190e (1.8) Ignition/running troubles

[Mustardmit]

I have a 1992 190e, it's in wonderful condition (110,000 miles on the clock); Spark plugs look as they should, oil relatively clean and it generally runs smoothly.

BUT it churns quite a lot before it starts, and occasionally misfires during running and -although it re-starts again perfectly well- when driving slowly (stop/start at junctions etc.) it occasionally just conks out.

D'you think it just needs a good service? (spark plug gaps/timing etc)
Or is this symptomatic of something worserer?!

MM

 

[Jay Kilby]

please define "churns"
there are all sorts of things that can cause this.
when was it last serviced?
check your leads make sure there are no soot spots on them if there is then replace them.
how much history do you have?

 

[Stevie A]

Check distributor and rotor arm are in good condition. If they are ok look in direction of OVP relay as a faulty one of that causes hard starts and stalls, along with erratic idle and erratic ABS light. Do forum search for "OVP" for more info.

Change sparks plugs yourself and see if that makes any difference first though as that is a cheap and easy DIY job. Check all breather hoses are attached and uncracked and that there are no pipes blocked where you can check.

 

[rgscomp]

Fuel Pump Relay...

Sounds very like the symptoms of my 2.6 190E auto. I tried the OVP but no joy, changed the Fuel Pump Relay (next to OVP) and all problems solved. Mine was cutting out while warming up, but once hot was OK. Took a lot of turning over to get it to fire up when cold as well.

Cheers,

Ray.

 

[Mustardmit]

Thank you

For your suggestions/advice, I will try them.
(Starting with spark plugs/leads etc.)
Oh, I also forgot to mention fuel consumption seems higher than it should be -I'm getting about 18 to the gallon around town. (Or is that about right for a 1.8?)

Cheers -Seen any good films lately?

 

[Stevie A]

High fuel consumption has been caused by a faulty fuel distributor on someone else's 190E on another forum, along with erratic / high revs. It's an expensive part.

Change plugs first though and then check stuff already mentioned. Also, visually check air filter. If you can hear fuel pump humming / wirring away under back area of car a lot then fuel filter may need replacing too.