I have a 86 560sl.Stored for the winter.Forgot to check gas.Ran out of gas starting it each week.Put in about 2 gallons turns over but wont start.Any ideas?
It's possible that the fuel regulator "drained back" and it's going to take some time and cranking again...or...
Running it out of gas and then putting some more in loosened stuff in the 20-year old gas tank and now the fuel filter is clogged, or...
I know from sad experience that the type of electric motors used in the fuel pumps of modern cars actually use fuel to cool themselves. It's very bad to run these out of gas, they can be overheated and damaged...
The first place to look will be if fuel is getting to the fuel distributor at all, and work back. Check the fuse for the pump (keep in mind that sometimes just reinstalling fuses is magical, the aluminum corrodes). WARNING: these pumps (2 of them) move a LOT of fuel very quickly, prepare safely for spills, etc.
I don't want to add insult to injury, but don't do this again! I drive mine rarely in winter, and I've read advice that having a FULL tank in winter storage is a good idea because of condensation issues. With all fuel in the tank, little or no condensation.
After replacing my engine, I had a bit of a problem getting it started. I ended up taking the fuel lines off at the injectors and putting each in a cup, then cycling the ignition switch to turn on the pump until the air was purged from all of the lines. Started right up after that.
After replacing my engine, I had a bit of a problem getting it started. I ended up taking the fuel lines off at the injectors and putting each in a cup, then cycling the ignition switch to turn on the pump until the air was purged from all of the lines. Started right up after that.
You can also prime the system by pressing down on the air intake plate (or whatever it's called) for about 15 seconds or so. You'll be able to hear when the system is properly primed!
I'd crack the return line off the FD and keep cycling the key until you have fuel coming out etc..
As an aside, unless you are taking the car for a 20-30 minute drive each time you start her up you are doing more damage then good. Just idling causes a build up acids on the cylinder walls/oil, excess moisture in the exhaust system, excess gas and combustion byproducts in the oil.. the list goes on;-)
Best bet for winter time, fill the tank, add Stabil, put in fresh oil/filter, squirt some oil in each of the cylinders, pull the battery and pump your tyres up to around 40 lbs.
I also like to throw a few desicant packages inside the car and trunk...Ideally it's nice to swap them out every month.
SMACK THE FUEL PUMP WITH A HAMMER, THAT WILL GET 'R DONE!
[:D]
Seriously though, I stored my 280 SE for a few weeks after it ran out of gas a while back. Same symptoms as you are experiencing. At the advice of my mechanic, I tapped the fuel pump lightly with a hammer and it started right up. I guess the brushes froze up inside the motor. Good luck!
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1979 6.9 euro AMG, 1977 450 SLC euro, 1980 280 SE euro (r.i.p.), 1987 420 SEL, 1958 Cadillac SDV, 1965 Mustang GT, 1971 SAAB Sonett, 1963 Heinkel 103a2 Scooter, 1955 Chris Craft Cobra 21' 1968 280se Coupe
My wife said to me one day "You really need to choose between me and your toys". I miss her sometimes........
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