Starts and dies

[Timmeh]

I have a 96 corsa 1.7 d. When i start it with the enginne cold, it will often start, and then die again. Then it will start but be stupidly lumpy for about 10 seconds and then its finne. Its not a major problem, but im hoping to sell the car soon so would be a big put off to any potential buyer.

[bluecorsab]

connect a multi meter between the positive rail and earth on the glow plugs ,set at 12 volts and start the car the meter should read over 12 volts for about 20 to 30 seconds after you have started the engine .if the voltage drops off as soon as the glow plug light goes out then the second stage in the glow relay is nackered and needs replacing ,it does this to allow the cylinders to heat up quicker from start to make for even running

[Timmeh]

Orite mate i'll try that when i get a chance. do you know how i would go about sorting the second stage if that turned out to be the problem?

[bluecorsab]

yeah just change the relay mate i would find one off a scrapper as they are really expensive