I have recently encounted starting problems. I have searched other posts and to avoid a lenghtly description of events I will list what I think might helpmewiththe problem.

2002 C Class 270CDI 47,000 miles full Mercedes Service History.

Engine turns fine and then automatically stops turning.
Is absolutly fine once started though !.
There are no warning lights (other than the usuall ones when starting).
Will not start when mostlyengine is warm- But has failed to start when cold also.

Chance of engine taking anywhere between 2 and20 mins to start is :-
5% in morning after no use all night
70% after I leave the car for 2 hours after driving 25 miles (this takes the longest to get it going)
30% after driving the car 20 miles and then re-starting after 3 mins

I usually drive about 25 miles (to and from work - not much other motoring)
Was last serviced (Main Service 4 weeks ago - had new glow plugs fitted)
Problem had developed about a week before the service.
Problem seemed to go away for 2 weeks after the service.
Its progressivly getting worse (was only now and then now its more oftern)
If I hold the key turned to force the starter to run longer than it should.. Sometimes it works sometimes it doesnt.
Same quality of fuel as allways (No UK supermarkets !! )
I have cleaned the lens on the key (And tried the spare)
Cant see any brakes / holes in any of the supply pipes.
There are no loose pipes / injectors / glow plugs / wires.

I have tried these (Suggested by friends that work on Non Mercedes)
Turn key until glow plug light comes on.. wait 20 seconds, repeat three or five times and then turn the starter motor - No difference.
Turn key all the way first try - no difference.
Releive pressure in fuel tank by taking fuel cap off.

I am an Old Scool mechanic (not knowing much about all these modern engines - but understand the basics) andI cant really offer any further info as to why it is so random because one time it will start on the third attempt and the next the 15th attempt.I think this is a fuel supply problem, but like I say, its all too complicated under the bonnet Sorry "Hood".. and the local Mercedes garage cant look at it for over a week !!!!

I have Autodata but no access to a code reader. I have asked my friends today to locate a local Code reader. Should be able to find somone with one tomorrow witha bit of luck, but, they found no error codes when it was serviced...

Thank you for any help and if I have missed anything please ask away.

Thank you

Tim