I have just purchased a 77 450SL. This is my first Mercedes. Have experiance repairing my own Jag and BMW.

The 450SL starts cold easily and runs like a dream (even warm). It does not start well (sometimes not at all) when warm. Where should I be looking for the problem?

Thanks

Note: Mileage = 90,000 miles.

Fuel pressure leak down. Have the accumulator checked.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

A couple of things,

1st...The term "accumulator" is not used in my Service Manual. Are you refering to the "fuel reservoir" located at the fuel pump and filter?

2nd...I have noticed that upon turning on the key, I hear the fuel pump start, then about 3 seconds later I hear the fuel return line splashing fuel back into the fuel tank. I can also detect that there is air mixed with the gas in the return line.

Last, could it be that the check valve at the fuel pump is not working properly? Is this my problem?

Thanks,

Mike

Well as I indicated, a fuel pressure leak down will cause this and the check valve is one of the components responsible for holding pressure.

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Benzmac:
ASE CERTIFIED MASTER AUTO TECHNICIAN
LEAD TECHNICIAN FOR 14 BAY FACILITY
MERCEDES SPECIALIST 8 YRS
PARTNER IN MERCEDESSHOP.COM

Mike, I had a similar problem with my 380sl in the past. Cause was the fuel 'accumulator' and as you found out the book calls it a 'reservoir'. It is located next to the fuel pump and fuel filter and almost looks like another fuel filter. If I remember correctly, there was an input and an output connection. The 'output' end was rerouted back to the fuel tank. If you get gas at that end, then then the accumulator is probably bad as I believe it only routes gas back to the tank in that direction if the diaphragm in the accumulator leaks. Hope this helps you. bkim

mike-
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