Diesel camper won't start

Post by **adambradford** » 20 Feb 2007, 10:58

I've read the Wiki and realise this is probably something to do with the glow plugs, but before I replace them, can anyone offer any further advice?

My 1.6D hasn't been used at all over the winter, I've left it standing on my drive, starting it up occasionally just to keep the battery charged.

Then after a break of a few weeks, I tried to start it again and it wasn't having any of it! The starter motor was turning over fine until I ran the battery down - and again when I connected jump leads from my Golf - but no joy.

Sounds like it wants to fire up, almost catches, but then doesn't quite make it!

Any advice would be welcome.

Post by **oldiguana** » 20 Feb 2007, 11:44

sounds like the glowies me owduck,marladys diesel took longer and longer as the weather got colder sometimes as long as 15 seconds turnin over before it yawned into life.i'de whip a couple out first and test them on ya battery,if theyre dead get um changed theyre only £9 a piece from a good diesel specialists,and remember when youve got them out fit no1 & no2 glowie to the copper feedbar first then dangle um down behind the pump and into the hole ...much easier..........kind regards..oldiguana

Post by **adambradford** » 20 Feb 2007, 12:41

Many thanks oldiguana... I've just this minute come in after another attempt to start it up, and this time it worked (eventually)!

But I will certainly take your advice about the glow plugs - I see they are only £6 a piece at JK.

Thanks again,

Adam.

Post by **Westy.Club.Joker** » 20 Feb 2007, 15:01

Buy decent brand plugs, it`s a fiddly job, not one you need to be doing on a regular basis

Worth paying the extra for Bosch or similar IMO

Post by **Mocki** » 20 Feb 2007, 15:03

before you buy new Glowplugs, check the fuseable link in the elastic-trickery box in the engine bay, under the relay, and the relay too, glow plugs dont die with lack of use!

Post by **ringo** » 20 Feb 2007, 16:40

Mocki wrote:before you buy new Glowplugs, check the fuseable link in the elastic-trickery box in the engine bay, under the relay, and the relay too, glow plugs dont die with lack of use!

Good point.

A first point of call might be to see if you get 12v on the copper bus bar that links the glow plugs when you first turn the key...

Ringo

Post by **adambradford** » 20 Feb 2007, 17:43

Thanks guys, I'll give it a go.

Adam.