E280 starting and idling problems

[loucummins]

I bought a very nice L reg E280 in December. The engine melted within three weeks, re-manufactured by Crewe engines at a cost of £4,500. Ouch. Before and after the re-build, the car is a poor, slow starter. The battery is new. Also misses on tickover when in drive. Drives beautifully and in view of expenditure I shall keep it. The only other clue is that the dud bulb light goes on and off when the lights are on - seems to be affected by hrw and braking. Any bright ideas? After a good experience with an elderly BMW 525i, I want to convery to lpg but electrics must be sorted out first. Thought of having ECU tested but the number cannot be traced, even by MB experts.

 

[sunil sood]

re the dud bulb warning-have you checked the rear brake light bulbs,number plate lights and also if you have the wrong wattage bulbs,they will work but the warning light will come on.

 

[Neilc]

Sounds like you have significant voltage drop somewhere or a problem in the charging system. I would have an auto electrician check out the alternator and ground straps, battery connections etc. HRW, brake lights etc all suck a lot of amps. A high resistence ground will give you poor starting problems. HTH, Neil.