03 GTI LE RFI problems

[Mowery1]

Just purchased this 03 GTI LE RFI. Was told that it would start up and run but if you shut it off it wouldn't start for 20 minutes. Well they didnt lie. It happened today first time out. Dropped in the water, took off down the lake and it ran but never really seemed to rev out like I thought it should. Turned back to the ramp and it died at idle. Tried to start it and it would crank but wouldn't fire off. Got home and tried one more time and it started..What the heck could cause this?

 

[etemplet]

Change the fuel filters first off. One day I'm gonna make me a gauge set up to test the fuel pressure. I have the parts now.

 

[Sportster-2001-951C-Stock]

Also check cylinder compression, low compression is one cause of hard starting in water and an engine that's lost some pizzaz in the power band.

 

[Mowery1]

Check the compression with engine cold or warm?

 

[Sportster-2001-951C-Stock]

Doesn't matter! IMO, I see no difference when I test warm or cold. If engine hasn't been run in months, start and run it 1st if possible.

 

[Mowery1]

Thanks..I'll check it out. Need to get a manual for this machine..This is my first rfi..

 

[mikidymac]

Typically compression is checked on a cold engine. You need to hold the throttle wide open before cranking so your computer shuts off the fuel injectors.

 

[Sportster-2001-951C-Stock]

Yes since it's fuel injected, then holding throttle WOT will shut off fuel, a good thing for various reasons.