M20 starts and dies after 5 secs. Help!

[mother_russia]

I'm trying to finish up my e30 project and I'm having issues keeping it running. On a cold start, it starts right up and dies after about 5-10 seconds. After it dies, it won't start up again, but just crank over.

I think it might be the MAF sensor, but I really don't know. Does anyone have any idea why it's dying?
I'm doing a compression test tomorrow.

Here is what it sounds like. And the knocking you're hearing from the head is because of low oil levels. It's leaking oil from a bad oil pan seal, and I forgot to add some before cranking.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kfR1s3jAcU

[jlevie]

The first things I'd check would be a search for intake leaks (preferably via a smoke test) and a check of fuel rail pressure when starting the engine.

[mother_russia]

How would I perform a smoke test?

[IRON-E]

CPS broh

[jlevie]

How would I perform a smoke test?

A smoke test is done by plugging the exhaust, replacing the AFM with an adapter for smoke introduction, connecting the smoke machine, and pressurizing the system to 2-4psi. That smoke pressure is held for at least five minutes to allow smoke to work it's way to every leak. In the case of a gross leak, it may not be possible to achieve the necessary pressure until some repairs are done. Which means the test has to be repeated.

Because of the special equipment needed, this really isn't a DIY job.

[mother_russia]

Actually, I was right!
It was my MAF sensor. I got a new one today and it runs like a dream!