328 won't start | FerrariChat

328 won't start

Discussion in '308/328' started by chiro007, Aug 6, 2006.

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  1. chiro007

    chiro007 Karting

    Feb 2, 2006
    114
    Stowe, Vermont
    Full Name:
    Bradley
    I have an 88 328 that has always started instantly. Recently one day it wouldn't start. It turned over fine but didn't sound like it was even close to catching and starting. Several minutes later it started. Today it won't start and I'm wondering what it could possibly be, fuel pump etc.... Thanks for your help....
     
  2. carlrose

    carlrose Formula Junior

    Nov 25, 2003
    324
    Hi Bradley ,

    Common culprits (assuming good mechanical engine condition): air, spark fuel.

    Air is unlikely, unless the CIS airflow sensor plate is sticking. You can remove the airbox top and push down to confirm it's free.

    Spark is most common. Put a timing light on the #1 plug wire to confirm spark when cranking. If present, check #5 to confirm present on both banks. If either is not firing, check the others on that bank, then coil wires, then rotors/caps. If you remove a wire, cut the end and reseat in the cap. The plug extenders are also notorious for arcing, but I expect that would cause poor running & not prevent starting. There are also two flywheel sensors on the 328, one for TDC and the other for tach/advance.

    Fuel pumps can fail; pull the "safety plug" blue connector at CIS fuel meter & turn key to run position; you should hear the fuel pump. After turning the engine over, you can pull a spark plug to verify fuel present in cylinder. There's also a "FI protection relay" on the Bosch ECU plate in the right rear that has a 10A fuse; again, this usually causes very poor running but perhaps could prevent starting. Fuel pressure testing requires a CIS fuel pressure tester kit.

    There are other possibilities, but these are good places to start. Most 328 "no-start" conditions are electrical/ignition in nature.

    Best,

    :) Carl
     
  3. 328Matt

    328Matt Karting

    Dec 3, 2003
    222
    Lymm,Cheshire
    Full Name:
    Matt
    Just had a similar problem with my car. I know from past experience that the relays are getting tired now. Checked the fuses-all ok,pulled the relay from the fuel pump and swapped it with the a/c relay(same bosch relay)...fired first time.relays are £11 from ferrari uk or a lot cheaper from a bosch parts dealer. I would definitley check your relays first!
     
  4. PeterS

    PeterS Five Time F1 World Champ
    Silver Subscribed

    Jan 24, 2003
    52,121
    Goodyear, AZ
    Full Name:
    PeterS
    Do you hear the clicking of the fuel pump?
     

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