Starting engine problem

Hi, I recently bought a Bravo on an "N" reg. Sometimes it will not fire up when you try to start it. The dizzy is producing sparks no problem. I think that the problem is to do with the fuel cut off system. When you turn the key, the lights on dash come on, then the key warning light goes out and I turn ignition key to the start position the engine turns but no start. Yesterday whilst somebody operated the key I jiggled the wiring & plug connector just behind the dizzy and it started. I thought that this may be the problem ( a bad connection or loose wire) Does anybody else know of this problem or whatit may be?

Also, iis the key a "coded" key. It does not appear big enough but you never know.

All help appreciated.:

SC

Yes mate the Keys are coded. The car has not got a dizzy cap as it is an electronically produced spark.

A few more details would help, what size is trhe engine, does the injector light go out with the key code light, Do you only have problems when it is cold?

the thing you're calling a distributor is a coil pack. they dont really cause occasional starting problems.

i'd suspect the lambda sensor could be the cause if it only occurs when the engine is warm.

Hi, It does appear to be more prominant when the engine is warm. Does the Lambda sensor just plug into the manifold. I can see a plug/sensor sticking out from the manifold, I presume this is it. Also if this is knackered would that cause the engine to run quite flat. When it is running it is not very responsive when you boot it. I used to have a 1.4 tipo with a twin carb on and this used to perform very well (better than the Bravo).

All help much appreciated.

SC

Hi, thanks for reply. Yes the Bravo is a 1.4 SX petrol injection. As well as the starting problem when it is running it is very flat and does not respond to heavy throttle. I thought it may just need servicing. The car has had a bump prior to my getting it and has had a bit of work on the front end. It is a good repait though. Somebody sugguested it may be the lambda sensor causing the "not starting problem" I get the impression that whatever the problem is, it is something causing the fuel not to be injected. I had a similar problem with a movano van and a dodgy coded key, worked sometimes and then not.

All help appreciated.

SC

Hi, thanks for reply. Yes the Bravo is a 1.4 SX petrol injection. As well as the starting problem when it is running it is very flat and does not respond to heavy throttle. I thought it may just need servicing. The car has had a bump prior to my getting it and has had a bit of work on the front end. It is a good repait though. Somebody sugguested it may be the lambda sensor causing the "not starting problem" I get the impression that whatever the problem is, it is something causing the fuel not to be injected. I had a similar problem with a movano van and a dodgy coded key, worked sometimes and then not.

All help appreciated.

SC

The lambda Sensor is probabaly going to be a bastrad to remove. You will more then likely need to apply some heat to it and might have to use a tap to re-cut the thread. You will need a good socket set.

To be honnest the 1.4 is flat, it is not one of fiats best engines and they take a lot of looking after. I have had my 1.4 for about 18 months now and to be honnest I wished i had bought the 1.6 but you live and learn. They like eating camshafts that is because they have an oil feed pipe which blocks up. causing no lubrication to get to the cam but i clean the pipe out with parafin on every service, which I do every 6,000 miles. Also oil. use Selinia Performa which you can get from fiat dealerships, not that expensive either but that oil is for the 1.4 engine.

I have not really had trouble with myn but I have heard a few horror stories. But give them that extra bit of tlc they will last.

I was going to swap it earlier this year but I'm going to keep it for another 18 months, I do have confidence in the car and engine.

yeah lambda is on exhasut before the cat. you remove it with a spanner. its not a hard job, but its not uncommon for the threads to shear off. if that happens a bit of exhaust paste usually does the trick when fitting the new one.