fuel pump circuit not grounded?

[Bearmw]

I am looking at an 88is that cranks and runs only when ether is sprayed into the intake. Fuse 11 is good. Checked with test light and found power at the pump connector under the back seat. Pump will not run. What is the next step in testing? Is the pump circuit not completing the loop because of a bad pump or because the wiring from the pump to ground is bad? I don't have a wiring diagram handy. I'm not sure if the power side or the ground side of the circuit is controlled by the DME, etc.

[jlevie]

The ground for the fuel pump is to a stud on the left side of the car under the rear seat. The DME controls the fuel pump relay which supplies power to the pump. Since you have power to the pump, it sounds like you have a dead pump.

[Kvasi]

There is often a bad connection on them, try to "bend" the plug under the back seat when turning the engine and see if it works.

[Cabriolet]

+1 for a strait up dead pump. ive had 2 die on me. i even ran a 12v line to it from the battery and got nothing. so i think you are seeing what i saw when mine died.

[StereoInstaller1]

80% of the time you can whack a dead pump and it will fire up.

[Bearmw]

Thanks for the input. I will try the "impact treatment" to the pump but even if that helps a new one is in order. What is the best source for a replacement pump? Should I do the "vega" or alternative pump cobbled to my existing unit or just spend the money on a new BMW pump? What are my options...I'm keeping the car BTW but don't like to spend more than necessary.

Just realized the Vega option is only for the dual pump cars.

[StereoInstaller1]

I always seem to part out a car when I need a new fuel pump. Seems like I always hear "it just got a new pump"...

[Cabriolet]

luke is right. i was able to wake mine and keep it alive for 3 months. take out the backseat and slam your foot down on the cover. works in a pinch.

spend the money and get a new one from pelicanparts.com