Diagnostic Assistance Needed -- 88 5KSQ

[Mike Arman]

>
> 1. Diagnostic Assistance Needed -- 88 5KSQ (b1biker at aol.com)
>

>
> Basic problem - car is almost impossible to start if temps are below 50 degrees and if it does
> start it will not respond to throttle inputs until engine has thoroughly warmed up
>
> I've run the blink code diagnostics and get results that don't follow what is listed in Bentley
> crank engine for 6 seconds (or more) - bridge fuel pump relay - code 4444 - bridge fuel pump
> relay - code 1111 - bridge fuel pump relay - code 0000 according to Bentley after I get the 4444
> code I should get the 0000 code rather than 1111 - it does not have any data relating to any
> other codes than 0000 at this point in the diagnostic cycle. In the chart it lists a 1111 code as
> indicative of a failure in the ignition/fuel injection control modules and states that the repair
> procedure is to replace the ignition control module. If anyone can give me direction as to what
> has actually failed and how to proceed it would be greatly appreciated. Gary Meier -- 88 5KSQ, 94
> S4
>

I'd change the multi-function temp sensor (or the plug and/or wiring to it) on the top front of the 
engine LONG before I started to look at the ECU. The mfts is a common failure, if it doesn't talk to 
the ECU and tell it "hey the engine is cold, richen the mixture!", the ECU will think the car is 
already warmed up and set the mixture accordingly.

One thing I've finally learned (after 50 years of fooling around with various flavors of machinery) 
is to look at the cheap, simple, easy stuff first - it is very dramatic to say "the main part 
failed, it cost $XXX,XXX" but that isn't usually what's wrong and there are no returns on electrical 
parts.


Mike Arman
90V8Q
others (ask Cody Forbes!)