Thread: DII not keen on starting

Hi all, hoping for some direction. Have 2002 DII V8 Auto, 135,000kms and it does not like starting. Have owned it for 20,000kms and it has done this since taking ownership, but appears to be getting worse.

On a cold start generally starts first turn of the key, but hold starter on for around 10 seconds before it starts. When engine is warm, turn key and cranks over very quickly, but does not start. On the second turn of the key engine fires and stumbles along at 100-150rpm for 5 to 10 seconds then dies. Usually I find on the third attempt it starts. Every now and then on low acceleration the engine will hesitate before accelerating.

Best way to describe it is like a car with a distributor being too retarded. Or... cranking an engine with no plugs in it.

Have replaced spark plugs and leads, and regularly replace air filter. I'm thinking next step is replacing the coil packs, but would appreciate feedback before invest in some.

Resolution finally on above issue.

Finally got around to replacing the fuel pump, turns out that was the issue. I was going to order a new one, spent a month or so hunting around for best price, but in the end picked up a 90,000km unit on eBay. Based on price difference can buy another 4 second hand ones before hit the cost of a new one!

Now starts first time, every time. Funny how the way change to the way the Disco starts can make it feel like a new car!

For those who plan to replace fuel pump, below are my tips.

*Tip1 - in Rave manual states just remove RH side of interior trim. In hindsight think removing both sides much easier, fighting with the carpet while trying to undo the access panel screws is a pain in the proverbial. I accidentally ripped my carpet on the LHS while trying to get to the panel.

*Tip2 - There are two metal straps/springs that fasten the pump in the bottom of the tank to the top of the pump thats secured to the tank. These two straps/springs aren't really mentioned in Rave (other than being called springs in the illustration. They are a pain in the proverbial, need to get both of these springs flush with the housing before can remove. Even more of a nuisance when at the same time having other issues, see Tip3

*Tip3 (maybe obvious to most, is to me...now) - for anyone who does decide to change fuel pump, make sure the tank is pretty much empty. On my long range tank, when started to pull the pump fuel was just at the lip of the tank. When attempted to remove the pump, the springs got in the way, each time tried to pull out splashed a few 100ml or so of petrol. In the end estimate around a litre got pulled through with the pump, and a nice little lake appeared sitting in the well conveniently designed into the long range fuel tank! Inserted the new pump then madly mopped up petrol, and disolved petrol tank paint, through the hole in the floor. Then flushed with water and repeated. The first turn of the key was a nervous few minutes...

Thanks to all for your advice, and steering me in the right direction, greatly appreciated!