Starting problem--please help

[240ShaneX]

Hey guys, I have an s13 with a KADE and its having some starting problems. It cranks like 10 times before it starts, and used to to start after the third crank. if I crank it like 5 times then let off, then crank again it starts right up. I had this problem a few months ago and replaced the ignition starter switch, and it seemed to fix the problem, but now its back.

The starter sounds strong, battery is good, fuel filter is a Z32 about 15k miles old. When the car is running, there is no delay in throttle response, which leads me to "think" its not a fuel pressure problem, but I'm not positive. It just seems to me that if it was fuel pressure it wouldnt have good throttle response? I even let the fuel prime for like 30 seconds before starting and it still didnt help... any advice would be greatly appreciated!!!

[compactfean]

Sounds like it could be a few different things. Id start by checking for codes. Also check to see if you have 12v when cranking, on the start signal fuse inside the cab. Other things to check would be if the cts is within spec, as well as the coil. because fuel pressure is so easy to check I would check it anyways. Also when is the past time you've had the injectors cleaned?

[SBC 240Z]

Sounds like timing to me

[4cefed]

Try this:

Turn the key to the "ON" position for like 3 seconds and back off, back to "ON" for another 3 seconds then back to off. Then try to start normally. If it starts quicker or starts right up, I think the fuel is draining back to the tank when the car is off.

I think fuel pumps have some sort of internal check valve. I know with my SRT-4 if the fuel level is low (not sure why that matters) the car cranks over like 10 times before it starts. If I prime it first by going through that sequence, it starts right up.

[240ShaneX]

Thanks for the replies guys. I'm not sure what the "cts" stands for, but I have a new coil (MSD blaster 2), and my timing is advanced (dont remember what to, but it has been advanced for over a year and I didnt used to have this problem) so I doubt thats it. Revs smooth that strong once its running.

I have never had the injectors cleaned out of the car. I think Im gonna test the fuel pressure and then maybe get a new filter and run some seafoam through depending on the results. Ill also try that cycling thing! I wouldnt be surprised if my fuel pump was starting to go...

TO MODERATOR-- every time I type and click anywhere else in the text field to edit, it freezes and wont let me type anything

[SBC 240Z]

^^ I've had that problem on other forums before, i just figured it was my pos computer though

[falcon2]

Aloha 240ShaneX,
This might help with your 240sx starting problem.
Have you checked the "park-neutral start switch?"
My car had start problem symptoms like ones that you indicated.
I have a 240sx with an automatic transmission though so this might not apply to your car. If you have an automatic, one way to check it is as follows: When the car doesn't start up right away, turn the key until just before it activates the starter. Then put your foot on the brake and put the car in neutral if you have an automatic. Then try to start it up. If it starts up right away, then the "park-neutral start switch" might be faulty.
I had the local Nissan dealer find the part number for me. It's for the model S13 and it's listed under the "Control Switch & System" section of that dealers microfiche.
The part number is 31918 and cost $119 as of Spring, 2011.
This part is located along the exterior side of the transmission.

[240ShaneX]

thanks for the reply falcon, I have a manual though, but great info for anyone who searches!

[compactfean]

Sorry cts stands for coolant temp sensor. You will see slot of acronyms around here. Lol

[240ShaneX]

ahh gocha, ya ive learned most of them but wasnt sure of that one lol. i replaced that about a year ago though.

[compactfean]

Id still check it. I replaced mine on my sr and started running into problems about a year or so down the road. Come to find out my cts from autozone went out already. I want very happy. Ended up getting an genuine nissan cts.

[240ShaneX]

How would that affect starting though?

[compactfean]

The cts can cause all kind if problems, hot and cold starts, running rich, running lean. Etc.

[240ShaneX]

hmm good to know. Thanks!