progressively slower to start

[stan]

I have owned my 1993 200tdi for 10 years. It has 114k on the clock. Until recently it has always started with the first turn of the key. about four weeks ago the engine had to turn over maybe three times before it fired up. I had the battery checked (which was ok) and new glow plugs fitted. However the problem has continued to get steadily worse. It is now taking up to 20 turns of the engine before it starts. It has not yet failed to start but I feel it is heading that way.

Any suggestions ?

[toppa]

When it is running is there any lack of power or other symptons?

Cheers

[stan]

no noticeable loss of power. Once started, appears to run well. Also starts better when warm.

[ncooper]

Have you changed the fuel filter lately?
Or, there may be air entering the fuel system allowing it to bleed back to the tank.
Nick.

[lynalldiscovery]

Start with the simple stuff when was the fuel filter last changed?
Remove the filter bleed screw and pump the lift pump do you get clean fuel or fuel and bubbles, or if no fuel lift pump u/s.


Lynall

[stan]

filter has been in for about 7000 miles. I do have a replacement and will change it. In the meantime I loosened the bleed screw and primed the pump. It took about 20 strokes before anything happened but then clean fuel spurted from it. Would this be a sign that it is returning to the tank?

Also working on the theory that it may be drawing air, I had a look underneath for anything obvious. I noticed that the fuel tank was damp at the front and underside. As the rest of the underside was dry, I supect there may be a small leak at the top of the tank. Is this likely to be reparable or should I be thinking of a new tank?

[ncooper]

It took about 20 strokes before anything happened but then clean fuel spurted from it. Would this be a sign that it is returning to the tank?

I think you have found your problem.
The leak is more likely to be in the pipework and dripping down the tank.
I suggest you try to locate it exactly,you may not need to replace the tank itself.

Nick.

[stan]

thanks for all the suggestions. I'll follow "the pipework" line of enquiry

[stan]

Problem solved - The fuel gauge sender unit mounted above the fuel tank was leaking and drawing air. As suggested it was allowing the fuel to syphone back into the tank.

Thanks for the advice