Thread: series 3 diesel

g'day all. looking at buying a 1977 series 3 swb diesel. its in real good nik (except tyres are flat at the bottom) its been sitting for a long time and i wouldnt mind firing her up before i pay up. i havent had much to do with diesels so im really after a bit of advice on best way of getting her going without destroying the motor. with a petrol motor i'd get her turning over, get the oil pressure up, then squirt a bit of "start ya bastard" down the carb and cross fingers... wodayarecon...

Depending on the conditions it has been stored in, and the condition it was in when parked........

Check that the engine can be turned by hand (should have a crankhandle, and you should be able to turn it past compression by leaning on the crankhandle for a few minutes). This will confirm the engine is not seized, and you should also find out whether it has four compressions. (if not, pull the rocker cover and check for one or more stuck valves - you may be looking at pulling the head off).

Check you have fuel, and bleed the system, checking what the fuel at the pump looks like.

Check that you have coolant, and that the water pump is not seized and does not leak as soon as the engine turns.

Check the oil in the sump. It is probably black, but that is expected. Better if changed, and it must be changed if it shows any sign of water.

If everything above is OK, fit a good battery and it should start. Unless it is very cold it should start without using the glow plugs unless compression is low - turning over a few times at cranking speed is a good idea as the unburnt fuel injected will act as a cylinder wall lubricant prior to startup.

Avoid using Ezistart, as it can cause engine damage - and if necessary, the engine is sick. Do not run the engine, even for a short period, without the aircleaner.

John