Won't start; possible fuel pump/relay problem; help please!

:dontknow:

Hi,

Can anyone help with this one, please?

I have a Mk1 1983 GTI 1800.  It's been off the road for a while, but has been running, albeit quite lumpy.   Went to start it today & nothing doing.  I ran some checks recommended in Hayes manual.  The plugs are new, with a good visible spark & the engine is cranking over fine.  It looks like no/insufficient fuel getting to injectors.  I have replaced the fuel filter - as I thought some dirt in the tank may have got through - but still no joy.

My checks led me to suspect either the fuel pump, or the relay.  I haven't been able to check the pump - as space is very tight & can't jack up the car at the moment.

The relay is part 321906059D.  Reading some other posts here, it seems like the relay should click when energised by the ignition; it doesn't.  Also seems the pump should make a whirring noise when ignition energised; it doesn't!

As the pump is so difficult to get at [& expensive!] my next move is to replace the relay; does anyone have a spare for sale?

Before I do that, I would appreciate any advice from someone who's gone through the same problem.  Please post any comments.


Many thanks.

You can check if its the relay or not, by bypassing it. Pull it out and use a wire with 2 flat spade terminals in the large holes, to make the bypass.

paul_c,

Many thanks for your prompt help.  I'll give that a try tomorrow; I don't have any spade connectors, but I guess I can get some at an auto shop…. do they need to be a special sort? - or will any do; as long as they fit in the large holes?

Thanks again..

I'd make sure the by-pass wire has a fuseable link in it - you don't want to find out you've a direct short further down the line  ops:

Cero.

Thanks…. the fuel pump fuse is 15A; will that be the right size for the wire link fuse too?…. or should I wire in something smaller?

No that will be fine, remember once you fit the link you've by-passed the relay and the pump will be live as soon as ign is on. Safety feature is relay is timed. If you hear the pump buzz and she fires up then get another relay (second hand is an option but new is preferable). Keep us informed

cheers

paul_c, Cero,

Guys; many thanks for your help.  I bypassed the relay with a fused lead today.  Result; a slight whirring noise from the pump & the engine started first time.

Just need to get a new relay now…..

Many thanks for your assistance - much appreciated!