Trouble starting Disco2

Disco DJ said:

Been having trouble starting the disco2 recently, especially cold mornings. Soon as key turns it either sounds normal and starts fine or sounds sluggish and mostly starts but a little laboured!
Connected plug in voltmeter; Before starting voltage was only 11.5 volts. Could be the issue. Seemed better with radio/air con etc all switched off (meter goes to 11.8 volts)
Started okay then meter jumps to 14.4 volts.
With engine running switched on bits gradually to see effect;

14.4 volts- engine running nothing on
14.3 volts- lights on
14.2 volts- add Air conditioning
13.5 volts- more lights (fog/reverse etc), fan on full, switch on "off road" button which lifts rear end (air suspension)
Anyone know what their voltage is before/after starting?
Needs new battery?!

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Nigel1943 said:

Bad earth or starter contacts worn?

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Disco DJ said:

Thanks, checked earth and tightened slightly. No difference.

Had the "click, click" on starting a couple of years ago and changed the contacts (we're totally shot!) using the repairkituk pack. Had been starting fine since then.

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thebiglad said:

Your battery is no longer holding it's charge as well as it should. Disconnect it, put it on charge overnight, then leave for 1 hour then check the voltage across the terminals. A healthy battery should (after a nights charge) read in the order of 12.6/7 at rest.

Sounds like your alternator is in good condition showing a charging rate of 14.4v.


Dave

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Disco DJ said:

Had to book it into a garage in the end as it just wouldn't start. Gut feeling was air was getting in somewhere. Tried changing fuel filter and air bleed valve as cheap to do and within my capabilities! Didn't fix it.

Got it back today, it was the injector O rings/seals leaking. They've been replaced and all seems fine now!

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