Engine cutting out, Help!

[makem]

Everythings been fine up to now but yesterday I was driving along when
the engine started to lose power. Even with my foot to the floor the engine
just died on me. Managed to get her started after 10 mins but the same thing happened after 4 or 5 miles. This happened 6 times on the way home. Last night I fitted a new fuel filter and air filter but the problems still there. The engine will start will start straight away if I bleed the system, which I did tonight 5 times on the way home. Sounds like air is getting into the fuel but I cant get it looked at till the weekend. Any imput would be appreciated. There are no fuel leaks and all pipes and connections look fine.

 

[richf]

Had the same thing happen on my 1985 230 TE. I found that the green control lead connection with the back of the distributor was the problem. The distributor was shaking the lead loose and the engine cut all the time.

 

[mezza]

I'm no mechanic and as such have only recently learnt that diesels don't have distributors etc

Otherwise I was going to suggest ignition module myself!

 

[makem]

Sorted. After a police escort today, after breaking down on the A1, I limped into Dunston and found a diesel and Mercedes specialist. Problem was two of the fuel pipes ( feed and return according to them ) were connected the wrong way round. This car must have been running like this since it was converted to diesel which was a while ago considering the state of the pipes. After forking out £52 I drove home and the engine was totally different ie. smooth and responsive. Many thanks Dunston Van and Truck Service Centre.