Computer codes? 1111--Ned's comments

[Dan Cordon]

> i still don't see how a dead ecu will stop it turning
> over.....anyone care to explain?
>
> mike
>

I'm with you on this one. What I remember was that the engine didn't even turn over. I haven't tried it, but I'm guessing that my engine will turn over even w/o the ECU installed. (Though I wouldn't
put it past Audi to run the starter control through the computer......)

My first test would be to manually energize the starter. The starter should have battery power running to it, and a small wire to engage the 'big switch.' Simply jump from the battery to the small
wire *briefly* to see if it turns over. Right there, that will tell you if your battery and starter combination are good or not.

If that test works, then start tracing the small wire with a volt meter. What does it read (not connected to the starter) when the key is in the start position? If it's less than 10 volts, there's a
problem upstream.

If that test doesn't work, you likely have a bad battery, a bad starter, a bad electrical connection between the starter and battery, or something mechanically keeping the rotating assembly
from.....well...rotating.

Side story......a friend was 4x4ing with an old Bronco. While playing around the engine died pretty abruptly. He turned the key....nothing. Big click from the starter, but nothing rotated. So, he had
a friend hook a tow rope up and tried to jump start it. He could get going 45mph with clutch disengaged in 1st gear, and in 4wd (lockers front and back) and when he engaged the clutch he simply skid
all 4 tires down the road. The thing literally wouldn't turn over one bit. Figuring there was something majorly wrong with the engine they trailered it home and started pulling the engine. When they
took the starter out they found the nosecone had fallen off, causing the whole mess to jam against the flywheel and lock everything up. A new starter and it's been happy as ever. (Though I highly
recommended replacing the flywheel...)

--
Dan Cordon
Mechanical Engineer - Engine Research Facility
University of Idaho