VW Transporter T4 starting issues

[tinokite]

So this is an issue that I can't get my head around.....

I have a VW T4 (last in the series - think its a 2004), its done about 350'000km turbo diesel. When I have about a 1/4 of a tank left it takes ages to start.... I turn the key, glow plug light turns off like normal, turn the key further to start the van and it just chugs for ages without sparking. Sometime the oil pressure light comes on in the process. However, if I get to the servo and either fill it up completely or just get enough diesel in to get it above 1/4 of a tank it starts first time every time (apart from the initial start at the servo).

As you can read, its really strange and it must be doing damage somehow.

CAN ANYONE HELP???

Thanks

[Umai Naa!!]

I'd start with the in-tank fuel pump.

Make sure it's fitted correctly so that it's picking up from the bottom of the tank, and also check that it is actually working.

[jets]

There is a guy called farmsyncro on this forum who had a similar problem. Do a search on his previous posts. His turned out to be split in the suction tube in the tank. I have also read about this problem on the T4 Forum, thankfully not that frequent.

[Umai Naa!!]

Yeah, that's every bit a possibility.

[tinokite]

Thanks for the advice. Is looking at the suggestions easy to do or is a mechanic required?

[The One]

Thanks for the advice. Is looking at the suggestions easy to do or is a mechanic required?

If you are not 'mechanically minded' then I would be taking it to a reputable mechanic, since you will be opening up the fuel system (tank) it is best not to take any chances if you are in-experienced.

[jets]

There is a guy called farmsyncro on this forum who had a similar problem. Do a search on his previous posts. His turned out to be split in the suction tube in the tank. I have also read about this problem on the T4 Forum, thankfully not that frequent.

Here it is.

http://www.vwwatercooled.com/forums/f136/fuel-pick-up-repair-t4-tdi-45964.html