1981 1.6 Diesel Rabbit Idles but won’t rev

[MitchelM]

I recently purchased my first vw, a 1981 1.6L diesel rabbit and finally got it running by replacing the injection pump. This is my first time dealing with the engine of a car so obviously my first time timing one. I got it to turn over yesterday and today it began idling but will not take fuel consistently by pressing on the throttle. Not sure what’s wrong, possibly timed it wrong? Air in the lines? any suggestions welcome and questions.

[ORCoaster]

Welcome to daily diesel Delima,  Check this link and I would suggest you read a bunch of the tips in the General tips section. 


http://vwdiesel.net/forum/index.php/topic,16687.msg118139.html#msg118139

Get some clear fuel lines, those are key to determining if fuel is going in, if air is in the mix and fuel is going out.  It may be that there needs to be some adjustment to the throttle and that is not hard to do but you HAVE to make some marks on the top of the plate to know which way you need to adjust it.  The process is outline many times in this forum. 
Use the search feature and see what you come up with a simple Throttle adjustment phrase. 

It sounds like you may also have air in the pump still, IF it won't rev up it won't clear that out.  The battery may not be getting a charge either if it won't rev up to turn the charging circuit on. 

Much to learn, too much to tell you other than do some homework. 
 

[fatmobile]

Possible the vanes pump isn't working.
 Clear lines will show how fast fuel is being pulled from the tank.

[ORCoaster]

Have you tried a bottle of Diesel Purge through it yet?