[JML430]

My '01 ML430 with 245K on it has just recently begun to require more than 1 ignition attempt when starting cold. This has been happening for about a week and fairly consistent - when cold. I do not get the ERROR message on the console when this happens. Once started, it runs great and idles fine. When warm, it restarts no problem.

I do not believe either the fuel filter (replaced at 170K) or fuel pump (still original) are to blame since it runs fine once started. I also do not believe it is the CSP, replaced at 160K, since I recall that was a hot-start issue.

For about the last 6 months I have noticed a rattling during acceleration and thought I should replace my EGR valve but have not done so.

So, I am wondering if I could have a faulty fuel injector or if my EGR valve could somehow influence a cold start?

If one of my injectors is faulty, how would I go about troubleshooting? Or should I look elsewhere?

Appreciate your thoughts and advice.

 

[Witek_M]

ML has tip start. You move key into position 3 (let go) and it cranks for up to ~15 seconds. It starts, starter catches on fire or battery goes dead.

First thing to check is fuel pressure and residual pressure after shut down, Pressure needs to stay up for at least 60 minutes (~50 psi). It needs to go up instantly after overnight rest to ~50 psi with key in position 2.

 

[mrboca]

Fuel pump may be pumping fine but the pump check valve may not be keeping the pressure to start the engine.

 

[JML430]

ML has tip start. You move key into position 3 (let go) and it cranks for up to ~15 seconds. It starts, starter catches on fire or battery goes dead.

First thing to check is fuel pressure and residual pressure after shut down, Pressure needs to stay up for at least 60 minutes (~50 psi). It needs to go up instantly after overnight rest to ~50 psi with key in position 2.

I will get this checked out this week - assuming the pressure is not being sustained - does this indicate the fuel pump is faulty?

 

[art_arev]

Filter then pump.

 

[Witek_M]

I will get this checked out this week - assuming the pressure is not being sustained - does this indicate the fuel pump is faulty?

Best thing would be to check pressure using gauge set for CIS injection hooked up between feed line and injector rail. That gauge set has two valves before and after gauge port. By closing one of the valves you can determine if pressure loss is at injectors or fuel filter/pump.