9 replies to this topic

[spiggy]

I had a problem with my immobiliser in as much as it wouldn't de immobilise the engine! I have disconnected it but now have the following problem...

 

I have four wires from my ignition switch: Brown, Green/white, white and white/red. I have connected them all together but when I try to start the car it turns over fine and fires up but when I release the key it cuts out. If it has any bearing, this all started as I foolishly tried to replace the indicator flasher unit whilst the engine was running. I had a three pin unit replacing the original two pin but put the wires on wrong. There was a tiny puff of smoke and the engine cut out. I presumed the immobilser had spazzed out as i lost my ingition light even when I disarmed said immobilser with the key. I had all electrics on the first click of the key (wipers, heater etc) but no ignition light and no starter .Thats why I disconnected it. I have replaced all the fuses in the car for good measure....... why oh why?.. I am living and learning I hope

[Dusky]

I think youll have to get a multimeter..

[Tamworthbay]

What car? 998/1275, carb, spi MPi?

If it has an electric fuel pump then it is most likely that it's not getting a supply in normal driving key position, when you turn the key to start the car the fuel pump is powered from a different circuit. If it is a mechanical fuel pump then the problem is in the starting circuit and a bit trickier to diagnose but still within the abilities of a beginner armed with a multimeter.

[dklawson]

As above, please give a bit more information about your car.  If possible, include a picture of the ignition coil and distributor.

[spiggy]

1990 Mayfair 998. Coil and distributor as standard.

[Ethel]

Classic ballasted ignition fault. Try running 12v direct to the coil +ve. But only to confirm, things will melt if you run it like that.

[spiggy]

Thank you. I'm off hunting for 10 feet of wire..

[Ethel]

10 feet, where's your solenoid or fusebox mounted?

 

Best option is to tap off a white wire on the fusebox. If it works you could still do with a meter to track down the cause.

[dklawson]

I was also thinking of the ballast wire failure as Ethel said.  

 

Keep in mind that if the engine runs with Ethel's wire installed, that is not a fix.  It is only a test.  You will need to figure out what has failed and fix it or make some component swaps to address this problem.  Running the ignition for extended periods with the external wire providing 12V to the coil will result in rapid failure of the points and coil.  

[spiggy]

Thanks for help lads, I get the gist now.. will report back in the week