I have a 1988 560sl that is an occassional driver. It has 120,000 miles on and has never given much trouble. It had not been driven in 6-8 weeks and when I tried to start it, the engine would spin but not start. It has a new fuel filter and fresh gas in the tank. I was concerned that the fuel pump relay had failed but when I check the pump with a test light, it operated properly. The part that I can't figure out is that when I first try to start it, the engine will fire as if to crank but then just spins. If I walk away for thirty minutes or so and try it again, it does the exact same thing, the engine fires and quits. I put fuel down the intake and it will fire and run for a few seconds and then cut off. Can the fuel system have air in the line? I'm not very familiar with fuel injection systems. I had a car in the past that had been parked for a long time and the fuel solidified and clogged the lines. Any chance this is my problem? Any ideas?
Thanks

 

My wifes 87 560SEL has a similar problem as champs560. Hers starts right up when it's cold. She drives it to the store or across town, then it won't start....when it's warmed up. If she lets it sit for 15 or 20 minutes...it starts. Once ni a while it will stall turning a corner as well. I really feel it is a fuel issue. I replaces both fuel pumps a year ago....it seemed to help, for a while. We love the car...it's a classic. but we need to address the stalling and mot starting. Anybody have any clues? Thanks.

 

Champ560 if you want to see if the the line is clogged, check what is coming out the injectors and spray patter. Best way of course is to make sure you dont spray hot surface or better yet, into a container of some sort. Another thing is geta quick compression check.

The warm starting prob. might be the result of the fuel accum. kicking bucket.

 

Thanks BlackWolf! Fuel Accum. kicking bucket? Hmmmm, something I could repair myself? I appreciate your input.

 

Fuel accumulator is around 125 bucks and simple to change.
I've had a couple of Benzes with the hot start issue and replacing the fuel accumulator fixed it each time.

 

10 mins if that, screw driver maybe pliers to help witt the hose pulling and something to catch any gas you might spill if you wish, pop the new one on and be done.

 

Thanks guys....I will try the fuel accumulator. I really appreciate the input.

 

One more question: Would I find the accumulator in the engine compartment? Near the fuel filter, or in between? Thanks.