P38 refusing to start

[whitey0069]

Hello all, I have an Issue with our P38, every now and then it refuses to start, I check all fuses and all ok, but fuel pump doesn't sound like it is working, this is very intermittent and unpredictable. But to me appears to be electrical as after wiggling and checking everything it eventually starts, Does anyone know about this issue. I am thinking of checking all fuse connector to see if there is a loose one. Any other ideas greatly appreciated.

Cheers
Craig:confused:

[Scouse]

So it's cranking but not firing?

If so, you can check for spark easily enough to eliminate that side.

Can you normally hear your fuel pump running? I can't say I've noticed mine while starting the car normally.

[whitey0069]

hello,

Spark seems good but will test next time it happens, but I only hear the fuel pump when it does this, just before it starts and runs. It is very odd, I think it is the drop in fuel presure from cranking and not starting that causes this. but I am open to all helpful idear. Thanks for the suggestion about spark, wasnt thinking that way so will test.

Cheers
Craig:)

[p38arover]

If it's cranking but not starting, check the connection at the crank angle sensor. It's up behind the LH cylinder head. You can see it from below the car. It's a pig to reach.

I had that problem on mine. We hadn't pushed the connector fully home after working on the heads.

My first thoughts are (1) crank angle sensor then (2) cam position sensor.

[whitey0069]

Cool thanks, I will will check those connectors as well, It does run a little poorly for about 2 minutes or so when you get it started so might passably be the cause.

Cheers
Craig

[peacey]

might be a faulty relay. check ignition and fuel.