1.6L N/A Hard Starting

[ted.hight]

I have owned this particular Bunny for a couple years now (1981 4 Door), but we've had VW Diesels since before I could drive so we aren't new to the game... Since the cold weather has arrived my car has decided to throw its annual tissy fit.  I replaced the glow plugs figuring this was the problem as usual...but it wasn't.  Once Myrtle is started up she runs, seemingly, fine and starts right back up. 

Anywhere to start? 

Great forum by the way.  I've been searching trying to find my answer, but figured I might as well just ask. 

Thanks!!

Ted

[rs899]

Are you sure the new glow plugs are getting power?  Check for voltage at the bus bar during glow (could be bad gp fuse or gp relay).  If that's not it start looking at compression issues.

Rick

[Rabbit on Roids]

does it stumble or miss AT ALL when its cold? or smoke white? when my engine had retarded timing, it would act like this. and you would have to crank and crank on it to get it to fire. like he said, check for GP power. and if that isnt it, its probably going to be compression or timing (<--hope its this one, its way easier to adjust than rings)

[ted.hight]

The plugs definately have power at the buss bar.  That was the second thing I checked.  Guess it's time to invest in/borrow a compression gauge.  I might change the fuel filter first tho...just to see if that is the prob...

[Rabbit on Roids]

i would look at your timing first. only look into your compression if it misses when cold and then picks the cylinder back up when it warms up.

[ted.hight]

Thanks for the help...I'll follow up with what the prob. is when I find it...