She starts, she goes ... she stops, she doesn't start!

[AlanJHart]

Hi,

My '71 Mk1 has developed an bit of a problem. Starts well from cold (usually) but when I take her for a run (for about an hour around the Chiltern Hills in Buckinghamshire) and park up, when I go to start her again - nop, will not start. Engine turns over, not even a flicker of starting ... then just about to give up splutters to life and is a bit "lumpy" ... next day - exactly the same thing.

One observation I have is that there is a lot of pressure in the expansion bottle - even when cold - noticed this the other day when I was checking the coolant level (I have the car on a slope with the front slightly higher and fill from the top of the radiator). Connected? Not sure ...

Anyone had this problem? Any thoughts? Is off to Enginuity in Action in a week or so ... but I'd like to solve now we've got the good weather!

Cheers

Alan

[Matt]

Sounds electrical - something is getting heated up after you've stopped. First thing i'd do is change the coil as its not in the best position at the top of the engine and could be being cooked when there is no airflow after you turn off.

[Stagsongas]

Hi,

My '71 Mk1 has developed an bit of a problem. Starts well from cold (usually) but when I take her for a run (for about an hour around the Chiltern Hills in Buckinghamshire) and park up, when I go to start her again - nop, will not start. Engine turns over, not even a flicker of starting ... then just about to give up splutters to life and is a bit "lumpy" ... next day - exactly the same thing.

One observation I have is that there is a lot of pressure in the expansion bottle - even when cold - noticed this the other day when I was checking the coolant level (I have the car on a slope with the front slightly higher and fill from the top of the radiator). Connected? Not sure ...

Anyone had this problem? Any thoughts? Is off to Enginuity in Action in a week or so ... but I'd like to solve now we've got the good weather!

Cheers

Alan

Hi Alan,

Take a look at my very recent thread on a similar problem. I suspected the Lumenition CDi unit although the problem was actually caused by the coil. Everything is there on the thread and I hope it helps you to sort it out. If nothing else it may allow you to eliminate the coil.

I don't know how to post a link yet (all forums are different!) but if you search on my username you will find it.

Good Luck

Steve

[AlanJHart]

Dear All,

Many thanks for the advice. I have replaced the coil today ... and it seemed to have done the trick. Took her out for a run around the hills and then switched off for a while and she started first time. Tried again this afternoon (after the rain) - and started and the "misfire" has also gone too ...

Still taking over to Enginuity for a tune and check - as well as a look at the bodywork.

Cheers

Alan