Benzbit

I used a trickle charger on my 86 300E because I wasn't using the car. After experiencing difficult starts a few times, the car doesn't start.


I have a orange spark, at least on one plug. I changed to an old distributor cap, but no start.


I hear the fuel pump activate for a second when I turn the key. The temperature sensor, crankshaft position sensor, and coil are within ohm parameters.


Starting fluid doesn't work, but the car seems like it wants to start when I crank the starter.


Appreciate any help. I intend to replace the distributor cap and rotor.


Benzbit
Bronson, FL

junkyarddawg

Worn out cap and rotor are very common problems on these engines and sometimes the carbon brush in the cap can fall out causing higher coil output required to run the engine. Do not over look the ignition coil as a possibility. Many of these engines have been operated for decades with worn out caps, rotors, wires, etc and this causes the coil to be overheated as it is constantly operating at "full output".

Benzbit

Thank-you. Plugs, distributor cap and rotor should arrive today.
Benzbit

Benzbit

I installed the plugs, distributer cap and rotor. The car started.

The old plugs were sooty and the car stumbled until fuel in the cylinders was burnt. I haven't been using the car except for short trips and around the property.

I wonder if I have an under lying problem such as a weak coil that's contributing to the filing of the plugs?

Benzbit

junkyarddawg

If you plan on using the car as a commuter it would be best to give it a new coil. Shop around for a genuine bosch coil for your year and model, the last one I bought off the web was like $75, its like cheap insurance. Also, those 103 engines are know to wear out the valve guides, over time, which causes oil fouling of the spark plugs. In the early stages you will see deposits cooked or caked onto the spark plugs, in the later stages it will oil foul the plugs and they will have liquid oil on them. If you find that happening you can try to put new valve stem seals on it if the guides are not totally worn out.

Benzbit

Thanks again. I plan to check the spark again to see if it's stronger (blue, not orange) and may replace the coil (and check the coil wire).