Two problems. First having checked all the connections, resistances etc I have converted the cold start injector to operation by a switch as the ecu didn't seem to be firing the injector. ( Early 1800E with timer in ecu not in external thermocouple). Is this a daft scheme with disaster around the corner, is it a common problem or what? Seems to work, but it's early days. Second, I found that renewing the plugs revolutionised the starting. The old plugs looked ok and worked but obviously weren't producing a good enough spark while cold starting. The car has what looks like lumenition contactless points. Is the need for good plugs a known issue? I'm a recent convert to the 1800E so any advice based on them is welcomed. Jock

The switch-operated cold start injector sounds like a very easy way to flood it. IME you don't really need the cold start injector. Mine didn't work but it was easy enough to pump the throttle a few times which fires the main injectors and gives a bit of extra fuel. I fixed it eventually but it was more for something to do than because it really needed it. The FI engines are no more fussy about plugs than the carb ones, but old plugs do get manky while still appearing to work.

Cold Starting 

I think the conclusion I draw is that my cold starting problems were primarily due to the plugs. My manual activation of the cold start injector works and if you hold it on witha flick switch for only 2-4 seconds then I think flooding is not a problem. But I can see that it's something to be careful to avoid. Thanks to those who replied. Jock

That sounds like a good solution. I know that on very cold mornings I turn the ignition, lights, & other assessories on for a very short span of time. Turn them all off, wait a few seconds, and then start the engine. My theory is that the current moves slowly the first few seconds to respond to the demands of the assessories. While the demand to start a very cold engine with a very cold battery can be a challenge for both. I guess that's why you can buy plug in engine block heaters, battery blankets that plug in, etc. I wouldn't heed my suggestion (turn a few items on) if your battery was already very weak. You might lose what little charge you had. Canadian winters foster some pretty innovative cold start ideas. The most startling I ever heard was from a co-worker (Jean). After a 2-10 shift in the dead of winter she would pour a recently steaming kettle on or near the manifold. I kid you not. Funny thing is I remember her starting her vehicle while others struggled with conventional methods. I don't recall any cracked blocks or other horrors as a result of Jean's unconventional method. You never know, although I was hesitant to follow her lead. regards, Bill