Uphill struggle - BMW Forum

Cas · 07-17-2009, 09:52 AM

I loned my 96 525td to a mate and when i got it back it cuts out going uphill when the fuel gets to just above the fuel warning light limit,i was thinking the feed pipe in the tank,but would like to explore other possibilities before i have to drop tank,any advice please.

witeshark · 07-17-2009, 10:04 AM

How recent is the last fuel filter change? Could the injectors need cleaning?

Cas · 07-17-2009, 10:12 AM

just done a full service when i bought it 6 month ago,started cutting out about 6/7 weeks ago,it only cuts out when the fuel gets to the red light level,just above the reserve,it starts again straight away as soon as i get on level ground.

witeshark · 07-17-2009, 10:27 AM

Maybe the fuel pump(s) are playing up a bit. Are you confident with the fuel pressure regulator?

Cas · 07-17-2009, 10:34 AM

To tell you the truth i'm not sure what it could be,i've been fixing cars for 20+ years and bmw's are not a car i have had any contact with except driving them,aside basic service to mates.not even sure how i would check the regulator.
i'm not a mechanic,just self taught

marti5 · 07-17-2009, 11:42 AM

I would firstly say its a bad idea to keep running it that low, secondly when you are going up hill with such low fuel in the tank it all runs to the rear of the tank so the pump is just sucking air, also your sender in the tank may not be calibrated correctly giving a false reading, so when it comes on red light you may only have 1 gallon as opposed to 2.

Just a thought and good advice.

abhicary · 07-17-2009, 05:34 PM

I think you will have to change the injectors. I am not sure, but it may be the problem.

Cas · 07-18-2009, 01:22 AM

Thanks guys,looks like its an elimination process,i think i'll start with what i think is most likely,in tank feed,just cant believe on a 96 bmw you have to drop the tank to get to pump/guage.That said,my fuel guage does'nt move between red light-about 15 litres,so have to guess this by my trip meter,also,i very rarely let it go to below 1/4 tank,if i put my foot down,the guess work goes out the window.
I get about 35-40 mpg driven sensibly,not even sure if this is good,this is my first ever diesel,once again,thanks.