only strts with starter fluid

[Turbotickler]

Hey quick run down... 1990 Eagle Talon TSI AWD.

everything is stock with the exception of the cat elimination. I am having hard starts, either hot or cold. Usually I can hold the starter for several seconds, let go then hold the starter again, and it might start up.

If I spray starter fluid in the intake, the right up.

what could it be? Car runs fine after starting, only CEL i get is knock sensor, but that has been on for a while. Due to faulty connection ( i think)

 

[Enigma_Man]

You could have a large boost leak. See my .sig for directions on building an intake leak tester.

-Jesse

 

[Turbotickler]

Ive tested for boost leaks. But I havent had a problem with boosting. The car runs great when running. It is just having a hard time starting, If I spray starter fluid in the intake, it starts right up with no hesitation or problems.

Thanks!

 

[Enigma_Man]

Hmmm.... If you crank it for a long long time, and it will eventually start, your fuel system might be losing pressure when you shut the car off (It's supposed to keep pressurized, I'm pretty sure).

Other things... hmm.... I'm not sure, I haven't encountered this much.

The only time I have a problem starting is when the battery terminals get corroded, which is obvious, cause the car just shuts off when I try and start it. It's definitely electrical, unlike your problem.

Sorry I'm not of more help.

-Jesse

 

[4g64GST]

I would check for fuel leaks, reason for long starts is waiting on fuel pressure to built up. maybe

got good plugs and spark???

 

[bighopes]

fuel pump may be going bad, fuel filter clogged, or injectors going bad, I'd start from your injectors and work your way back, if it starts everytime with the starting fluid your problem almost has to be one of those 3 items. hope it helps

 

[ImportModder]

Sounds like maybe the fuel pump or maybe your regulator isn't keeping the system pressurized.

 

[atc250r]

My GVR4 did that when I switched the coolant gauge and coolant temp sender wires around. Check what the coolant temp sensor is reading and if it is ridiculously high or low it is either bad or you hooked the wires up wrong. Mine said it was like -43 degrees outside but for some reason there was barely any fuel getting into the motor, I pinched off the return line and then it started right up. Once it was warm it started and ran fine.

John

 

[vlaar]

I'm having a similar problem. Only I don't use starter fluid to start the car. If my car sits overnight, it takes SEVERAL cranks to start up. I can usually hit the fuel pump relay 'button' on my pocketlogger to help engergize the system/pump. I started having the problem after I replaced the fuel filter. I'm trying to think how the fuel system could lose pressure... Fuel filter is tight. Here is what has been replaced recently: injectors, battery, fuel pump (6 months old or so) and fuel filter. FPR is still stock. Could this be it? Once the car starts, it runs like a champ. Vacuum lines are in great shape. Help