Author Topic: '81 1.6D engine loss of power and lots of smoke - help? (Read 4351 times)

VWLogan · « **on:** July 09, 2006, 10:42:24 pm »

I'm not exactly sure where to turn for help with my 1981 VW Diesel Rabbit Pickup so here I am.

While driving the truck down the interstate, there was a sudden loss of power accompanied by lots of bluish-white smoke out of the tailpipe. I just need some ideas on what to look for. I am very new to diesels.

More info to help diagnose:

Engine is a 1.6 diesel NON-turbo. Engine (and truck) have only 53,000 miles total. I replaced the timing belt about 2000 miles ago and it seems to be well tensioned (I can twist it just under 90 degrees between the injector pump and cam pulleys)

Please help - I love my truck and want to help it get better.

Logan

fatmobile · « **Reply #1 on:** July 10, 2006, 02:19:25 am »

Did you run out of fuel?
A vacuum gauge on the fuel line will help diagnose fuel related problems by showing if they are any resrictions in the fuel line.
If it is fuel related, it could be air leaking into the fuel system, clogged intank screen, tank vent, fuel filter, water in the fuel or you just filled it with bad fuel.

tadleyjane · « **Reply #2 on:** July 10, 2006, 01:20:38 pm »

my in-tank pickup screen plugged about 4000miles after i bought it. it had been sitting for quite some time before that with a broken timing belt and bent valves. i had drained the tank before firing it but i guess the fresh diesel took a while to loosen the tank crud and plug that screen. when it happened, my engine started missing and blowing blue smoke. sounds like yours may have sat for a while too. good luck

burn_your_money · « **Reply #3 on:** July 10, 2006, 08:21:08 pm »

Sounds like the headgasket may have gone on you. Can you start the engine? You should do a compression check.