Cabby idle problem 1.8 GTI

Apologies if this is a repeat question, but am currently having idling problems on my recently aquired '88 Cabby.

After getting it to turn over, it fired up but instantly stopped. The fuel pump primes (albeit noisily) and after checking the in tank lift pump confirmed that the filter was clear (although theres rust and other crud in the tank). A replacement fuel filter was fitted next although there was no gunk in the old one.

I then noticed that an air line from the the vacuum unit on the distributor to the back of the throttle valve housing was not connected. Reconnected and hey presto, she burst into life and idled perfectly….for about 60 seconds

Now although the engine starts, it refuse to idle and seems to surge a couple of times before dying completely…..

Am I missing something obvious? Another air leak somewhere?

 :dontknow:

have you checked if the lift pump is working? disconnect a wire from the main pump and turn on ignition or crank it, listenign for the lifter. if it makes no sound then its broken or the wiring is faulty. note that even if it makes noise it may be buggered! mk2 lift pump is the same, gsf sell them

Thanks John, job added to weekend list

Thanks John,

Not fully resolved but a step in the right direction. Replaced the lift pump and could hear both pumps on turning the ignition. Still had the issue of it running for a couple of seconds before stalling. Next thing was to check the relay, I've bypassed using an inline switch and fuse and can hear the main pump continuously fuelling when the ignition is on.

Turned the engine over, and she will run, but only if I keep the revs. I'm wondering if there is not only as issue with the relay (which I’ll replace), but maybe something else? The dizzy cap, rotor and leads are all new, though the coil does look older.
 

Update…

Relay replaced and car sounds fine when turned over, but simply wont idle. Sounds like its gasping for air or fuel. Revs up and down on its own for a few seconds then cuts out….

its possible the main pump was damaged by fuel starvation, or perhaps the engien just needs setting up. do all the usual tricks first, look over EVERYTHING for air leaks, damaged wires etc