Strange as it gets

[alex9s]

I just installed a completely rebuilt 2.0 and can't seem to get it started. It cranks fine but won't start. I have checked for spark and it is there. Then i checked each individual injector for spray and they all spray.
Now for the unbelievable thing, i cranked the engine with an injector out of the engine, to test it, with the wires plugged in it. All of the other injectors were installed but the wires disconnected. The engine wanted to run without a single injector spraying fuel.
It actually did start and ran. I am totally confused and know it has to be a simple problem. I have a compufire electronic ignition. Everything was dissasembled so the timing isn't right but i have the distributor in the position for 1 to fire and so it's in a general timing where it should run. The unit is known to be good.
I even checked compression and it is perfect! How do you check for manifold pressure and what should it be?? Maybe plentum leaking off?? The problem has to be on top of the engine b/c i know the basic mechanics are right and thought the top was too. New injectors, new trigger points, rebuilt pressure sensor, new ignition system, new vacuum lines, fuel lines everything is new or proven to work. This is my second engine after completely rebuilding a 1.7 and driving it for 5 great years and it still runs great. I just can't seem to start this 74 2.0!! HELP HELP HELP HELP!!

[Wayne 962]

If you don't have the ignition timing just right, it won't fire. Make sure that you set the dwell by hand, (see tech article) and you can also rotate the distributor with your hand while someone else cranks the car, until it starts...

-Wayne

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

The engine can sometimes run very briefly on fuel that is puddled in the intake ports, and/or on fuel that the cold start valve is dumping into the manifold.

You may be getting way too much fuel, or the timing may be off. Check to see that the head temp sensor is plugged in, that the manifold pressure sensor is hooked up to the manifold, and that it holds a vacuum.

--DD

[Jim Smolka]

I had the same problem when I started my new 2.0 I removed all the FI and the car still would run. Though I was rich, car that ran w/0 fuel. Turned out the cold start valve was leaking. The Fuel Pressure Regulator was installed backwards.

Reversed the FPR and it ran fine. However, my visions of $$$$ were gone.