New Battery Result

[frogland]

I've been having the the classic low fuel pressure problems in my 2.8 crd.

Hard to start,constantly having to hand prime to start and press the accelerator. I checked the filter housing for leaks,and the fuel filter everything seems ok.I did the leak back test on the relief valve on the rail and that seemed fine so I was really starting to think fuel solenoid on the pump or dribbling injectors.

Anyway today I changed the battery from a 560A 70AH to a 800A 85AH I had to chop the tray but eventually got the bigger unit in place.

Low and behold the car started without any assistance !!

After a couple of minutes the cooling fan kicked in and then stopped ( is this normal ?)

It seems like a different car.

Its early days and we'll see how it goes but it's looking promising for now.

I think i'll be looking at doing the Leedsman's battery mod as well.

[mikebh8]

If is just the clicking without the engine cranking is either the battery or the starter.

Check the starter then.

[frogland]

Everything comes on fine electrically,I can't hear an alternator click from inside, I'll try again tommorrow,such a nice car yet full of Gremlins !! Edited March 2, 2018 by frogland

[mikebh8]

Don't mistake alternator with starter.

Probably just a typing error but to make sure, the starter is low below attached near the gearbox that engages the flywheel.

[frogland]

Unplugged the earth connector on the starter a few times and that did the trick. I'm surprised how easy it was to unplug I'll try and pinching it a bit to create a better connection.

Is it normal for the heater exhaust to smoke a bit on startup ?

[mikebh8]

It means the starter brushes are gone, they can be repaired.

I don't know if is normal but mine does it too, then it does it after the engine is stopped for few minutes.

[frogland]

Sounds right ,it started first turn of the key today I let it run a bit,cut the motor,and then it wouldn't start again until i messed with the starter ground.

And i can remember the same thing happening a few months ago.

So the brushes have to be replaced ,is it do it yourselfable ?

Edited March 3, 2018 by frogland

[mikebh8]

It depends how good yoy are with mechanics...by the time you find the brushes you take it to a local mechanic, I usually pay £10-20 depends. If you don't get them right it can damage the rotor, I prefer taking it to someone that does this for a living.

 

Also keep in mind that playing with the negative (earth) it creates high inrush current that can damage the starter, if not damaged already.

Edited March 3, 2018 by mikebh8

[frogland]

It couldn't be as simple as removing the starter and sticking this kit in ?

[mikebh8]

It is easy, as long as the rotor is not damaged, for the money you could give it a try.