Thread: 1998 300TDi intermittent starting issue - which parts to I need to replace?

I replaced the whole assembly…..but my issue was the key

You could try the switch first.

Also check spade connection at the rear of the fuel shut off solenoid. If they corrode can be difficult/cranky to start.

I've just had the exact same issue start to happen, but no luck finding another thread so I'm very happy to see this. 1998 300tdi, no power to starter motor, so far has only occurred when the car is hot.

If you do find the culprit please post, very interested in the failure mechanism and why the car temp is a factor.

I am working on the theory that an electrical connection somewhere inside the ignition switch has let go and looses contact causing the failure. Mine is the original and at 23 years old/340,000kms, it's anyone's guess as to how many times the key as been put and turned.

Say if the car has averaged being started twice a day over 23 years......that nearly 17,000 times!

The fuel cut off solenoid should not stop power to the starter motor. If there is a loose (or dirty in my experience) connection at the cut off solenoid, the car will crank but not fire.

Originally Posted by 86mud

Hi all

My 1998 300TDI 130 has developed a starting issue. Seems to be when the car is hot. I turn the key and no power feed is getting to the starter motor.

I have narrowed it down to the ignition switch. I thought I just needed to replace the ignition barrel, like this:

Land Rover Parts - IGNITION LOCK ASSEMBLY - COUNTY (ALL PETROL MODELS) & DEFENDER (200/300tdi, TD5, PUMA) (includes switch) (DOES NOT INCLUDE CLAMP & BOLTS)

But I see there is also this:

Land Rover Parts - IGNITION SWITCH DEFENDER

Do I need to replace both?

Thanks

Just the switch if the key is turning properly.

I've had the intermittent thing happen when warm / hot and it was the switch. You can take them apart by playing with the alloy casing and playing with the copper dimples inside but IME it's a very temporary solution.

The barrel in mine is not much chop again, found out I shouldn't have 20 keys hanging off the ignition key.

DL

I bought an entire new ignition barrel with switch (Lucas branded).

and success...starts much more positive now.

Getting the original snap bolts out was a little tedious, but a new set of easy outs did the job.

I've now got the other task of removing the door key barrels and taking them to a locksmith to be keyed alike with the new ignition key.

Friday night's jobs are done.