Focus 59 Tdci Changed Fuel Filter - Will Bump Start But Not Jump Start

[Adam75]

Hi all. Was hoping for some help. I changed the fuel filter and the car would not start at all. Managed to get it started by bump starting it and it was running fine. No coughing or spluttering. I took it for a short drive and then turned the engine off. Now it will not restart. It bump starts really easily every time but once I've switched the engine off it will not restart. It turns over but will not fire up. Also, it will not start by jump starting only bump starting. I've checked the fuses which are fine and the battery, according to my multimetere, is in a fair condition. Any ideas?

[karlos1987]

You might of got some air in the lines. My cousin had a fiesta and had a tiny hole ( I mean it was less than a pin prick) which was sucking in air and that would not start apart from being bump started. Garage said it was due to the air in the system. Apparently diesels are notorious for not starting if they have air in the system.

[Adam75]

Thanks for the advice. I thought this might be the case too but when I actually get it started it runs really smoothly. I thought it would run lumpy if it had air in it but I don't know this for sure? If it is air in the lines, any idea how to get it out?

[karlos1987]

I'm not 100% sure mate, can't remember what the garage said they did. I know it was a bit pricey considering the part was only a few quid. I know my cousins fiesta had the occasional lumpyness feel but not very often.

I'm sure someone on here will be able to assist you further and hopefully tell you how to resolve this.

I have heard of people priming the lines but not sure how to do it etc.

[TomsFocus]

Firstly check there are no visible leaks at any of the pipes you disturbed, obviously if diesel can get out, air can get in. Though a minor air leak can be more difficult to find.

Ford's do seem particularly difficult to prime after a filter change though. You often need a hand primer and length of pipe between the fuel tank pick up line and the 'in' side on the filter.

[shaunytee1600]

I had this problem. Turned out because I'd naturally undone the fuel filter drain I found out that even when tight it still leaked.

Power is nothing without control .

[Adam75]

Thanks for the responses. I primed the system using a hand vacuum pump. There were a lot of bubbles but I thought I'd pumped enough to get them out. There was definitely fuel up to the injectors. There are no visible signs of leaks so I really don't know what to try next. So frustrating, especially when it runs so well once it actually gets started!

[shaunytee1600]

Did you undo any high pressure fuel pipe connectors?

Power is nothing without control .

[Adam75]

Yes I did. If there are no obvious signs, how do I check for air in the system?

[shaunytee1600]

Chances are now that thers now Fuel pressure the sensor ( the one that looks like a spider) has been actuated to maybe the sensor can be reset .

Power is nothing without control .