lumpy idle

[dvm]

Hi
My c180 kompressor has developed a lumpy idle, the agent says I have done too many low revs short journies and this has caused the valves on number three cylinder to become sticky and gummy. His solution is to fit a new cylinder head - ouch this sounds a little extreme. I have tried running the car for a good distance in 3rd gear to try to burn off any residues but on returning home the car idled normally for 5 seconds then faultered and stuttered and the engine symbol displayed on the drivers panel came on again. It seems that the warning symbol on the dash resets itself every so often and idle is normal, then it suddenly goes lumpy again and the warning light comes on again. I would have thought that if the problem is with the valves the symptoms would have been consistant rather than intermitant. Any ideas before I part with big money?

 

[anyweb]

does it drive ok with the maf sensor disconnected ?

 

[dvm]

Ah got me there. Is it easy to find the maf sensor?

 

[anyweb]

this'll show you where it is and how to clean it.

http://forums.mercedesclub.org.uk/showthread.php?t=25775

cheers
anyweb

 

[dvm]

Can I just disconnect the lead to the maf and then start the car or do I have to remove tthe maf?

 

[anyweb]

yes you can just disconnect the lead, then have the car on and see does it act differently/better

if so, you may need to clean the maf as outlined in parrot of dooms excellent howto

cheers
anyweb

 

[dvm]

Thank you - I will try that within the next hour. Are there any 'wonder' products that clean the upper cylinder out to reduce the valve gum?

 

[lackofgrip]

most probably maf or lambda

 

[dvm]

I think the lamda sensor is close to the catalist , is this right? Is this a diy remove and replace or do I need specialist tools? Its raining hard here so I haven't managed to get at the maf sensor but will report if it is successful.