Strooth!!

[rvtrvt]

After entering a topic help needed regarding a tick over/idle problem, i have carried out the instructions offered and searched the site for everything with the word idle in it. Crikey!! is there a wedge owner with one that ticks over regularly and starts regularly hot or cold?...what a mine field! I've printed off a short book to take with me to my local classic car garage for guidance. I hope he doesn't need it but it does all look very relevant to my problem.
I am taking it back to him after he had replaced the vacuum advance and retard unit as he said it leaked. He also replaced fuel filter, plugs and made a note that said "throttle control air box shaft was worn" also "volume control screw loose in threads."
I drove it home ok but it developed the same problems that day so it's back this week for the next visit re-work on his notes.
Do you think he's on the right track?-i hope so!...I'll let you know.

[snowy white]

I posted a query some weeks back as I have an occasional intermittent high idle (up to 2500) on my 400SE, the reply came back that 'they all do that'. I have checked for throttle sticking & also the stepper motor is clean, really bizarre!
I have no issues with poor hot/cold starting though.

[adam quantrill]

First thing you do is change the engine temperature sensor.

These can go open circuit intermittently or change
temprature/resistance profile with age.

Takes 5 minutes to do - make sure the engine is cold
or fluid will squirt out though!

[rvtrvt]

Many thanks Adam, will try this SAP.

[snowy white]

Thanks also for the tip Adam, I'll be on the case at the weekend!

[rvtrvt]

Hi Adam,I took your advise and fitted a new engine temp
transmitter,started up fine and drove round the block
six or seven times just to get my confidance back if it was going to cut out and not start I'd only have a short walk home I even tempted fate and drove to the garage for fuel it restarted fine and drove home.but today it would not start I took a plug out and no spark when cranking, checked connections everywhere
but still no spark,I have an ignition module on order.It's gone from one day running fine to not even starting? Any views are greatly received.

[kevinday]

Check the connections for the ignition module, my 350i dropped four cylinders on occasions, it was a loose multi-connector.

[rvtrvt]

Problem solved, changed the ignition module and started first time and has continued to run with no probs have had a superb Sunday.
Many thanks for all advice have learnt a lot in the last few weeks.

[kevinday]

I'm glad it's sorted now, best wedging to you.