Hard to Start

[DAS68]

Hi- my 96 406 1.9 D is hard to start the first time and white smoke comes out the back for a few seconds. the smoke dosn't stay and the car is easy to start when the engine is warm. is this a head gassket problem?

Thanks, Dave

[steve_earwig]

That sounds more like a glow plug problem

[jonsowman]

White smoke is unburned diesel so it sounds like your pump and injectors are fine. Are you giving it time for the plugs to warm up? My 2.1 needs a good 5 seconds before the coil light goes off when the weather's cold, so try leaving yours 10-15 seconds before cranking.

Otherwise I also suspect the plugs or plug relay.

[gumby6371]

Just done 3 of the 4 plugs on mine and white smoke has competely gone (huge clouds of the stuff before new plugs fitted).

If you want to know why I only changed 3 and not all 4 have a look where they are and you'll soon work it out

[Doggy]

It's a steward of bars, but it can be done and your knuckles will recover, in time.

Only ever fit Bosch or NGK, else you'll be getting additional practice sooner than you thought.

[jonsowman]

Only ever fit Bosch or NGK, else you'll be getting additional practice sooner than you thought.

Second this, got NGKs in mine at the moment

[DAS68]

Thanks all- I will try the plugs. I did take a look at them and they look complicated! any how to guides on here for changing them?

Dave

[Busman]

Ever changed a spark plug? It's pretty much the same, just take note of the bits that you remove and keep them safe.