W210 E300 TD will not start after replacing battery

[Dunx]

Hi all, not too sure where to post this, but I'll start here...

I have just replaced the battery in my '97 E300TD Estate. The car started fine just before I removed the old battery. Now when I try and start, the engine will crank, but will not start. It's as though there is no fuel, even though the tank is full (filled-up yesterday!!)

Any ideas?

TIA

Dunx

 

[MondeoMan]

Your immobiliser is not playing silly buggers is it (red and green lights blinking when you crank it)? If that's OK, I'd check the fuses.

 

[Dunx]

Thanks for your help, but not sure where to look for the red/green LED's, as I have the auto dimming rearview mirror, but can't see them anywhere. Would the engine still crank if it was the immobiliser? I'm sure I can hear the fuel pump 'whirr' when I turn on the ignition (interior fan off). I had a look for the fuel pump fuse, but there is no fuse in the location stated on the card (position 6 under rear seat)?!? I'm really confused here!!

 

[230K]

Hi

There isnt an electric fuel pump on the 210 E300TD, have a check around and make sure you have not missed any wires, also try and disconnect battery again, is your key a flip key or the plastic thing. Either way make sure to operate locking system a few times try holding down button etc.

230K

 

[Dunx]

Thx 230K. I have the non-flip key, the plqstic one. I tried locking and unlocking a few times already without any difference, although didn't try holding down the button for any length of time. I'll give this a bash.
It sounds as though it may be air in the fuel lines, as it's trying to start if I leave the engine cranking long enough (15 - 20 seconds).

 

[Dunx]

Finally managed to get it to fire after a lot of cranking. I now have a nice puddle of diesel on my drive, roughly where the fuel filter and pump are. Is this normal with the self bleeding system? Is air in the fuel lines fairly common, or could this be caused by another fault?

Thanks,

Dunx

 

[roylance]

I have experienced starting problems with my diesel only last week. his has now been solved by replacing the seals on the fuel line. Furthermore there was also a slight split in a fuel line.

It may not be the answer but it is something to consider.

Hope things get sorted for you

 

[Dunx]

Thanks roylance, I'll look into that.