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Why won't my Diesel Corsa start?

What does pulling the cold start lever on a 1985 Volkswagen Diesel Golf do?

  • I have a 1985 Volkswagen Diesel Golf. It has a cold start handle that you pull out like a choke to start the car in very cold weather. What does it do and how does it work? I know it helps the car start in cold weather and also seams to help the car warm up faster but it does not seem to change the idle speed at all. My guess is that it advances the timing for the diesel injection. Is this correct? Note: This question has nothing to do with how to start a diesel in the cold weather. This car always starts and I have a block heater on it for "just in case". Thanks!

  • Answer:

    Your spot on,it actuates a ring in the pump that alters the pump timing. Later more sophisticated units have a wax capsule to do the same,not as reliable and more grief in my opinion. Ah for the rose tinted days of this pump,makes me all sentimental and reminiscent. I've still got one on the books,it's not just been to the moon it's almost back!! Keep changing the oil.

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Yeah, I'm pretty sure it alters the injection timing. after you start it, put the handle all the way in and see if the car gets "louder" or knocks. that should pretty much tell you.

MartinObviously

Yup. It still will start without, but harder to start, and runs rougher. Basically after starting, you can push the knob back in after going a block.

Come in2 my trap said spider to fly

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