Engine faults

The following section lists some of the more common faults that can develop in a motor car. The section is divided into various categories and it should be possible to locate faults or damage by referring to the assembly group of the vehicle in question.

The faults are listed in no particular order and their causes are given a number. By referring to this number it is possible to read off the possible cause and to carry out the necessary remedies, if this is within the scope of your facilities.

ENGINE FAULTS

Engine will not crank: 1, 2, 3, 4

Engine cranks, but will not start: 5, 6, 7, 8

Engine cranks very slowly: 1, 2, 3

Engine starts, but cuts out: 5, 6, 9, 10

Engine misfires in the lower speed ranges: 5, 6, 9, 11

Engine misfires in the higher speed ranges: 5, 6, 11, 12

Continuous misfiring: 5, 6, 7, 10 to 15, 21, 22

Max. revs not obtained: 5, 6, 12, 22

Faulty idling: 5, 6, 8 to 11, 13, 15, 16, 21 and 22

Lack of power: 3, 5 to 11, 13 to 15, 22

Lack of acceleration: 5 to 8, 12, 14 to 16

Lack of max. speed: 5 to 8, 10, 12, 13 to 15, 22

Excessive fuel consumption: 3, 5, 6, 15, 16

Excessive oil consumption: 16 to 19

Pinking and running-on (dieseling) 5, 6

Low compression: 7, 11 to 13, 16, 20 to 22

Causes and Remedies

NOTE: The faults refer only to carburettor models.

1. Fault in the starter motor or its connection. Refer to “Electrical Faults”.
2. Engine oil too thick. This can be caused by using the wrong oil, low temperatures or using oil not suitable for the prevailing climates. Depress the clutch whilst starting. Otherwise refill the engine with the correct oil grade.
3. Moveable parts of the engine not run-in. This fault may be noticed when the engine has been overhauled. It may be possible to free the engine by adding oil to the fuel for a while.
4. Mechanical fault. This may be due to seizure of the piston(s), broken crankshaft, connecting rods, clutch or other moveable parts of the engine. The engine must be stripped for inspection.
5. Faults in the ignition system. Refer to “Ignition Faults”.
6. Faults in the fuel system. Refer to “Fuel Faults”.
7. Incorrect valve timing. This will only be noticed after the engine has been re-assembled after overhaul. Re-dismantle the engine and check the