Engine Overview and Common Failures
The weight of the F8M engine according to the catalog is 140 kg. The engine number F8M is located at the junction of the block and the gearbox. Diesel engines from this family cannot tolerate overheating, and the cylinder head often leads to cracks, especially after the upgrade in 1987, usually in the area of the pre-chamber. The mechanical VE pump from Bosch is quite reliable and rarely causes problems, so the usual cause of power loss is the injectors, most often their nozzles. The intake pipes in these engines were not initially known for their reliability, and in older units, they constantly develop cracks. So, the diagnostics usually start with searching for an air leak. Due to age and regular overheating, gaskets and seals in the power unit tend to fail. Most often, oil leaks from under the valve cover or through the crankshaft seals. There are also very weak wiring connections here, and many electrical failures are directly related to it.