Starting problems. The longer you leave the engine cold the longer it takes…

[lucerne_to_luanda]

Hey there
We are having problems starting our 98 Prado LHD when the engine is cold in the morning. The temperatures are warm so the outside weather isn‘t the issue. The longer you leave the engine cold the more trouble it has starting and the longer it has to crank before firing and even then it doesn‘t start smooth but with a stutter until it runs nicely…
Once running we have no issues at all.
We have already changed our glow plugs and are a bit clueless on what to do.
Many thanks for your ideas and possible solutions

 

[BobMurphy]

It sounds like the old problem of a rusty fuel pipe letting air into the fuel system. The pump has to work hard to suck the fuel up to the filter which is what prevents it from starting. Once running the pump stays ahead of the air leak - until you stop the motor.

Many have suffered this (myself included) and it requires a new fuel pick-up assembly in the top of the tank for a permanent repair (cheaper fixes are available, but may not last long).

Also - check for air leaks along all the fuel pipes.

Bob.