help...i've got an 84 1.8 spacecruiser with a starting
problem on ignition side. turns over fantastic but need 15-20 secs before bursts into life.
there is no spark at all to start with and then just before it fires the rev counter flickers indicating
the spark has got there...but why does it take so long.
help please.
dave price - (#2653) david price, 5 Apr 02

Bad earth/ loose connection, ignitor, distributor (in that order) - (#2664) david miller, 7 Apr 02

It sounds like you have the same problem as me - I have a C reg. Apparently it's a sticky choke and if mine won't start, I have to lift off the choke cover, press the accelerator then push in the flap and release the accelerator pedal. It normally kicks in then. I've been quoted approx £150 to have it fixed. - (#2682) Louise, 8 Apr 02

Dave and Louise. Had same problem with my 84 S/Cr and found problem with this one was bad corrosion around inside of choke housing. Its like a band thats seems to act as an earth. Removed the 3 screws,(be careful of seized screws)marked it and eased it "gently" away,shined it up best I could,a smear of vasiline,lub'd all the bits that looked like they need lubricating on carb and choke and popped cover/band back on. Result, now starts first time and touch wood no further problems. Its very tight and awkward getting to the screws and seeing what you're doing properly with the carb in place and you need to exercise a bit of care and patience but I hope this gives you another angle to look at if you hav'nt got it sorted yet.

- (#2743) Bernie, 21 Apr 02