Golf 1.8 16v won't run.

[ReillyGti]

Hey iv got a mrk2 golf 1.8 16v gti that I just can't get to run tried every thing I can think of iv changed the bat, fule metering head, ht leads, cap, roater arm, coil, plugs and have changed the dizzy but not sure of it. and Still nothing can sometimes get it running but only idle If the dizzy is turned ryt back as far as it can go but it won't drive if u try and move off it will just Lose all power and die and then the bat is dead agen. Any ideas? 

[jocarl11]

Have you checked the starter motor?

[golfmk4owner]

Hey mate, when you try to start it does the starter actually turn but the engine wont fire up? or is there nothing at all?

[mk2bal]

I'd go right back to basics if I was you. I'd start with the timing, get the bottom to tdc on gearbox end, then check the top is on the mark. If it is right put the dizzy in the middle position somewhere.(The car should run in pretty much any position when timed right).pull a plug, earth it and check you got spark. Either pull an injector or check plugs to see if your getting fuel in there.. With compression fuel and spark it should run, the rest will jus tweak it, so if it won't even start I'd be starting from scratch. Also check isv and fuel pumps buzz when you put the ignition on..if all checks out come back for your next installment of mk2 16v troubleshooting

[ReillyGti]

Set the bottom at tdc fule and spark are there timing on top is set at mark and have had some one turning enging while turning dizzy duke pump is working and the rev counter is jumping when turning it over so Hal sender is working just still won't run the only thing I can't do is a compression test as I don't have one.

[mk2bal]

What's been done to the car recently/last? Have you put the engine in/changed anythin prior to it not working?does it fire when turning or just turnover?

[ReillyGti]

It just died out side my mates garage and needed a new head gasket so it has had a new head gasket bolts and had the head skimed. It has also had a second hand dizzy. It will some times fire but sounds rugh  and won't idle the only thing that Im not 100% on is the 3rd pullie do u have to set that as well on the 16v coz can't find any timing mark on it anywhere?

[wurth]

Timing.

[Wayne]

Timing.

^^^As above, timing is out.

[mk2bal]

No its just the oil pump shaft. That cog can go in any position, its 8vs that have to time it up because it runs the dizzy.maybe try a known dizzy? If it sometimes works and sometimes doesn't..