P38 cold running problems

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Rangeymad

New Member
Posts
19
Location
Shropshire
Hi iv got 1999 2.5 dse, iv noticed a problem that when the engine is cold on first start up off the day it sometimes stalls wen put it into gear, is a auto, then when pull away it is really flat and have to put my foot to the floor to make it move then when warms up its fine, also noticed the temp gauge doesn't really move over quarter inless in traffic, but the heater still works fine so thinking that rules out the thermostat, any help will b muchly appreciated
 
Does it start easily?
Have you got a 'hot start' gizmo fitted?
What is the tick-over speed?
When did you last change the engine oil?
When did you last change the gearbox fluid?
Have you had it on any diagnostics?
Have you checked your viscous fan?

First three could indicate that you've got a FIP problem.
Next two could be that you're warming up treacle rather than oil or ATF.
Diagnostics are better than taking a shotgun approach
If the fan is jammed on it could be your cooling issue
 
Hi mate, tick over speed is 1000 rpm, starts like a dream hot or cold, not sure bout the hot start gizmo I havnt fitted 1 myself but could have been by previous owner, just done the gearbox have been getting round to the engine service, is the temp gauge not hitting halfway a problem ? Have had it on diagnostic for the gearbox when it wouldn't go into 4th and found out was in limp mode but no other faults showed up, thanks for any help
 
Tick over speed is way too high, should be 750rpm +/- 50. a warm heater does not rule out a thermostat problem but the high tick over and lack of power could also indicate a faulty temperature sensor for the engine ECU, but as the gauge stays low I would go thermostat & viscous fan as my first checks. Really needs to go on diagnostics otherwise it's all guesswork.
 
Cheers for that mate, best get her booked bk in then : ( something else I forgot to mention I noticed a plug in performance box mounted by the inner passenger side wing don't no if these make a difference to any of the above
 
Cheers for that mate, best get her booked bk in then : ( something else I forgot to mention I noticed a plug in performance box mounted by the inner passenger side wing don't no if these make a difference to any of the above
Start by removing the plug in box as they can cause problems. Put it back when the problems have been resolved.
 
Cheers for that mate, best get her booked bk in then : ( something else I forgot to mention I noticed a plug in performance box mounted by the inner passenger side wing don't no if these make a difference to any of the above

It does if it's knackered.
 
You will need to check the viscous fan is locking up when it gets warm...

Simple test - take a rolled up newspaper and run the engine up to working temp.....then stick the newspaper into the fan...if the fan stops or slows significantly - the Viscous coupling is knackered...if the fan keeps going at a good rate and the newspaper is looking worst for wear...the unit is good...
 
You will need to check the viscous fan is locking up when it gets warm...

Simple test - take a rolled up newspaper and run the engine up to working temp.....then stick the newspaper into the fan...if the fan stops or slows significantly - the Viscous coupling is knackered...if the fan keeps going at a good rate and the newspaper is looking worst for wear...the unit is good...
And before you do the above, as cold running is the problem, check with the engine off and cold that the fan blades can be turned by hand to prove the viscous coupling has not seized.:)
 
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