[Vwdiesel] trying to start after sitting.

[Sandy Cameron]

At 01:31 PM 4/1/03 -0500, you wrote:
>I've finally gotten around to trying to start the Rabbit. It's been out
>of commission for about 1.5-2 years now. I tried to prime the pump with
>some PowerService but what's the best way to get the air out of the
>system? Do you then just crank the key until it starts?

I recommend an "IV drip" a container suspended above the pump feeding by
gravity. about 1 gallon, as most of it will be pumped back to the main tank
as it runs. When the engine starts, do not run the container out of fuel,
shut off before it empties to ensure air is not pumped in.

The IV drip gets around the dry shaft seal syndrome, almost a certainty
after a dry year. No way the pump can suck from the tank under those
circumstances.
Running it wet with the drip will likely heal it.

A brand new battery is often only partially charged as delivered.
Put a low rate (5 amp) charger on it over night. A new battery needs about a
week of on-road use to reach maximum capacity.

Connect a test lamp from one of the glow plugs to ground to ensure power is
getting to them. Even then, I have found that glow plugs that are not
regularly used will fail a short time after going back in service.

Disconnect the battery cable to the starter and the ground cable and clean
the ends with a wire brush, re-install.
clean battery post clamps too.

>
>Also, how fast should the turn-over rate be? It's considerably slower
>than my TDI and gassers.

More likely poor cables and crusty connections

> Might the starter be a bit weak?

  Yes, the brush contact with the commutator is probably a bit crusty, but
once you get it running, it will clean up in a week or so of use.

FINAL SOLUTION , a tow-start in 4th gear (of a 5 speed) almost guaranteed to
start eventually. Cycle the glow plugs while engine is turning over.

THEN DRIVE IT EVERY DAY!

Sandy

The battery is
>brand new...just bought it yesterday.
>
>Thanks, Mike
>
>
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