Transporter Panel Van 1996 Reg

[Solitaire]

My husband has a Transporter Panel van 1896cc diesel on a 1996 plate and it has always been very reliable, but recently he has trouble starting it when cold and has to use a spray.

It doesn't seem to have the usual diesel glow plugs, has anybody an ideas please.

Also on the right below the light switch there is a lever like a choke, what is this for ?

Many thanks

[zollaf]

if its got the original engine in it , then it has glow plugs. if it starts straight up with a squirt of easy start, then this is an indication that the plugs are not working. they are on the front of the engine near the injectors. the choke you refer to is probably to increase the tickover speed when cold. try pulling it and seeing what happens.

[onzarob]

try pulling it and seeing what happens.

Nooooo Don't pull the lever!!!!!!...actually I have no clue what the lever does

As for the poor starting, I would say glow plugs, they are a bit of a mare to change yourself, but can be done. Also a quick trick is to disconnect the thick wires connecting them together and test the resistance of each, If it 1ohm itas ok anything else its a dud.

[Sam]

...try pulling it and seeing what happens.

...but hold your breath in case it's the ejector seat lever

[carbon]

The lever is attached to the injection pump and is a form of cold start device, when pulled out it adjusts the injection timing slightly allowing the engine to start easier when cold. Once the engine has warmed up and the temperature gauge needle is above the cold marking the lever should be pushed back in for the rest of the day. It may need to be used again if the vehicle is left for a long period of time between use and the outside temperature is cold.
It does sound like the glow plugs need replacement if this happened suddenly

Heres a link for a topic that includes pictures for changing the glow plugs on a T4 T4 Glow Plug Change

[zollaf]

The lever is attached to the injection pump and is a form of cold start device, when pulled out it adjusts the injection timing slightly allowing the engine to start easier when cold.

that is so boring.
i much prefer mycarsavws ejector seat theory.