TD5 starting problem related to fuel level

Hi all,

I have a 2000 defender td5 having the following problem. When its full, no problem what so ever, perfect starting cold and hot and runs like a breeze. But, whenever the fuel level is less than full it becomes difficult to get it started, and when its around 1/4 its almost impossible to start. Removed the fuel pump and and looked for any crack in the hoses, didn't find any.

Any one familiar with such a problem or suggestions?

Thanks,
Omar

Did you check the fine filter mesh that surrounds the pump?
Mine used to block up with fine black sludge.
Iirc theres a coarse outer one and a finer internal one.

Of course it could be a weak pump or partially blocked filter.

I always knew when my pump was on the way as it would take a little longer to start, it ate one every 8 to 12 months but I got free diesel and it wasnt the cleanest so couldnt complain!

Iirc the pump delivers 4 bar pressure to the head.

If the fuel pressure is good then I'd think It's probably either a blocked air bleed valve in the fuel filter block, or injector seals past their best, or both.

I'd start by swapping out the air bleed valve since it's an easier job.

If you've access to the tank then it might be worth pulling the pump to see if it's gunged up as mentioned above, leaking injector seals can let exhaust gas into the fuel rail which ultimately will knacker the FPR, block the air bleed valve, and block the pump filters.

Thank you Iynall and Bennehboy.
I removed the tank and pump and found a faulty non return valve in the middle of LP feed line. Replaced the tank and started engine and seemed fine.
Now I have a new problem, after starting, turned off to regather my tools, tried to start again to test drive and it is now immobilized!!!
My landy has no alarm nor a chip in the key!

omero said:

Thank you Iynall and Bennehboy.
I removed the tank and pump and found a faulty non return valve in the middle of LP feed line. Replaced the tank and started engine and seemed fine.
Now I have a new problem, after starting, turned off to regather my tools, tried to start again to test drive and it is now immobilized!!!
My landy has no alarm nor a chip in the key!

Click to expand...

You need to enter the EKA code then to disable the immobiliser it can be entered using the ignition in a defender, or find someone with diagnostic kit, put your approx location in and someone might be able to help.

Jaswilliams said:

You need to enter the EKA code then to disable the immobiliser it can be entered using the ignition in a defender, or find someone with diagnostic kit, put your approx location in and someone might be able to help.

Click to expand...

Don't have the EKA code... Can't I just hack the alarm ecu off?

omero said:

Don't have the EKA code... Can't I just hack the alarm ecu off?

Click to expand...

Nope it sends a magic code the the engine ecu... To tell it to start without it no go..

EKA code can be gotten from a LR dealer.

Where are you located?