cold start problem
 

I have a 94 E320 with 104,000 miles. New spark plugs from Fastlane and new Interstate battery. Difficult to start in the morning under 40 degrees F. Cranks fine, but won't fire. Starts after the 3rd attempt at cranking and with a little throttle. Starts fine the rest of the day. Could the problem be with an air or a water temperature sensor? Can this be checked with a volt meter?

Mark

Does that car have an idle control valve on it? reason I ask is because if you have to give it a little throttle to get it started that seems kind of strange, as that engine is fuel injected and therefore unless the ICV isn't opening enough to allow air in then it would not start. I would suggest turning on the ignition, pressing the gas pedal down all the way and release a few times to loosen it up since it is so cold, while the pedal is fully released give it a crank and see if it starts right up. That would mean that you have a sticky ICV. If you want diagnostic info on your temp sensor you can go to our local mb site, click on tech stuff, then engine technical link, you will see a link for engine controls, I think I put the parameters for the temp sensor in there, but can't remember. If not let me know. The 104 engine is awesome, I have one in my 96 SL320 and it is a lot of fun and really easy to work on. Good luck!
Brian

Thanks Brian, I'll try your idea for the ICV tomorrow morning.
regards,
Mark