starting

[richardm]

hi all,ive just purchased a 406 hdi rapier,and it was taking a while to start,so ive had a new set of heater plugs fitted but it hasn't improved.i`ve noticed the fan runs even when the engine is fairly cool.is it anything to do with the temp sensor,is it saying the plugs aren't needed because the engine is already warm ?

[Doggy]

Hi Richard & welcome aboard.

The glow plugs are unlikely to be the problem, an HDi will start without them.

What year and what engine version is your car? (90/110 bhp)

[richardm]

90 bhp 2003

[PeterN]

A common cause of poor starting especially when hot is the pressure regulator on the HP pump.

Peter

[richardm]

Its starting on mornings when its cold outside I'm worried about.it starts fine once warmed up

[PeterN]

Ah right. Is it turning over as fast as it was? if not could be that the battery or starter are failing, they need a good bit of speed and if they get it will normally start instantly.

Peter

[Doggy]

The ecu has to 'see' a cranking speed of 60RPM for a second or so before it will commence injection.

Your 2003 90 bhp probably has a Siemens fuel system that relies on HP pump suction to draw fuel up from the tank. It's worth making sure you don't have a very minor leak on your fuel filter / pipework as this can make starting difficult. Check if the priming bulb is firm before a cold start, or see if pumping it a bit first get's it to start more easily.