won't start warm getting worse >> for the archives

[jackbaggins]

Hi, I used to post on these boards all of the time a long, long time ago. It's funny seeing posts you've written in the archives from 8 or 9 years ago......

Over the past couple of days my 84 325e developed a no-start condition at first only when warm, but soon after it worsened into no-start when cold. The engine would crank and crank and nothing. I replaced the main and fuel pump relays as well as swapping in a spare ECU. There were a few times when it sputtered to life, but if I turned it off (sometimes after driving many miles), it would not start again. My inline fuel pressure gauge told me I had good fuel pressure. On a hunch that the cold start system was to blame, I disconnected the thermo time switch and hit it. After a few cranks, the engine started, but a very rough start. When I got home, I killed the engine and it restarted (hot). Tomorrow I am going to replace the TTS and hopefully resolve the issue.

I will report back to the group. I just wanted to type this up for the archives. No start I believe is contributed to a faulty cold start system.


Derek
84 325e
87 535is

[MikeG]

Good luck on start issue...I'm sure you'll figure it out.

[jackbaggins]

Hey Mike,

Glad to be able to help. I also used to post under the nick 'concerned citizen'....where did those years go?


Derek
84 325e
87 535is

[kosinar]

I have a similar problem. Over the time car is harder and harder to start regardless if cold or hot. Can you help with advice on where is the Thermo time switch and cold start valve located? Thanks.

[jackbaggins]

I cleaned and reset the contacts on both the Thermo Time Switch and Cold Start Valve, problem solved. The car starts right up, cold or hot.