320i (M20) JUST WONT START!!

Post Tue Mar 01, 2005 2:21 pm

I recently bought an 320i Convertible (1989) which seemed in good enough condition. After a few weeks it cut out on me for no apparent reason while driving. It did start after about 20mins of trying and then done the same thing a few more times over the next week or so. I then had the Distributor Cap, Rota arm, Spark plugs, Oil, Oil filter, Air filter (to a 57i induction kit) and Fuel filter all changed. Now the problem is that is wont start at all. The engine turns over but does'nt catch and if you try too hard it then drains the battery. I do smell the petrol as the engine does get flooded so it aint a fuel pump or fuel problem. And when I checked that there was sparks coming from the HT leads they were fine.

I cant figure out what's wrong.

HAS THIS EVER HAPPEND TO ANYONE? IF SO WHAT WAS THE PROBLEM?

Post Tue Mar 01, 2005 3:05 pm

Something similar happened to me on saturday. The car had been gradually getting harder to start and the tick over was getting erratic. Eventually it stalled at a junction and refused to start. The engine stank of petrol and was sparking. I called the ANWB (AA) and within 5 minutes the guy sorted it. I don't know exactly what the problem was as it was too cold to stand outside and watch, but all he did was check every connection from the main loom until eventually he found a loose one. After that it started first time. Hope this helps.

Post Tue Mar 01, 2005 3:44 pm

check the multi plug under the inlet manifold the one that goes to your injectors for corrison it solved mine

Post Tue Mar 01, 2005 5:52 pm

the parts you say you changed, there was no mention of the high tension leads.( only a thought)

they can corrode over time, may spark with plugs out of cylinders,
but not when under compression