Car won't start - help!

[Microdot]

2003 Dci 1.5 80bhp.

Today I replaced the fuel filter, using a good quality filter, and you've guessed it, the car won't start.

I'm certain this is due to air in the fuel lines, but the problem is that the primer bulb on the bulkhead simply isn't priming the system, no matter how much I pump it.

I'd be grateful for any suggestions on how to get round this - I'm ready to torch the car...

 

[frank]

did you fill the filter before refitting, and is the ignition on when you are priming ?

 

[Microdot]

did you fill the filter before refitting, and is the ignition on when you are priming ?

No the ignition wasn't on when priming - does that help?

I understood there wasn't an in-tank pump, so assumed the main pump only worked when the engine ran.

 

[Microdot]

Thanks for helpful suggestions, car is now running again.

I managed to bleed and prime the system properly, and the car is running well.

I've run some injector cleaner through it, filled it with Shell Ultimate, and with the new fuel filter is is running noticeably smoother, and starts immediately hot or cold.

I opened up the egr valve and unfortunately it came out in 2 pieces, so is clearly broken. They seem to be about £38 on eBay, so...

It's averaging about 50mpg over a mixture of roads, so I'm pleased with that.

Still got other issues to sort on the car so the saga continues...