Help,

I recently changed the fuel filter on my 99 E300. I was have trouble with her starting up. It would turn over perfectly and within 5-10 seconds sputter out. The second attempt to start would require extensive fuel pedal pumping and a long turnover time. I noticed air in my lines and replaced them this morning. All but one really. I ordered replacement all the replacement lines at *********************** and of course part number 606 070 0432 wasn't even listed on the catalog and I did not catch this. Any way. I changed what I had and replaced the fuel line o seals on the incoming fuel as well as the long line referenced by part number above. There is still obvious air in the lines, particularly that 606 070 0432. She starts now but still sputters a little after initial ignition. This may be because today is warmer than its been of late. Am I barking up the wrong tree with this air in the fuel line issue? Is there another reason she would behave this way. Once we get over this start up crap she runs like a champ. Well except for a transmission leak but I'll think I'll address that later.

Was the filter change just part of routine maintenance or were you experiencing a problem before the change? Was it the Spin-on Fuel Filter that was changed?

I do not know much about the newer models. However, any air leak has to be from the suction side of the Fuel Supply Pump back towards the tank. Trace the Fuel Inlet Hose/Tubing backwards and see if there is anything that might be able to create a cause of a leak.
If your Car has a Fuel Heater I have heard of Members changing the O-rings in them .
I also believe I read a member traced his Fuel Inlet tubing back and found the tubing was joined to another tubing with a short section of Hose. Ounce replaced he had no more air leak.
On my own car I found that the rubber Hoses between the Fuel Supply Pump, Plastic Filter and Fuel Inlet tubing had become hard. While they looked OK when the Engine Compartment was hot some air would leak under the hoses. Tightening the clamps did not help as the Hoses had poor elasticity.
I replaced the hoses and the trouble ended.

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84 300D, 82 Volvo 244Gl Diesel

Not barking up wrong tree; you've got a fuel/air leak.

Check all your connections and make certain both hold down clips are fully engaged.

Did you repalce the big oring at the pre-filter too? It is a common point of entry.

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Terry Allison
N. Calif. & Boca Chica, Panama

09' E320 Bluetec 77k (USA)
09' Hyundai Santa Fe Diesel 48k (S.A.)