Poor starting when cold

[ep90]

My 300tdi auto is very reluctant to start from cold, it will start eventually but it requires lots of cranking.  The engine has the EDC (electronic diesel control) system fitted.

This is what I've tried:

1) I've checkd the glow plugs have power.
2) I disconnected the sensor on no.4 injector, this caused the "check engine" light to come and the idle was rough (so I think this sensor is ok)
3) I've tried manually pumping the fuel pump before cranking - this did'nt make any difference.
4) I connected a jump lead from the engine block to the battery earth (in case the engine earth was no good) This had no effect.

Any ideas?  Starting is fine once started initially.

Cheers

[beast5680]

the most common cause would be glow plugs not working, they may well have power to them but are they actually working? my 300tdi was a pig to start when the glow plugs went

[dazzawhipple]

when it starts is there a lot of smoke (white)

[ep90]

beast5680 - Thanks, I'll go and check the current draw on each one

dazzawhipple - Yes, there is quite a lot of smoke whilst starting, mostly light grey colour

[Jake]

It might be worth checking your battery and alternator
Mine was playing up a while ago so i changed the alternator and all is well again.
 :D

[dazzawhipple]

if its done a lot of miles the injectors could be worn and allowing the diesel to dribble out

So you have to crankit over for a long time to 'prime the fuel'

or

Fuel pump worn out


might pay you to check if there is fuel at the injector next time you come to start it

Having said that beast may well be right heater plugs kaput

[ep90]

Jake - Its got new new battery and handles the crankathon of early morning starting so I think the battery / alternator are ok.

dazzawhipple - The engine has done 128k (not sure wether this is considered high mileage?)  

If it stops raining I'll go and check the glow plugs.  

Cheers

[ep90]

Been out with the DVM, two of the glow plugs are open circuit!  Duh!

Thanks for the help guys

Rick