Engine not starting

[moomoo]

Hello
I have the peugeot 1.9TD engine in my camper. it's a 1998.
The engine only has 26,000 miles on it. (not that it makes any difference!)
It normall y starts at the first flick of the key once the heater plug light has gone off.
Yesterday it started but only for a second or two....and then stopped abruptly ...I tried to start it again and it felt like the starter had jammed...it was just clicking.
I checked the battery ...it was fully charged.
I tried again but it just kept clicking as though the starter motor was stuck.
I came home later and tried it again ...this time it turned over but it wont start...it's trying to start but just won't....loads of black smoke as it splutters and tries.
I'm wondering if the timing has somehow been affected....have the belts ever been known to jump a tooth?
It's normally a very reliable first time starter.
Any advice would be appreciated.
Thanks

[RichardW]

Not unknown for belts to break or skip a tooth or two. I'd get the covers off and have a look at the belt.

[moizeau]

What happens if you run a 12v direct feed with a jumper cable to the starter bypassing the solenoid? Make sure it's in neutral or you'll run yourself over.