Club 80-90 Forums

I'm a newbie on the T3 scene but my '89 1600 desiel's still going strong on 207,000 miles.

I realise that the cold start lever can't work like a traditional petrol engine choke and I'd like to get my head around just how it works!

Also, should I pull it out before turning on the ignition, or just after it fires?

Before, I'm sure

If it's still connected up properly at the injection pump, it slightly advances the injection timing and I think slightly richens it up.

Some are flaps in the bottom of the trim panel with a tell-tale light and some are knobs it seems.

Others will tell you more (accurately) but they do say when very cold helps starting immensely.

You shouldn't really need it , I never used mine when i had a 1.6 d or on the 1.6 td , never got that cold

I think if the engine is in good nick with good compressions and a turbo not dripping oil everywhere they'll start well anyway, as Tick says...

otherwsie, they might need a little help in the cold

I've never needed it. But having just spent a week in the french alps and struggling to start her up (its getting worse here now its colder too) i think i too need to learn how to use it. Mines a bit stiff!

Maybe i need new glow plugs.

likewise.but if i pull it whilst cranking the engine.it pulls out easily ...oh err missus...

Mines a bit stiff!