147 JTD Starting problems

[njp1066]

Hi

After 6 years with no problems, my 2003 Alfa 147 1.9 JTD is suddenly reluctant to start. The ignition turns the engine over as normal, with all normal lights etc, but doesn't fire. Waiting a while seems to cure it.

The battery seems fine, and when it does eventually start, it runs normally.

Two things which may simply be coincidence - firstly Ive noticed a buzzing/whirring sound from the off-side rear wheel area (which I presume is the fuel pump) which I dont think was present before (or at least seems noisier). And second, when the problem has occured, the engine has been hot having only been turned off for a short time.

I'd appreciate any help, as the car's really unreliable in its present state.
Thanks

[iainfm]

Not starting when hot is a give-away that the crank sensor is faulty in petrol-engined Alfas. It's not unheard of in diesels though...there's been a few similar problems recently.

Have a browse/search through the posts in this forum, and see if the symptoms match yours...

Cheers,

Iain

[Ajr]

pull off the fuel line and see if u got a decent flow.

[njp1066]

Thanks for the replies - Ill check the fuel line asap. In the meantime, although no starting issues today, there's now a noticeable drop in power. Does this help identify the problem (am making the assumption that its related, which of course might not be the case)?

Thanks