difficult cold starting
 

My 94 e320 with 118,000 miles is having trouble starting at 40 degrees and below. Cranks fine as battery is just 12 month old; spark plugs replaced in August 05 (correct Bosch plugs from Fastlane). Fires after 3 to 4 revolutions, and dies. This sequence continues unil I intervene by a few quick stabs to the accelerator after which it catches and runs without any problem. Any Ideas?
regards,
Mark

ps My wifes 96 Nissan Maxima (135,000 miles) almost simultaneously began the same behavior.

M

Just a thought, but maybe your gas is to blame. Do you fill both up at the same place?

The brand & octane of fuel is a good possibility!

Also CARBON deposits on the throttle body & butterfly can cause that problem as well. Scrubbing that housing & butterfly with "scotch-brite" pad can make a big difference. Removal of the throttle body ISN'T required.

Both cars fill at the same Exxon station with highest octane available. I'll look at the throttle bodies this weekend.
Thanks,
Mark

You may want to do a fuel pressure test at the rail port......