Problems starting Freelander in damp conditions

[JamesAlty]

We have a Freelander 50th Anniversary Edition - S reg. We have been very pleased with it and it has been generally reliable. However, recently it has failed to start several times on damp mornings. The main dealer has had one attempt to cure the problem and claimed to have found and fixed a loose connection, though I am not sure where. It turns over fast enough, has fuel but does not fire at all. I have not checked for spark etc. When it next starts after the problem, it does so with a distinct "pop". I have seen posts about the "spider" / immobiliser problems when cold, but am not sure if this applies to the FreeLander and anyway our problem seems to be more to do with humidity than temperature.

Nice forum BTW.

[JamesAlty]

I think I just found the answer to my own question on myfreelander.com! This includes a reference to "difficult starting in damp conditions" and explains it is caused by a loose "King Lead" on the coil. The lead is subject to vibration from the air box and a new lead was issued with better seals and different routing advice. I'll have a look in the morning to see if this is the cause.

Typical isn't it - you search for two hours and find the answer 30 seconds after posting a question. What a newbie muppet!

[gmzez]

Do let us know if this is in fact the problem.....

[TEMPL4R]

Bad starting in the damp is usually down to bad ignition leads. They are carbon impregnated string ( basically), which breaks down after a time.

We change a lot of leads, which cause misfires. Due to wasted spark coils, that makes the engine misfire on 2 cylinders. They also cause the newer coil packs to break down. Renaults, Audis and Vauxhalls seem particularluy prone.

Chris