Hi all,

I'm stuck, for the moment, with trying to figure out why my 240 doesn't start. The first time I crank it after it's sat for a day, it starts immediately but then dies about a second or two later. On subsequent cranking it does nothing.

What I've tried and done so far:

- replaced the 25 amp fuse *and* fuse holder
- replaced all the fuses, cleaned all the contacts with a wire brush attachment on my dremel tool, and dabbed contacts with dielectric grease
- tested main relay *and* tried a brand new one
- jumped fuel pump fuses -- main pump sounds fine
- checked for spark at plug #1 -- looks fine
- cranking produces slight gas smell, including stronger smell from tailpipe

Conclusions, one of which must be false: (1) injectors are firing, or I wouldn't smell gas through the tailpipe, (2) fuel pump works, (3) there is spark, (4) timing isn't of, crankshaft isn't broken, etc., because after enough car will start and run for a second or two.

If anyone can offer any suggestions, they will be much appreciated.

Thanks,

-Lujo

you probbly need a fuel relay. I had the same symptoms, after i put a new fuel relay in it started right up. Good Luck

Wow, this is a good one.
I love thinking about problems like this one. .
when it is someone else's car. :)
I just wish I was familiar with your system.

The first thing that comes to mind when you say that it starts only after sitting all day is gasoline-fouled spark plugs. After it dies, examine a spark plug for wetness, and check that spark again to make sure you still have spark. Fouled spark plugs (assuming you have the correct plugs) would be a symptom rather than the root cause, but it would explain why the car does not start. If they are fouled and you still have spark, suspect the fuel pressure regulator.

After that, electrical resistance almost anywhere that causes a connection/wire/component to heat up and stop conducting. Most likely in the ignition, but if you still have spark during no-start, then it has to be in the fuel control system somewhere. The AMM is the place to start looking. The problem with that theory is that you'd expect the car to restart after cooling for only a few minutes.

Thanks for the suggestions. The weather's been bad so I haven't pulled a plug yet to see if it's dry or wet. I'll try that tomorrow. Meanwhile, I did some more troubleshooting -- details at http://www.brickboard.com/RWD/index.htm?id=593040.

Cheers,

-Lujo

Have you tried to start it with the amm disconnected?

The next time you crank it, remove the fuel pump relay cover and see if both the 'contacts' turn on. If they do, then check the ign system, the hall sensor, coil, ect.