Semi cold start problem

[Hennie]

Hi guys I came here hoping you could help me. I've got an Opel Astra 1.9 cdti 110kw version.

In the mornings my car doesn't have any trouble starting or when the car is nice and warm also no problems, but say leave the car for 4-5 hours and it's cooled down it really struggles to start. This isn't an everyday problem but when it happens it's annoying. The engine turns but doesn't start, sometimes it takes about 5 mins and then it starts. I've changed the battery and glow plugs, thinking it might be the glow plug relay but not sure. I've had the car at the stealership and they can't find anything wrong. This problem actually started after the water pump was changed by GM.

There aren't many diesel Astras in South Africa so to find help is difficult.
Any help please?!

[jacko52]

I may be wrong but a mate of mine had the same problem or simpler and it was something to do with the feed back pipes on the injectors or seals
I will ask him tomorrow if he is at work
Jacko

[jacko52]

Thinking about it he fitted a hand pump in the fuel pipe because the fuel bled backto the tank
Jacko

[Hennie]

Thanks for the advice mate, I think I'm going to replace the injector seals first to see if it maybe solves the problem. I've noticed that when it struggles to start and then eventually starts the car produces a big ball of white smoke.

[Hennie]

Ok so I've replaced the injector seals but the problem didn't go away, any other ideas?

[Hennie]

Just a bit of background this starting problem actually started when the water pump was changed by the dealer.

[Hennie]

I did the pedal test today, got the following error code P0340

P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Open C-010
P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Range/Performance B-018

Faulty crankshaft sensor?

[Lao]

Check and see if the Camshaft sensor's plug is fitted. It looks like this:

[Hennie]

Ok I went to have a look and that grey piece of the sensor is broken and it wasn't pushed in very good.

[Lao]

Then try to make it stick in one place (maybe use a zip tie) or fit a new plug. Or even better, go back to the dealer and report the problem.