I've recently bought a 89 XR3i manual fuel injection and I have problems starting it when cold. It takes several goes to get it to start usually while pumping the accelerator.
Since getting the car i have changed the cold start valve (with which i presume is a working one). I have also change spark plugs, dizzy cap and rotary arm, and HT leads to try and rule out the ignition side of things.
I have also done a full service and while changing the fuel filter i checked fuel was coming in and out o the new one and that fuel was present at each point of the fuel distributor (under the bolts for each pipe)
The fuel pump primes when starting and fuel is definitely coming through to the point of fuel filter.
When it does start it runs quite ruff and idles above 2000 rpm (however this might be deliberate by a previous owner to stop it cutting out when running)

Anyone got any ideas on what to check next??

 

One other thing aswel is that when the engine does finally start and is running, there is a hissing coming from somewhere near the warm up regulator or around the intake manifold, could this be a vacuum leak? And if it is, could this cause the symptoms I am getting?

 

Air leak and yes that would cause your problems, could be a gasket, crack, or something loose

 

Thanks pal!
Think best bet is to find the leak and get it sorted then!
Out of interest have you ever used that gasket seal paste?
Is it worth a try as a temporary fix?

 

It's cost just as much as a gasket so ain't worth it, I have in the past as a temp fix but best to use the right paper gasket

 

Looks like it was the vacuum leak!
Had a listen around the engine and found the noise to be coming from the carb where it meets the inlet manifold. So I put some gasket sealant around the meeting edges, started it up again and could still here a slight hissing coming from the cold start valave injector. Took that out and put some sealant around it again. After letting the engine cool I started it and it has never sounded better!!
I have also started it a few times through out the evening just to make sure and it starts first time spot on!

Still running a bit ruff on the idle and definitely over fueling but this is obviously down to the mixture setting and idle setting which a mate of a mate said he will sort for me as he knows carbs very well and I don't really know what I'm doing with the mixture screws etc....


Thanks again mate much appreciated!