E36 no start

nonphixion · 01-25-2006, 09:00 AM

So, heres the deal,

My sisters '93 325 won't start. She said she moved the car, then went out a couple hours later and it won't start. No codes stored, PEAKE tool comes up with '--' and the 5 step gas pedal method for the Motronic code, in which I got '1444', no codes.

Car cranks fine, battery and starter are good.

I tested the resistance of the coils and the harness that feeds the coils for voltage. Both were within spec.

Pulled a plug out, plug was wet after cranking with strong gas smell, so I'm sure the engine is getting fuel.

I took the CAM position sensor our of my '95 M3 and put it in the 325, same results.

The above troubleshooting has led me to the CRANK position sensor. I unclipped the crank position sensor lead and tested the resistance of the sensor. I got 479 ohms. I think the spec for this is supposed to be 560 ohms, correct? I tested the crank position sensor lead on my M3 and got 600 ohms.

So based on what I've said should I replace the crank sensor? No sense in wasting money if theres more I can check for free.

Thanks in advance for any help/replies.

Jeron · Jeron's Garage

I think someone in the last few months replaced a CPS for the same symptoms and it was the cause. You might find the post by searching.

My first inclination would be to jump start or charge the battery. I've had batteries that would turn the engine at a normal rate but not spark. It only takes a few minutes and it eliminates the battery as the cause.

nonphixion · 01-25-2006, 10:56 AM

Ive been starting it with the battery hooked to jumper cables to another cars bat, so i know the voltage is there.

CPTON · 01-25-2006, 01:46 PM

doubt its your crankshaft sensor, id pull the plugs and see it they are soaked in gas, if they are dry them out well and let the cylinders dry out as well.

Then make sure the fuel pump is working remove the rear seat and fuel pump cover to listen for a buzzing sound.

I had this same problem and one day it just started, all i did before it started was dry the plugs out and unhook the vacuum line to the brake booster and it started, then installed the vacuum line again and now it runs.

But im having trouble with it stalling at stop lights. So i tested my alternator and its low at 50% so maybe test yours.