first year after new purchase but you were on your own after that.

Perhaps the S-class cars came with a block heater because they were the top of the line? I would check first. The block heater is on the right side of the block, down low and just ahead of the starter. If the block heater was installed but never used, it could have a plastic cap screwed on top of it and will be hard to see after 25+ years. If not, there will be a plug in the hole. Given the difficulty of removing that plug, I would vote for installation of a heater in the lower radiator hose.

Jeremy

mobetta · #22 01-13-2009, 12:38 PM

the block heaters did not appear to be standard until M.Y. 86, from what I have read.
my 84 does not have one.

last I checked, the heater cord that was listed on fastlane was for a zerostart heater, not the original MB cord. so call before ordering.

Graplr · #23 01-13-2009, 12:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jeremy5848

I would check first.

I 100% agree. I was assuming he already verified he had a block heater since the only question he asked was where to find a cord.

I also agree that if it turns out he does not have a block heater then it would be easier to do a lower radiator hose install.

moxieman2 · #24 01-15-2009, 11:55 AM

Update, after the valve adjustment I have no more issues.

Every valve required adjustment, measurement tool would not fit! Car idles much smoother now. BTW, checked for block heater....negative, unfortunately there is simply a large bolt where the heater should be, no worries, it starts right up and actually stays running now! Thanks for all the input!

Brian Carlton · #25 01-15-2009, 12:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by moxieman2

Car idles much smoother now.

I have no doubt about this.

However, please determine if the problem with hunting has been eliminated via the valve adjustment. I'd have difficulty in believing this.

SD Blue · #26 01-15-2009, 12:22 PM

Since the valve adjustment was quite off, repeat it again in about 2 months. Afterwards, you will be surprised at how smooth it will purr at idle.

moxieman2 · #27 01-15-2009, 03:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brian Carlton

I have no doubt about this.

However, please determine if the problem with hunting has been eliminated via the valve adjustment. I'd have difficulty in believing this.

Sorry, I should have been more clear, the hunting is still present. However, when the car would do this before, as the RPM's lowered, it would stall out, and generally had a rough idle. While the car does still intermittently vary in idle speed, it does keep idling!!! The hunting doesn't really bother me, as long as I can run back in the house and wait for the car to warm up when its 5 degrees outside!!! Thanks again!