Engine problems. Idling mainly.

[fleeb1]

My van will run fine for 5 minutes, then will die when I come to a stop. Starts up again easy enough, but won't idle when slowing again.
Also when I started it this morning, it was revving its bollocks off!

Checked some basics, fuses, fuel filter, connections to the fuel cut off valve.

I'm not sure what to do with the points gap, I know it's me t to be 0.4mm, but I don't really know where the gaps ment to be?

Not sure what I'm doing. Help! :mrgreen:

 

[Tofufi]

I'm not sure what to do with the points gap, I know it's me t to be 0.4mm, but I don't really know where the gaps ment to be?

Not sure what I'm doing. Help! :mrgreen:

The gap should be between the electric contact points in the distributor.

The arm (upper RHS) is opened and closed by the square(ish) cam profile on the shaft. You need to check the gap between the contacts when the cam is holding the points furthest open.

Pictures borrowed from here:

http://www.vw-resource.com/tune-up.html#distributor" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

What air filter does your van have, and has it always had this problem? Is it worst in cold and damp weather?

You might find this page useful too:

http://www.howstuffworks.com/ignition-system4.htm" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

 

[fleeb1]

Tahnks mate. It's a pancake air filter. Still the same today, so the temp doesn't seem to affect it.

 

[sparkywig]

Is the choke element working properly?
I'd buy a workshop manual if you haven't got one already.

 

[fleeb1]

Points all ok. Still not right.
Yeah got the Bentley manual. I'll have to read up.

Not sure about the choke element.

 

[sparkywig]

The Bentley is no good on it's own. You need a Haynes or Autodata manual as well.

 

[fleeb1]

Ah ok, I'll buy one.

 

[neilswheels]

Maybe an air leak, got the same problem on mine, and its looking like an air leak, just not found it yet!

 

[fleeb1]

Thanks Neil. I'll see what I can find on Wednesday.

Good with yours.

 

[kieron]

If your points are ok? could it be inlet manifold icing?
single carb. the manifold pre heater pipe could be blocked. if you feel the manifold, just beneath the carb and its clap cold this could be the problem. when the engine stops the heat from the engine defrosts the manifold and the van runs fine again? worth a look, remedy. new manifold, could be worse! good luck

 

[fleeb1]

Ah....... Massive oil leak.