KZN130 3ltr - turns, will not fire! Help - Tony / Bushwacker...anyone!?!

[Ian F]

Hi Folks,

Have noticed that occasionally starting took more than the usual number of turns, almost as though fuel was needing to be pumped through the system - then after being left out for a cold night, the Surf cranked strongly (new batteries) but refused to fire.

Guessed at failing glow plugs, as later in the day (warmer), she started with no problem. Have also noticed minor leak from the sensor on the fuel pump. Car still turns strongly but fails to give any sign of firing.

No glow-plug warning light has ever shown on the dash, but starting through last winter has been perfect.

Checked glow-plug relay and it did click/buzz when ignition applied. Have removed and cleaned glow plugs, applied 12v and the tips glowed brightly after three seconds. 80amp fuse looks fine.

I have a well equipped garage (inherited), plenty of tools, not much mechanical knowledge but can follow direction.

HELP - any thoughts would be very welcome!

What could it be, what should I be checking?

Many thanks,

Ian

[stormforce]

Pump the fuel primer on top of the filter to see if it goes hard.If it don't then a replacement is needed.If it goes hard see if it'll start.It could be the glowplug relay.Do you hear the click of the relay before you start the truck.If all that is ok then it could be the glowplugs at fault but you'll need to rule out lesser problems first

[Ian F]

Thanks for your reply.

Lift pump is firm - does not start after pumping.

Glow plug relay does click/buzz on ignition 1 - will look at replacing to be safe.

Glow plugs physically tested and glowed brightly after three seconds @ 12v.

Replacing them tomorrow as well as changing seals on fuel pump.

Rgds

Ian

[stormforce]

make sure the jubilee clips on the fuel lines are tight also as the original clips can let air past and into the fuel
Also when you turn the key and you hear the glow plug relay normally about 5-10 seconds release the key and do again and then see if it will fire up.You need to wait for the click and not the light on the dash

[Ian F]

Cheers Stormforce - Will do - they look in good condition however, found the O ring under the sensor on fuel pump was broken and allowing slight leakage.

Would this be enough for the vehicle not to fire?

Rgds

Ian

[stormforce]

could well be thats the problem.Keep us up to date on your progress

[Ian F]

Reassembled fuel pump, new glow plugs, primed pump.

Not too many bits left over, so gave it a go & it started after two turns.

Runs smooth - hopefully problem sorted - won't know for sure until it has got cold overnight.

Will report back - many thanks for help and support!

Updated: Surf starts, stops .... and goes! Issue sorted.

Ian

[Ian F]

Problem solved!

Not sure if it was the split O ring sealing the sender on top of the fuel pump, or the glow plugs (suspect the O ring) BUT she is now running & starting with no issues.

Thanks to Stormforce for taking the time to come back with suggestions!

Happy happy happy!

Ian

[stormforce]

Your welcome Ian and glad its sorted