[Trikeopath]

VITO 110CDi CRANKS OVER BUT WON'T START - ANY IDEAS??

Hi
I've got a 2003 110CDi that for a few weeks has been taking longer to start (5 seconds or more Cranking).
Once running it is normally good all day and sometimes the following day until now, when its given up completely.
I've checked the O-ring on the end of the fuel rail and took the head covers off expecting to find 'black death' but it all clean in there. I'm going to change the glow plugs and do the injector seats while I'm in there but can't help feeling that neither of these this will fix it.

Anyone had a similar issue?

This is the offending vehicle.

 

[jimmyjames]

Do not overlook the battery, it needs to be tip top for diesel engine cranking, especially in winter. Charging an old one won't do it...

 

[Trikeopath]

Hi Jimmy,
I already swapped the battery with one out of the other van which was nearly new. Both batteries start the good Van.

I have a spare 108CDi that I keep meaning to scrap. I might take the Pump off that and see if it works on the 110?

Regards
Chris

 

[jimmyjames]

Are fuel lines to and from fuel filter free of air bubbles? Not biodiesel being used?

 

[Trikeopath]

No Air bubbles as far as I can see, but hard to tell without the motor running.

It was running on a 50/50 Chip fat/Diesel mix but not in the last 12 months or more.

 

[jimmyjames]

My last remaining idea, check the starter motor and its circuit/relay. I hope you can sort it relatively painlessly mate.

 

[Trikeopath]

Hi Jimmy,
There is a minor fault with the Starter but it cranks over just fine. Every now and then the Solenoid sticks for a second but then frees off.
It only does it about once a week so if I fix this I'll fit another starter.
I do suspect this might be the end of the Road for this Vito though.

I'm swapping out the fuel Filter and whatever fuel lines I can get to tonight, although I can't see any signs of leaks.
I've got a donor Van to take parts from that was working until I retired it 2 years ago.