I have a spark problem

pureflash · 08-10-2004, 01:14 PM

I recently bought an 84' 944 non-turbo that had been sitting for two years. It was not garaged during that time so it had some problems. I've replaced the starter, fuel pump, spark plugs, distributer cap, rotor, all hoses and fluids. The car was starting but not running for more than 10 seconds, dying like it was out of gas. I tested the fuel rail's pressure and it was fine. I pulled the rail and the injectors looked dirty so I cleaned them. When I put it all back together I had no spark from the ignition solenoid. It is getting power and putting out power but no spark. I'm not sure why I had it two days before and the car was starting and now it doesn't. Any ideas? Please I am out of ideas and the manuals I have arent telling me anything. The DME Relay seems fine, there are no burnt spots in the circuit board, and as best I can tell the computer is ok. Someone please have the answer so I can quit borrowing my roomate's car and get myself back on the road. Thanks

CT944 · 08-10-2004, 05:55 PM

same happened to me when I bought my 83. it was sitting for a few years. it started once in a while, then wouldn't start at all.

when you crank the car, look at the tachometer. if it jumps a little when you crank, it will most likely not be the DME or Relay. If there is no movement at all, it is the DME or relay (this was the only differentiating sign I could find).

I replaced my DME (after spending $500 on all other ignition components) for $75 off E-Bay, and it fired up on the first click.

Find someone with a 944 to switch out the DME, it only takes 5 mins to switch, and you'll know if that is the problem quickly.

pureflash · 08-10-2004, 06:25 PM

Thanks for the heads up. I had thought maybe something with the DME but I wasnt sure how to check it at all. I appreciate the help. Anything else you or anyone else may have would be appreciated. I'm losing my mind over it.

jdculp · 08-24-2004, 09:50 PM

I have the same problem! did you get any help? Mine is not starting, the dme is bad, and when I stick in a new dme it still doesnt start, mayeb the relay?

pureflash · 08-24-2004, 10:17 PM

From what I can tell if you're dme is bad and you changed it to a good one, but it still doesnt work. It would probably be your relay. An easy fix for the relay is to pull the cover off and re-solder the points. Basically reheat and double the amount of solder on all the solder points of the little relay chip. I still havent gotten another dme so I dont know what my problem is yet. I've researched the crap out of it and found some stuff. I'd check the relay though.