Post storage start up problem
 

1999 Jag XK8 Conv. 10,600 orig miles. After about 6 months in storage, I can not get the motor to fire up. Cranks OK but no firing. Any ideas where and how to remedy? Location;PA.USA

George, I would first verify that you are getting fuel pressure at the engine. You can verify this by attaching a fuel pressure gauge to the schrader valve on the fuel rail (gage can be bought at a local auto parts store for around $15). You should be getting 40-50 psi of fuel with the key in the RUN position but the engine not turning or 30-40 psi with the engine running. If you are getting the fuel pressure, then I would do a look over of the wiring harness as I have heard of several instances where animals have gotten under the hood and then they chewed up a wiring harness or two.

If you need me to get a bit more detailed on anything, let me know.

Here we go again, another AJ26 with likely the same chronic problem as most.

George,

The absolute first thing to do with an AJ26 that cranks and does not start is establish that you have compression; otherwise, you'll spend lots of time chasing dead ends and still not get it started.

If you've flooded it trying to start it (wet plugs), then first ensure you have a well charged battery, dry out the plugs, do several short cranks with WOT, no longer than about 15/20 seconds, giving the started rests in between. If you cannot get it started this way, Then begin looking into fuel/ignition issues. Personally, I wouldn't longterm store an AJ26, but rather keep it running periodically if you can. - Best.