2nd July - In search of the elusive air leak!

I'm pleased to report that we're getting somewhere at last, having spent 4 hours in the workshop yesterday with a very knowledgeable mechanic.
The first problem we diagnosed was that the lift pump was not pumping very well, and this has been changed. I had fitted the lift pump only 4 weeks ago so was surprised it was not working. Refunded 15 notes from spares place.

We then systematically checked all components, from the fuel sender to the fuel injection pump. We stripped and checked the turbo which was found to be fine, but the waste gate (if thats what its called ) was not actuating, although it was not siezed. We checked the intercooler - that was fine too.

Going back to the pump we checked the waste gate actuating system and found poor / intermittent suction from the diaphragm on the top of the pump. Then we replaced this hose in case it was leaking but no different.

Finally we ran the engine with a jerry can as a fuel supply. If engine had then run smoothly we would know we'd missed something, but that was not the case. There was still a distinct lack of fuel getting through - all pointing towards the pump.

Next weekend we'll be fitting the new pump i got for 45 notes.

I cant recommend the garage i went to highly enough. If you're within range of the Isle of Sheppey, pm me and I'll give you the details.

For example, all the above took 4 hours yesterday, often 2 or 3 mechanics on the vehicle at any one time. After the fault had been diagnosed, and the car re assembled I asked the dreaded "How much" question.

I'm still shocked at the reply " we didn't fix it so there's no charge" . That's pretty rare these days !!!

Obviously I'll go there again to get the new pump fitted.