Old engine question - Series One

[cy88]

My little series one is playing up.

I don't drive it very regularly, but it usually starts OK thanks to a heavy duty battery. If I drive it on short journeys, everything is OK.

However, if I drive it for any period of time, and then turn the engine off and leave it a minute or two, it won't start again. The starter motor whirrs away frantically, but it just doesn't sound or feel like it wants to catch? I have a hunch its something to do with the engine getting hot, because if I leave it for 30 mins or so, it starts again no problem?

Any ideas old Landie owners??

Ta.

[greenlandy]

IIRC the starter motor on the older series of motor throws out the cog on a screwthread. If this has any grease or oil on it then the motor spins with out the cog engaging the flywheel. Doesn't explain it after a run tho but it might help.
Matt

[cpas]

Is the starter motor frantically whirring and not turning the engine over (see above comment) or is the engine turning but not starting? This could be due to vapourisation in the fuel lines around the engine bay or in the carburettor. Re-routing of fuel lines or fitting a heatshield between the engine or exhaust and the carb may help with this.

[cy88]

cpas said:

Is the starter motor frantically whirring and not turning the engine over (see above comment) or is the engine turning but not starting?

To be honest its difficult to tell. Whatever is happening, the starter motor turns much quicker and the engine doesn't start. The car vibrates slightly at the same time. Its only started doing this recently.

[p100]

Hi, sounds like fuel vapourisation which has always been a fault with this model.
As suggested by cpas, reroute the fuel lines out of the way of the heat and if a heat shield is not present make one, it will not be difficult.
If you are unsure, replace the fuel line with some clear fuel resistant hose and then watch for air bubbles.
Hope this helps
Cheers Roy

[lansdown65]

Mine does this occasionally if I have been on a long run. I think it's due to fuel vaporisation ( I have a Weber fitted, not an SU)
If you're feeling strong you can always try the starting handle! This would bypass the starter motor if that is the problem. Cheers, Richard.