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Dan_Johnston · 06-13-2017, 07:14 AM

2008, V6 no DEF.
yesterday in WY, I used two tanks of bio-diesel. Pulling off the main road, there was no power, would down and up shift manually but even with 4,000 rpm, no power. No check engine lights or fault codes (ScanGauge). On flat ground it would get up to 65 mph but hills were down to 20 or so. I pulled over, turned engine off then on and still had the problem. Next tank of diesel was standard non-bio fuel it ran perfectly. Strange that changing fuel blend would make difference but that is the only thing I can thin of.

Anyone experienced this issue?

dan

DennyR · 06-13-2017, 01:02 PM

What kind of Diesel engine are you running? 4000 rpm seems pretty high.

Mr_D · 06-13-2017, 01:14 PM

Yep, I don't know of the any well known brands that will run 4,000 rpm.
Your fuel filters are probably clogged from the bio diesel. Usually diesels can't use over about a 5% blend unless modified to use it.

RobbieH · 06-13-2017, 01:17 PM

What diesel is a V6 in a 2008?

Is this the first time you've run biodiesel? If so, it's quite likely that you cleaned out your system and clogged the fuel filter. It isn't strange at all, biodiesel is an excellent solvent and will clean your fuel system, which unfortunately clogs the filter.

Old Crows · 06-13-2017, 01:23 PM

Just a guess: 08; V6; diesel; no DEF (but a DPF). w/ t speed automagic trans. A reference to once using using bio-diesel.

Sounds like an early Mercedes Sprinter turbo 3L V6. MB has a continuing recommendation to not use > B5. (We can discuss what that may or may mean some other time.)

Without data.... The infrequent use of > B5 use is likely not the problem.

Without more data.....the loss of power under heavy load is likely due to the splitting, or separation of, the induction hose between the turbo output and the intake manifold. A known issue with early 3.0L V6s.

And, yes.... a MB 3.0L turo V6 can easily make 4K RPM....

DennyR · 06-13-2017, 02:04 PM

I've learnt something for the day![emoji846]

tderonne · 06-13-2017, 03:16 PM

Father-in-law's 2008 Sprinter based Navion does this every once in a while. Same deal, reduced power (pedal is almost dead - clearly the torque request in being limited), no boost, no MIL or other warning lights. I have not been able to check the codes when it happens though. He took it to a dealer once about it, and they replaced a battery cable or something like that. Said it had a low voltage code. But his motorhome sits a lot and batteries do get low. Thought it might be due to the alternator trying to charge three batteries, not something Mercedes really designed it to do.

But the problem still pops up no and again. So I guess I can't offer more than a "you're not alone".

CharlesinGA · 06-14-2017, 08:35 AM

Bio is said to be a solvent when it comes to how it acts in the fuel system. By all means replace the fuel filter. The filter on the V6 models, depending on year and exact installation can be any one of about six different part numbers, and they are not interchangeable. Some are quite expensive.

Also check your air filter, and inspect the turbo hoses, as they (as noted above) are prone to splitting and leaking.

What tderonne is describing is most likely "Limp Home Mode" which is different than what you are describing.

Charles

Old Crows · 06-14-2017, 03:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by tderonne

Father-in-law's 2008 Sprinter based Navion does this every once in a while. Same deal, reduced power (pedal is almost dead - clearly the torque request in being limited), no boost, no MIL or other warning lights. I have not been able to check the codes when it happens though. He took it to a dealer once about it, and they replaced a battery cable or something like that. Said it had a low voltage code. But his motorhome sits a lot and batteries do get low. Thought it might be due to the alternator trying to charge three batteries, not something Mercedes really designed it to do.

But the problem still pops up no and again. So I guess I can't offer more than a "you're not alone".

The infamous "Y" cable is also an issue on some older Sprinters. Causes all kinds of problems and unless you know to check it, it can be a big pain.

The '08 Sprinter should have a 220A alternator. That is more than enough power to run all the electrics and charge the three batteries simultaneously.
Going back to the "Y" cable, it would be good to check it if there is a problem. Heck, just replace it.... cheap (well, you don't need a second mortgage!!!) insurance.