re. 5000 turbo that wont run

[ben swann]

Brian,

Congrats on your new acquisition.  Don't despair, once you get the
initial kinks worked out you'll find this to be reliable and enjoyable.

I have on at least two occasions with a 5ktq encountered the symptoms
such as yours.  After extensive troubleshooting and chasing problems
that seemed relevant - fuel pressure tests, etc. I found the problem,
which I should have ruled out in the first place.  Of course a lot of
problems end up being that way.

Check/Replace your ignition switch.  They often get flakey in a way
that current is supplied to the ignition/ECU tracks when the key is
turned to start.  Then when the key is released, power gets cut to
either fuel/ECU or ignition.  At least that is how mine failed X 2.
The switch should only be around $35 ( I got mine from my dealer for
even less with a discount).  Sometimes you can get a failing switch to
work intermittantly in the way the key is released - why one of the
cars worked everytime I went to start it after my wife called me with a
breakdown, and I'd say "you just need the magic touch" not realizing
how true my statement was.

So check that out before going off on too many other tangents.  Also,
invest in the Bentley shop manual, if you haven't already.  They seem
expensive, but usually pay for themself the first time you use it.

Ben

[Hi,
Im new to the list.  Just subscribed today
I picked up a non running 87 turbo.  The car was running until about 2
months ago. When I got it home, I tried to start it, and it started.
The only trouble is that it only ran for about 5 seconds
Turn of the key, restart, and the same thing happens.(run for 5 seconds
then stop) then the engine stops, I can still hear the fuel pump
running behind me.  It runs for about 3 seconds, then stops.
I wanted to test the fuel pump, but when I put a fuse in the top of the
relay, where the jumper is said to go, the fuel pump wont start.
Like I said, I am new to the list, and to the audi brand.
Any help would be greatly appreciated
Tia
Brian]