603 Starting Problems
 

Ok. So the '87 300TD runs great but I'm having intermittent trouble starting it lately. Here's what happens.

Most of the time it starts right up with no problem.

But, sometimes it takes a long time cranking it. Up to a minute or two. Then it sputters a bit and then starts up fine. It's like when you change the fuel filter without adding any fuel to it and you have to prime the system.

I wonder if fuel is somehow wicking out or if fuel is somehow being sucked out of the filter.

I just tried changing the filter and I topped up the new filter before bolting it on. It started right up.

Now, this morning it took a long time cranking again....?

Any ideas ?
Thanks
Chris :confused:

The fuel lines on the suction side of the lift pump are cracked and leaking. Any time there is no residual pressure in the tank, the fuel will drain back out of the fuel pre-heater, preheater thermostat, and fuel lines so that you don't have adequate internal pressure in the IP at start up.

This can get so bad you run the battery down trying to start it!

Replace the suction side hoses -- if original, they are shot (did mine last year), and the o-rings in the pre-heater thermostat if it leaks, too.

Peter

Thank 'ya
 

That should do it!

Regards