Probable failing Crank Position Sensor

[Clifford Pope]

Originally Posted by Stephen Edwin

Aha the oil separator, thanks. I'm wondering which bits I should remove or perhaps detach to get good access and how to detach them "efficiently" and without disturbing e.g. the fuel supply. That should perhaps give a better chance of a straight pull?

There is in theory just enough clearance under the manifold without needing to dismantle anything. The problem is the bundle of wires in the loom, which has to be eased gently aside, making it hard to get a straight pull sufficient to retract the plastic bit fitting in the block seal.
As I said, this isn't helped by the plastic lug projecting on top, whose only purpose is to fix a tie holding the wiring loom. I don't see why this can't be cut off to gain about 1/2" of clearance, and on replacement the loom just clipped to something else if it really needs securing.

[Stephen Edwin]

Thanks Clifford.

Yes I have noted about the bundle of wires. Thanks for that.

I'm not sure when I'll manage to get at that job. I think that I will continue to look carefully and when I eventually have a go I'll undo some fixings and move components aside to get some clearance of access.

Years ago I would tackle almost anything on my then cars....preferably with the Workshop Manual.

I have mainly through health changed in life generally not just about cars. I have a deep caution about doing almost anything nowadays. When I actually do the various tasks all goes well, so far. That's me/my health. When I was new in the forum I replaced the head gasket and cambelt. I was greatly helped by extremely patient advice given in the forum.

[Stephen Edwin]

Re the starting concerns, the car is starting OK. It can be juddery briefly after starting.

I'm preparing myself for such tests as I can do. Hopefully I'll do some tests next week.

I'm above my head in swamp and alligators re non-car stuff at the moment.

[AlexO]

Stephen,

Again speaking from experience but I had some lumpy running and a lambda light last year. After panicking a bit at the price of a new MAF my (F1 engineer and all-round hero) brother suggested electrical contact cleaner for the electrical contacts on the MAF and some carb cleaner sprayed inside it. I know everyone bangs on about how it's self cleaning and everything but after that I've not had a problem with it.

Hope that helps,

Alex

PS I've got some tasty plans for those wheels by the way

[Stephen Edwin]

Thanks Alex.

At the moment the MAF itself is not in the frame. I am waiting for delivery of dielectric grease to clean and lube contacts at the MAF and at the ECU. And there will be repeat and further tests. Including little testers to fit on the spark plugs and see how strong the HT energy seems to be.

I might get a bit done to the car in this coming week.




P.S. What flavour for the wheels?

I could find you some Tika Masala. Or. Tarka Masala....tarker is a little 'otter...

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