Hi guys

I own a 1986 ex military 90 2.5 NA

The other day I casually went to start my landy and it I did the 10 glow plug preheat and it cranked for a lot longer than usual before starting. I didn't think anything of it so I ignored it, the next day it did the same but for longer, and then longer the next day and so on, now it really struggles to start. I thought it may be because of the cold weather but it still struggled after being turned off for 5 mins after a long drive.

Any ideas on what the problem is will be muchly appreciated

Thanks oli

Failing glow plugs ?

Maybe even failing starter motor

I'm assuming that the battery is strong and the engine is turning over strongly.

As it's happening when the engine has been warmed, it's probably an issue with air getting in the fuel lines. If that's the case, pressing the accelerator when the engine is warm will aid starting - as a test. Don't press the accelerator when the engine is cold as this will disable the cold start mechanism and make it harder to start.

First thing to check and replace is the fuel leakoff lines.

Fuel leaks are obvious but it's also possible for air to get in through gaps where fuel cannot get out, so sometimes it's a case of trial and error.

Connections around fuel filter etc. In my case, the high pressure injector lines between the injection pump and injectors were at fault as the captive nuts on them had been overtightened and therefore could not seal. It was about £10 to replace all 4.