230E Failure - Random loss of power.

[Russel Weston]

A couple of weeks ago on the motorway, the engine spluttered and died. AA towed me home and advised me to replace Engine control Unit(Silver box inside left hand wing). I bought the  correct unit from Merc and fitted it. All was well until this morning. Symptom almost identical but this time after 15 mins car restared and I was able to continue with no problems. Any ideas. I don't want to spend much and if the car is unreliable then I will go back to a company car. The spec for the car is: 230 E 123 223. 1981 South African Manufacture. Imported 97. 250k Kilometers. Serviced 1k ago, plugs, filters, oils.  

(Edited by Russel Weston at 2:09 pm on April 18, 2002)

 

[Bluelias]

230E Failure

I had a very similar problem with my 1981 230TE. The engine would cut out and die. It would re-start eventually, but would miss and sometimes backfire. After adding fuel injection cleaner and tinkering with a hundred diffrent things it turned out to be the Rotor arm. Although it looked fine and hardly worn, something out of sight must have been wrong with it. Since replacing it I've had no problems. If yours hasn't been replaced recently I would suggest you try this as the cost is quite small.
Let me know how you get on.

 

[Russel Weston]

230E Failure

Thanks Phil, the rotor has not been replaced since I bought the car but I did look at it and ,as you say, it did look fine. I will get one this weekend and fit it. Thanks, I will let you know.

 

[Russel Weston]

230E Failure

I located the problem to be no power to the fuel pump. I have run a shunt and the car is working fine.However this is not a fix. I will get the Workshop Manual as this will save a lot of time. Phil, thanks for your suggestion and I have replaced the rotor anyway, just in case.

 

[Andy]

230E Failure

Hi Russell

Sounds like the fuel pump relay. Situated on the left handside of the vehicle underneath the undertray. Bolted close to the bonnet release handle.

Regards

Andy @ www.mercedesservicing.com

 

[Russel Weston]

230E Failure

Thanks Andy, will have a look this evening. I thought there should be a relay somewhere but could only find 3 on the drivers side near the fuse box. Will let you know.