Hi guys, this is my first post on the forums and sadly its a problem one ... recently changed a water pump on my 1.9 TDi Octavia.... When changing the pump i had to remove the fuel filter/pump, cam belt etc.... Everything went well in the installation however when trying to start the car it would turn over but not start (alot of smoke coming from the exhaust aswell). Noticed alot of air bubbles in the Fuel Line (Clear), finally got the car to start by towing it.

Once started it runs fine but leave the car off for more than 10 minutes low and behold the same problem. More than likely the problems has somthing to do with the fuel system... but what???

Any ideas guys??

You need to check the cam timing first - did you use all the correct pegs/tools? Should of had pump locking peg (if early car with rotary fuel pump), Camshaft locking tool (at the back if old type or front if PD engine) and either a locking peg on the front crank pulley (if PD) or mark on the flywheel (if old type)

You could of damaged the fuel filter or the return valve on top of it and be drawing in air.

Hope this helps

Dave