I started the XK8 earlier this week ,moved it 10 feet then switched it off without thinking, got in it this afternoon, it won't fire and stinks of petrol.

Looks like my saturday morning is spoken for then

This really is a design fault on these cars

 

If you have fuel and spark pull the plugs add a few drops of oil reinstall the plugs hold the accelerator to the floor and hope it starts.

 

don't beat yourself up too bad wack, there are worse things you could forget, even temporarily.

 

I have been down that road 3 times so you are not the only one. You can read my episode on my page if that will make you feel better.

 

I had a S Type with the same engine last year, at least I know what it is now , when the S type wouldn't start I was really scratching my head, might be a good opportunity to put some new plugs in

 

What is this about ? Is there an issue with on/off engine running ?

 

Don’t know just yet but I am certain we will find out!

 

Is this type of thing (starting the car briefly maybe to just move it and then turning it off) poison to just these cars or to all cars.

Doug

 

What?!? I've done that a dozen times with my XK8 and thouahds with other cars without a problem. I think there's another issue at hand here...

 

huh, what is this being talked about????

 

Cylinder wash! And this is not related to all cars.

 

An XK8 being started for a few seconds, then cut off, but won't start again... seems like a recurring issue via the first few posts.

 

It's quite a problem with the AJ V8 engine, when they're cold they inject a lot of fuel, if you start up and switch off within a few seconds then leave the car this fuel floods the engine,wets the plugs and washes the oil out of the barrels which lowers compression and makes the car hard to start.

I've had it 3 months now but this is the 1st time i've started it, drove it 10 feet then switched it off, I had a 4.0 Stype which did the same.

Anyway I got away with it this time, left it overnight and this morning it fired up OK ish, bit rough to start with but running fine now

 

I learn so much from you guys. So, I am doing the right think my always being **** retentive and waiting until the temperature gauge goes to 12:00 before turning off the engine, correct? I even leave it running in the driveway if I back it out to wash it.

Tony
97 XK8
05 XJ8L

 

Honestly, its smart to let you 'fast' idle drop anyway before moving the car. I also do, on any car, even if late.