Wet weather start problem

[Tosh]

Hi. My 230e (1990) doesn't like the damp. When not garaged overnight and won't start I resort to 'quick start' in the intake, application of blow heater around engine and cranking on and off for up to an hour, helped by booster battery charger. Tho even that isn't working now! (water dispersant no help).

Mercedes had checked it over 6 mths ago and renewed the distributor cap (old one cracked they said). Better for a time, tho got bad again. More likely to start if driven previous day. In France now w/o garage, nearest merc agent 50 km away and the french isn't too good! am not technical (as probably apparent!). At wits end! Any advice welcome. Thanks

Tosh

 

[Stevie A]

If the distributor has the black plastic cover on it remove it as they are just a dampness trap. Next time it fails to start remove the distributor cap and see if there is water getting into the distributor.

You could try a new set of spark plugs as this is simple and will help a bit. it may be that the leads are getting damp, so you could try running a hair dryer over them in the morning if it is damp.

 

[Tosh]

Thanks Stevie, yup the plugs. Sorry for the delay tho still recovering from the diagnosis here. Should have sorted it myself, but no it was a wet morning and we were stranded. Called the nearest good sized garage (large well known french car distributor) and the mechanic came out. Air filter housing (and fuel supply line I guess) was removed and he asked me to turn the ignition. A hurried raise of his hand, and minutes later request for ignition again. As I turned the key I could see, between the dash and the bonnet, the flames leap up from the engine. The mechanic blew on the now foot high flames, and that was it I thought.
The dog blanket was on the back seat I remembered, and between us in what seemed an age the fire was out.
No serious damage. Should have told him it was the plugs!!
Hope this tale might help someone, certainly it has brought home to me the volatility of petrol - and to be prepared.
(ps Apart from the incident the mechanic appeared professional & would hope its one of those things that rarely occurs)

 

[Stevie A]

Hey Tosh. Glad your sorted. If it happens again look for damp distributor or HT leads.