Sprinter 2003 cuts out whilst driving and has some problems starting

[Bonehead]

Hi all,

I having a problem with my 2003 Sprinter 311 cdi that seems to crop up on this forum and others. The main issue is that the engine will cut out whilst driving - usually after having driven the van for while that day (i.e. the engine is warm). When the problem occurs i have to pull to the side of the road, turn the key back, and then restart. It will restart fine but 10 minutes later the problem will happen again. I can usually start it one last time but if the engine cuts out a third time i then can't get it started at all and EDC light comes on. The engine doesn't even try to turn over.

In addition to this i have had some problems starting it on occasion. Easystart will get it going but i imagine the 2 problems are somehow connected.

On taking it to my mechanic each time the cause he has shown me has been a cracked washer in the fuel pressure regulator/valve and all error codes point to the fuel pressure valve. I have had the valve replaced twice but the problem persists. I have just broken down again and so want to take it to another mechanic (preferably a merc specialist who has seen this problem before) to get the error codes read and the problem properly diagnosed.

I read a lot the problem could be the CPS - but will this crack the fuel pressure valve washer? Could anyone shed any light please? If it is the CPS then i could replace this myself so i am told which could save me a lot of money.

I live in Bristol if anyone could help me locate a trusty independent merc specialist?

Please help.
Andy

 

[lwbnick]

Does it smoke?

 

[Bonehead]

No. And also no noises or weirdness before engine cuts out either.

Just been back through some service notes and in actual fact the crankshaft position sensor was replaced and the problem persists. So either it was replaced with a cheap CPS or it is something else.