Bad fuel pump?

[glucklich21]

So I finally got my S50 running today and ran into a slight problem. I think it isn't getting enough fuel. Its starting sequence goes like this:

1st start: Starts, idle surges to 3k, then settles down and idles, I turn it off. (10 secs running)

2nd start: Starts, idling, then sputters and dies

3rd: Start, one pop from combustion, then dies. Every start after that is the same.

To get it to run again, I have to unplug the battery and the whole process starts again.

Background on the car and engine:

The E30 has been sitting for 3 years. Fuel isn't the best, but it's currently a mix of 50% of old and new. The fuel filter is new and the pump was replaced with a working unit by the PO.

75K S50 all refreshed with a red label 413 DME.

I don't mind buying a new pump, but I would like some opinions before I do.

Here's a video of a 2nd start: http://www.facebook.com/v/10150339914888079


Thanks :)

[Adrian_Visser]

Try the filter first.

[sticksdaman]

Check that you have power to the gn/vi with the key in the second position. You should hear the fuel pump prime.

If you have power to the pump, but it doesn't prime, then either its the relay or the pump, I'd guess the pump first, never had a fuel pump relay go bad on me.


I had this EXACT issue on Saturday. Car died on me on the way to the exhaust shop, ran the tests, determined that it was fuel related. I swapped out the fuel pump with the spare I had in my trunk and she fired right up.

Definitely check the fuel pump. A spare fuel pump in the trunk is mandatory for any e30 I own.

[glucklich21]

Try the filter first.

Well someone failed reading comprehension. :)


I'll get the voltmeter out and see what it says.

[glucklich21]

It has power.

I'll see if I can find me a replacement around town and report back. Worst case I have a new fuel pump, which isn't a bad thing. If it isn't that I'm thinking maybe ICV. I had my doubts about it since I first got the engine. It had water sitting in it.

[e30s50dan]

I just picked up an e30m3 and I have two bad pumps and a rusty ass tank