right tried to start the engine today (1.8 ZT), first tried starting it without fuel pump fuse no spark plug to get oil pressure, but the light had stayed on oil was getting round the engine was in the pump and in the oil pickup so the pump was working, just not really sure where else to look. wondering if anyone had anyother insite?

Thanks

 

have you just rebuilt it then? or is it an old engine and sunddenly lost all oil pressure?

 

rebuild

 

The oil pressure needed is so low at idle as not under load, if I have this I just start them, never had a problem.
The other way could be to tow it so you get higher engine speed, or take off sump etc and fill pump with VASELINE.
tabetha

 

so basically your saying just start the engine?

 

Yep, as it will not build pressure unless spinning faster, I also find this on cars that have been stood a long time months and months.
tabetha

 

mine has been standing a while so that would explain some things, just might take i while to start lol

 

Some I started took ten seconds!!, but that is extreme, normally 2/4 seconds is enough.
tabetha

 

tried to start the car today but wouldnt fire, you can hear the fuel pump prime when turn to ignition, the car has flat battery so using jump leads from another car and starting from there had no problems before, the battery light isnt coming on, but did before, checked all the wires earths and such like. What could be wrong?

Thanks

 

Fix the simple things first, ie the battery warning light.
The BLUE thin wire on the rear of the alternator should be earth when the engine is stopped, but go live when running, it may just need a clean, turn the ignition to pos 2, then earth this wire out and see if the light illuminates, if not check bulb, one isde will/should be live when switched on, the other side goes to the alternator, it uses this bulb to complete the circuit to energise the alternator to start the charge process(once rotating).
If this circuit seems dead just touch a EARTH onto the alternator IND terminal where the thin blue wire goes, with engine running this will start the charge process if alt is okay.
tabetha

 

did you prime the oil pump at all?
Have you checked if it is getting fuel through to the front and if it is getting a spark?

 

yes to all three

 

so its getting fuel, a spark at all plugs, timing etc are right and you have good compression?

 

compression is one thing i havent checked!