944 starting problem
 

My 83 944 is having a starting problem that I have seen addressed here before. Intermittently when attempting to start the car it will turn over with no attempt to start. I have traced it down to the coil not firing. But after repeated attempts and sometimes waiting several hours it will start and run fine. I think it has something to do with the factory alarm system. Does any one have any other suggestions to help me get it running? Maybe another problem I missed. I know and have tested the coil, throttle position, air gate, all the sensors and fuel system. Everything is fine even when it won't start.

David... our 85.5 has had this same problem and after all was checked. it turned out to be the Ignition Relay module in the fuse box. Our quick fix was to pull the relay, tap it on the side a few times and clean the contacts with a soft eraser. This got the car going and I picked up a relay the next day. Now we carry a spare in the glove box...

let me know what you find out alarm. I've got a 944 that every thing checked good on, tried a used DME from a reputable place and no start. where is alarm control?

Well, the alarm control box is another mystery. I was told that mine in a 83 944 is above my DME which is mounted to the bottom of the steering column. So the hunt goes on. Does anyone have the alarm schematics???? This is a problem that I posted on alot of the 944 boards and it seems that alot of people are having this problem, replacing alot of components (just as I have) and the problem pops up again later. I am gathering as much infomation and schematics as I can. I will beat this problem and post all the information that I works for everyone. For those who are interested I have replace the coil, DME, DME relay, all the sensors on the engine, check continuity and made all the adjustments that can be done. This is a inherant electrical problem that I do believe is linked to the factory alarm systems. Any more info that anyone has will be appreciated. Thanks all,
David

New info, if you own a 83 944, the alarm control box is behind the radio in the center console, you can totally unplug it and your car will function normally, who would have guessed it was that easy to uninstall the porsche alarm system

I posted my 1987 944 starting problem 7-30-00. Since that time I have cleaned the speed/crank sensors located in the bell housing with no change. Yesterday I replaced both sensors with new ones & still no change ($216.50). I have not made/checked the required .8 mm sensor adjustment yet since the sensor bell housing has not been touched/adjusted. All engine grounding cables were cleaned as suggested & still no change. DME connections appear to be in good shape also. Where is the alarm system located on a 1987? No alarm relays/fuses are addressed in the listing attached to lid box. Also, what is the clamp on electrical box attached to the steering column above your feet? The 944 Haynes manual is limited in info. Thanks.

------------------

Shaun,

It is a silver box. No problems with the cruise or any vibrations/clicking noises. Any idea where alarm is located? Davidnsc fixed his very similar starting problem by disconnecting alarm. I'm trying to figure out if I have one and where it is. Thanks.

Travis

On my car, an '86T, the sensor lines that are connected to the bell housing (mentioned above) have a slip together coupling about a foot away from the bell housing. I have had other plug in type connectors act up due to dirt, oxidation, and moisture on the prongs. If you have such, you might try cleaning them with contact cleaner.

Had a similar problem on a european car and it turned out to be the fuel relay, always worth a look

on an 85.5 and newer, the alarm brain is right next to the DME box, under the carpet, and the plywood (yes plywood!) at the passenger's feet. The alarm box is a black plastic box, with blue writing on it. it's 1" x 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" in size.

Mike

Also on 85.5 and newer the cruise control brain is on the passenger's side, not the driver's.

Exactly the same problem with a '87 944s - cuts out when going 90 or backing down the driveway, then runs fine for a week ; new computer, ignition wires, etc, etc. Did the gnition Relay module in the fuse box turn out to be your issue ? I'll check mine -