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I have a 1.8 non-turbo diesel Escort van, 1999 (V) model with 105,000 miles on the clock. When I bought it there was abox in the back with timing belts and pulleys in, so I have assumed these have been replaced.
The power is extremely low, though it is relatively smooth.
I have to use at least 50% throttle to get the revs up for pulling away, though the cable is not loose.
Despite the lack of performance I only get about 40mpg.
There is not excessive exhaust smoke.
I have changed the fuel, air, and oil filters.
I have used a diesel injector cleaner additive without success.
A mechanic has checked the belts and confirmed "the timing is correct", though without special tools and without removing the cam cover.
The tappets sound a little noisy (rattly) like they have too much clearance.
The injection pump is Lucas CAV.
I am about to have a specialist diesel fitter check the timing again. he says he will have to remove the alternator to check it properly, and stressed that it only needs to be a smidgeon out to run poorly, and he can adjust the pump timing by very small amounts.
My questions for the learned are:-
1. Does the specialist have a valid point, so is there a good chance of improvement from his work (and my half day without work)?
2. How long does it take to re-shim the tappets, and would it be worthwhile having them done at the same time, though I'd rather do one change at a time and see the results of each?
3. What else should I be focussing on?
The power is extremely low, though it is relatively smooth.
I have to use at least 50% throttle to get the revs up for pulling away, though the cable is not loose.
Despite the lack of performance I only get about 40mpg.
There is not excessive exhaust smoke.
I have changed the fuel, air, and oil filters.
I have used a diesel injector cleaner additive without success.
A mechanic has checked the belts and confirmed "the timing is correct", though without special tools and without removing the cam cover.
The tappets sound a little noisy (rattly) like they have too much clearance.
The injection pump is Lucas CAV.
I am about to have a specialist diesel fitter check the timing again. he says he will have to remove the alternator to check it properly, and stressed that it only needs to be a smidgeon out to run poorly, and he can adjust the pump timing by very small amounts.
My questions for the learned are:-
1. Does the specialist have a valid point, so is there a good chance of improvement from his work (and my half day without work)?
2. How long does it take to re-shim the tappets, and would it be worthwhile having them done at the same time, though I'd rather do one change at a time and see the results of each?
3. What else should I be focussing on?