Checking and adjusting normal idle speed and idle reduction mode (every 20,000 km or 12 months) (Transit 2)

Please note: On turbocharged engines with the Lucas EPIC engine management system, all fuel pump parameters are controlled by the system's electronic control unit and cannot be adjusted manually. The following adjustments apply to non-turbocharged engines and early "turbodiesels" without electronic control. Remember also that these adjustments should only be made if the settings are believed to be incorrect

1. A conventional tachometer that operates from ignition system pulses cannot be used on a diesel engine. If you cannot determine the degree of idle speed misalignment by listening to the engine, you can choose:

• a) Buy or hire a suitable tachometer;
• b) Assign the work to a dealer or other specialist;
• c) Use a stroboscope that is rotated by a gasoline engine running at the speed required. If such a stroboscope is used to highlight a mark on the crankshaft pulley of a running diesel engine, the mark will appear stationary at the moment when the rotation speeds of both engines coincide.

2. Before making any adjustments, warm up the engine to normal operating temperature and make sure that the throttle cable is adjusted correctly (see Chapter 4)

Checking and adjusting normal idle speed

3. Make sure that when the gas pedal is released, its lever on the high-pressure fuel pump rests on the stop.

4. On engines equipped with a thermostatic idle speed sensor, ensure that the sensor cable is properly adjusted as described in Chapter 4, Section 5.

5. Allow the engine to idle and check the engine speed. If adjustment is necessary, turn the idle speed adjusting screw until the correct speed is set (see Figure 35.5, a, b).

Checking and adjusting the speed reduction mode

6. On models with a Lucas/CAV high pressure fuel pump, increase engine speed and allow the engine to return to idle. If the engine almost stalls or, on the contrary, slows down too slowly, adjust the idle speed as follows.

7. Remove the protective cover or seal from the speed reduction adjustment screw. Loosen the screw lock nut, turn the screw a quarter turn clockwise, then recheck the idle speed and assess the need for further adjustment. Continue adjusting until then. until the idle speed returns to normal, then tighten the lock nut and install a new protective seal.

Caution: If the engine speed increases when turning the screw, this indicates a faulty high-pressure fuel pump. Consult your Lucas CAV representative or other professional.