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[GP]

Having some real trouble starting from cold, but not consistently so.  Usually fires on first turn of the key, but then immediately stalls.  I have to then crank it for about 30 seconds before it reluctantly fires (usually with white smoke coming out during the cranking).  When it does fire, it's very erratic, although couldn't start it at all yesterday, but started fine today.  Problem doesn't always happen, but never happens when the engine is hot. Strangely, when I didn't use it for two weeks during my holiday, it started first time on my return.  The glowplugs have been changed, but it made no difference (they were also tested to check they're getting a voltage) .  I've noticed that the glowplug warning light doesn't seem to stay on very long when it's bad, but could be coincidence.  Anyone got any ideas ?

[Del Boy]

Could be an injector problem?

[tunnie]

more likely the pipwork to the injectors, check leakoff pipes 

[VXL V6]

more likely the pipwork to the injectors, check leakoff pipes 

If possible you can try parking it nose down on a slope to help prove the above.

[GP]

Thanks Tunnie.  Removed the cover secured with the four screws and had a quick look.  Are the leak-off pipes the cloth covered pipes joined with a T-piece?  Exactly what do they do and what am I looking for ?  It looks like I need to remove the camcover to gain full access ?

[GP]

ps it always seems to happen/not happen when parked on the level.  Where I live there aren't many slopes!

[Elite Pete]

If you've still got the cloth covered pipes your probably best changing them anyway

[Brikhead]

Are the leak-off pipes the cloth covered pipes joined with a T-piece?  Exactly what do they do and what am I looking for ?  It looks like I need to remove the camcover to gain full access ?

The leak off pipes carry excess fuel from the injectors back to the fuel pump. Over time theses perish and allow air into the fuel system, this causes the fuel to fall back from the pump to the fuel tank.
If replacing the leak off pipes doesn't help then look to the injector top seals.

[GP]

Thanks Brikhead.  Presumably my Vauxhall dealer will be able to supply and will know them as leak-off pipes.  Any idea if they come as a set (there seemd to be several joined with T-pieces), or do buy them individually ?

[martin42]

You can get the pipes etc from local motor factors

[hoofing it]

Having some real trouble starting from cold, but not consistently so.  Usually fires on first turn of the key, but then immediately stalls.  I have to then crank it for about 30 seconds before it reluctantly fires (usually with white smoke coming out during the cranking).  When it does fire, it's very erratic, although couldn't start it at all yesterday, but started fine today.  Problem doesn't always happen, but never happens when the engine is hot. Strangely, when I didn't use it for two weeks during my holiday, it started first time on my return.  The glowplugs have been changed, but it made no difference (they were also tested to check they're getting a voltage) .  I've noticed that the glowplug warning light doesn't seem to stay on very long when it's bad, but could be coincidence.  Anyone got any ideas ?

Does the white smoke start as soon as the engine is turned over or does it do it almost before it starts.
As others have said change leakoff pipes and don't buy them from dealers use a motor factors.(the pipe comes in one length you cut and fit)

[GP]

Thanks.  As I remember, white smoke starts after about 5 secs, then continues as I carry on cranking, during which you get the odd cough of life until eventually it fires into life.  When is finally does fire, huge quantities of white smoke.

[hoofing it]

The lift pump in the tank could be failing or failed this will explain it starting then cutting out after 5 seconds as its used the fuel in the injector pump now the injector pump is trying to draw fuel itself.
I'm not sure but I think there is a none return valve/hand primer on the fuel line on the 2.2 someone might clarify this.
Have you tried keeping the fuel tank full to see if it helps with starting

[GP]

Thanks.  Now you mention it, currently running with a full tank and I've had no problems.  It's intermittent so may be simply coincidence, but will see if tank level affects it.  I've ordered some leak-off hose and will replace as advise above.  How difficult is it to replace pump in the tank ?

[Elite Pete]

The lift pump in the tank could be failing or failed this will explain it starting then cutting out after 5 seconds as its used the fuel in the injector pump now the injector pump is trying to draw fuel itself.
I'm not sure but I think there is a none return valve/hand primer on the fuel line on the 2.2 someone might clarify this.
Have you tried keeping the fuel tank full to see if it helps with starting

The 2.2 diesel doesn't have a lift pump in the tank, its all done by the injector pump and there's no hand primer fitted from the factory but its a good idea to fit one