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MOTRS

P1800 / P1800ES

1961-1973 / Coupe / Shooting Brake / Sweden

All P1800 / P1800ES problems All workshop issues
Critical Fuel System

Fuel pump failure (mechanical and electric)

Symptoms

Engine cuts out, won't restart, or runs lean and misfires. You might hear the electric pump ticking rapidly or not at all.

Cause

Mechanical pumps (B18) wear out, diaphragms split, valves stick. Electric pumps (later B20) seize or burn out, especially if the fuel filter is clogged and they're working too hard.

Fix

Replace the pump.

Mechanical pumps are cheap and easy.

Electric pumps are also cheap, but get a decent one (Facet or SU type).

Fit an inline filter *before* the pump to protect it.

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Other known issues

Common Fuel System

Fuel tank rust and sediment

Fuel starvation, clogged filters, rough running, won't start. Brown gunk in the fuel filter.
Common Fuel System

SU carburettor issues (B18)

Poor idle, flat spots, hesitation, black smoke, fuel smell, poor starting.
Critical Fuel System

Fuel line corrosion and leaks

Fuel smell, visible drips, puddles under the car. Sometimes a rough idle or hesitation if air is being drawn in.
Common Engine

Oil leaks from rear main seal

Oil weeps or pours from the back of the engine, usually visible around the bellhousing. Can soak the clutch on manual cars.
Common Engine

Piston ring wear and oil consumption (B18/B20)

Blue smoke on startup or under load. Engine uses a litre of oil every 500-1000 km. Exhaust tips go black and sooty.
Common Engine

Timing gear wear and rattle (B18)

Rattling or chattering noise from the front of the engine, especially on cold start or at idle. Sometimes a metallic ticking that doesn't go away when warm.
View all 28 P1800 / P1800ES problems