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Citroen Xantia - John Wain

Hot starting problems

Car is hesitant to start when cold, but can be very difficult when hot (has been known to power up hydraulic system before starting, but has not yet failed to start)
Been into Citroen specialist who has checked no leak from fuel pipe under bonnet and checked out fuel pump, injectors, etc. and fuel supply to them.
He has suggested next step to have cylinder head off to check swirl chambers as lining may be cracked, but this will cost around £400 plus any repairs to swirl chambers, bit expnsive! Will also carry out pressure check before doing above work.
Have you any suggestions as to another fault which may be worth while checking before cylinder head comes off?
Reputable John (Wain) - honest!
Re: Citroen Xantia - Ian Cook
John

What sort of Xantia is it? Petrol, diesel (if so TD or HDi?).
Re: Citroen Xantia - Darcy Kitchin
and mileage, history too?
Re: Citroen Xantia - David Woollard
John,

Several Xantia enthusiasts waiting to help if you give us some more details.

David
Citroen Xantia - David Lacey
By the sounds of it this is a diesel model. Cracking of the swirl chambers is known, but I doubt if it would cause the problems you have.

Are the glow plugs in serviceable condition?

Has the engine been compression tested, both hot & cold?

Air ingress into the fuel system through a pinhole in a pipe or filter housing which opens up slightly when warm seems possible?

Check the fundamental things first (compressions etc)

Is there a smell of diesel fuel under the bonnet? This could indicate a weeping pipe/union etc

It could even be a fuel injection pump fault, internally, perhaps.

Rgds

David