Hammer gurus- odd issue, please help

[porterdog]

Hi All,

I just got a Bosch Hammer for my '90 C4. Everything works great- I can read all the installed modules/faults, direct drive all the drivable bits (fans, actuators, etc....) but I have one issue- the Hammer can not detect when the car is running. The upshot of this is that I can't get real-time output from the engine department sensors nor do an adaptation. To be clear- I can read the DME and activate the drivable bits (like the manifold tuning valve and the IAC valve) with no issue. Further, the car runs fine, maybe even great.

I have to assume that the RPM output is making it to the DME; again, the car runs fine and is entertainingly quick.

I also have to assume that the Hammer is working correctly. It will do everything I ask of it except the stuff that requires a running engine.

Consequently, I think the issue must be with the circuitry that communicates RPM to the diagnostic jack; either there's an issue with the output of the DME *or* an issue with the relay of same (have yet to check the wiring diagram; does the jack connect to the Central Informer?)

Also, having reviewed all the Rennlist and Pelican Hammer-related posts I find that I do not have the 19-pin official Porsche plug but rather a more-generic 4 pin plug to connect the Hammer to the car. I'm not sure that's an issue, however, as all the DIY products use a 4-pin connection too and they seem to be able to read live motor data.

Any input on where to start troubleshooting is greatly appreciated!

TIA,
Robert

[john walker's workshop]

is it chipped? sometmes that screws things up.

[porterdog]

Dunno; not by my hand, but....

Pull out and open the DME to check, right?

[porterdog]

I've done some further research and determined that my 4 prong interface cable may be the issue. John Speake of JDSPorsche fame answered an inquiry via email (immediately, I might add...) indicating that the Hammer needs to see a signal on the separate RPM signal line. He was also kind enough to tell me that the RPM pin (#14 on the car side) should be connected to Pin 1 on the Hammer end.

I'll mess about with it over the next few weeks and report back.

[Joe Bob]

Another Hammer guru is Ingo, 3.6@cox.net

[Tippy]

Not to hijack, but will the Hammer do the same for '84-'89 DME's?

[porterdog]

Dunno; good question. Do you have a diagnostic plug? What's it look like?

[Tippy]

Honestly, I dunno....

Never seen one and have always been under the impression it does not.

[porterdog]

Well... the Hammer has to plug in somewhere; if it can't it can't Hammer, so if you don't have a diagnostic plug then no Hammer for you! (sorry )