XTD idling like a boat/train after overhaul

JohnCKL · Post by **JohnCKL** » 04 Jul 2006, 15:11

My Xantia 1.9TD had a full overhaul, changed new pistons, reboring block, new sleeves, recon injectors, new glow plugs, new timing belt. Its difficult to start, probably due to air leakage in overflow hoses or at fuel filter housing. After started, idling sounds like a boat or train, erratic, low and high sound until it is revved a few times, it improves a little. Idling at 900rpm. At higher idling of 1000rpm, it improves a bit. Is there a problem? Perhaps timing problem or fuel pump problem? Will it improve once I drive it? Its disconcerting to spent so much time and money on improving it but the idling really puts me off.

JohnD · Post by **JohnD** » 04 Jul 2006, 16:15

From your description I would say check the timing. The first time I ever did a cambelt on an XUD I got a similar sound on startup - another strip down and I found one of the cogs was a tooth out.

Post by **Peter.N.** » 04 Jul 2006, 17:16

I would agree, double check the timing, its very easy to get it one tooth out.

jeremy · Post by **jeremy** » 05 Jul 2006, 00:27

A couple of points - leakages from the leakoff pipes will ONLY affect engines with Bosch pumps - Roto-diesels just leak and smell.

The filter bowl setup can cause problems. The lid doesn't look like its got a very good sealing system but in fact doesn't seem to cause many problems but the water powered heating system can. To be specific the thermostat controlling this device can leak round its fixings allowing air in. Its the odd looking circular grey metal thing you can see on the left of the filter bowl at the back when looking at it from the front of the engine.

A Roto-diesel pump is can be badly affected by air. It relies on fuel to operate its governing system, which basically runs at full speed unless controlled. This means that air in the right place can cause runaway. I have noticed on my BX that if there is air in the fuel it will rev a bit hard and be undtable on startup. The Bosch pump is different and does NOT suffer in this way.

Post by **Peter.N.** » 05 Jul 2006, 10:18

The difficult starting could also be caused by the timing being out. Leaking valve seats will also cause rough running, were the valve clearances checked and adjusted when the work was being done?

JohnCKL · Post by **JohnCKL** » 07 Jul 2006, 17:20

Thanks for your advice. Seems to be idling rough probably due to new piston rings and new sleeves but after driving for 1-2 days now, it is quite smooth now. Cold start still needs hand primer, will check for sources of air ingress somewhere.