Can't start after clutch replacement

[Dan8778]

I just replaced the clutch on my 87 944 NA and now can't start it. I'm pretty sure it isn't getting spark. At the distributer I am only getting about 12 volts. When I check the ignition coil, I get 12 volts there, and at the green wire that goes to the DME I get less than 100 ohms with the key off and I don't read any ohms when I crank the engine. I'm not sure exactly how the ignition coil works, but maybe I could run a jumper wire and ground it?

Before I had the coolant hose on the rear of the engine above the reference sensors, I started the car and accidentaly spilt some coolant on the reference sensors and whatever else is there. Also, I had to add more coolant, so I unscrewed that bolt above the waterpump to let the air out and spill quite a bit more coolant there. The level in the coolant resevoir is still a bit high.

I don't know how the DME works, but if some coolant fell on a electrical component that needs to work for starting, I don't know. Could it be the oxygen sensor, one of the 3 reference sensors( the tach doesn't move if I turnover the engine-I don't know if it should or not) , the wire running down from the air flow sensor, or something else I don't know of?

If anyone has any input into what I should test it would be very appreciated. Thanks.

[Dan8778]

Regarding the Reference sensors...

I read some other posts, and yes, the tach does bounce a bit at first, but the just vibrates a tiny tiny bit while cranking. I also have an old 78 924 sitting around, I don't know if it has similar reference sensors, but if it did and the reference sensors were the problem, maybe I could use them?

[Rasta Monsta]

You can check if the coil is firing by using a timing light. . .

[mikepellegrini]

The speed and ref sensors are sealed units - I don't think spilling coolant on them would have any effect. Conceivably if the plug end where the wires leave the sensor was loose-fitting, maybe coolant could get in there and cause a short, but that's gotta be a long shot.

Like Rasta said, you can check your coil firing with a timing light, or if you don't have one, simply pull a plug wire, insert a screw driver and hold it close to a gound, then gave someone crank the engine over and see if you get a spark.

The O2 sensor just changes the fuel air mixture when the engine's cold. It would still run if it was non-functional; just badly until the car warmed up.

Have you looked at Clark's troubleshooting section? It's really helpful: Troubleshooting - Engine

When you did your clutch, I assume you dismounted your speed and ref sensors. Did you pull out each sensor, or did you just take off the bracket? If you pulled off the bracket (with both sensors at the same time) you'll need to re-gap the sensors - and that would cause the problems you're having.

[Techno Duck]

Try swapping connectors on the speed / reference sensors, you may have reversed them.

[Dan8778]

Thanks for all of the posts. When I removed the clutch, I did remove the reference sensor bracket. What's the best link to find out how to regap them? Thanks again.

[mikepellegrini]

Here you go - at Clark's: Speed and Reference Sensors - Checking, Replacement, and Adjustment

If they aren't gapped properly that will produce the no spark condition, so if you reinstalled the sensors and bracket without adjusting the gap, that likely is your culprit.

[TSNAPCRACKLEPOP]

or water under the cap, cracked?

[patotsky15]

same thing happened to me. i replaced my rubber based clutch on a 88 944 na. when i finished, i couldnt start the car. i thoutgh the batterey lost its charge. after pop starting the car i realized it was a ground wire. at first i though it was the one on the starter but it turned out to be the one on top of the cluch housing. (real pain in the ass to get to) as soon as i titghen that up, car started right up

[patotsky15]

just got a performance chip for my 1988 944 n/a. i have an idea of where it goes and how to install it, but was wondering if anybody has done this before and could walk me through it real quick.

i also was wondering if i needed adapters or anything to install 17'' turbo twist wheels on the same car. 88 944 n/a. all four wheels are the same width 7.5''. would the wheels rub? affect performance? thanks.

[mikepellegrini]

Here's a link to the procedure on Clark's - DME Control Unit Chip Installation (Including KLR Chip for Turbos)

I've seen pictorals but can't remember where. Maybe the Lindsey Racing site?. Here: http://www.lindseyracing.com/LR/Parts/CHIPCHANGE.html

Basically, you pull the DME out - it's under the carpet in the passenger side footwell, then open it up. You pull out the old chip and install the new one.

Make sure to take proper anti-static precautions - ground yourself, and to the best extent possible, don't touch any of the electrical connections or pins with your fingers.

Static electricity can kill electronics. Bigtime!