E39 540i swings but won't take

[Turbo6]

Hi Guys

Have a bit of a problem and need some help.

Okay actually its a big problem.

Bought a 540i. Late '99 model with dual VANOS. Then picked up a timing chain rattle. One weekend later, stripped and replaced the timing chain guide rail, the main U-shaped one that sits between the 2 banks. All the teflon lining had perished so it had to be replaced as it was rattling like lifters!

Anyways, cut a long story short, after we assembled and did timing and were ready to start, someone (blame it on Murphy) forgot to tie down the live battery terminal (that sits on the right tappet cover) and when I reconnected the battery, it arched against the body and I immediately disconnected the battery. It arched maybe for a split second cos we heard it and picked up a spark at the battery terminal. No visible damage as the ignition was off, even the key was removed. We quickly tied it down in place, everything sorted. And then after a silent prayer, we swung and she took first time. Settled into an idle, lifters began filling up, then after like 1 or 2 minutes, she died. Now the car won't start. :cursin:

It swings strong, dash lights come on and everything. Fuel pump comes on, spark is strong; actually very strong as I learnt the hard way. Funny thing is, when I disconnet the main fuel line at the injector rail to check for fuel pressure, it wanted to start. :dunno:

Then we put the fuel line back, clamped it, swung the car, and after a few seconds it started again but kinda struggling and smothering as it revs up. Then it idles a bit and dies once I release the clamped on the fuel pressure. There is spark, there is fuel, cam timing is 100%, double checked everything, twice and thrice - but now I am at my wits end! :banghead:

What next? Run diagnostics? I'm stumped!

HELP!!!!! PLEASE!!!!!!!

 

[P1000]

Run diagnostics. You probably damaged some electronics or a sensor.

 

[zaleonardz]

Diagnostics, and an adult nappy.

May have popped the ECU....

 

[Turbo6]

Eina! Don't say that! Stop that kind of talk! :cursin:

I mean guys...whereTFuk am I gonna get a replacement ECU for a dual VANOS 540i??? :dunno:

 

[zaleonardz]

Well dont jump to conclusions yet.

Diagnostics is your first port of call.

 

[rick540]

Here's what I would try

Unplug all the sensor plugs and connectors one by one, clean very well with spray brake cleaner, dry properly then add some silicone spray and plug them all back on.

Check the MAP thermostat wiring for shorting as well (very common on these cars and a cause of many fires)

Remove the plugs after cranking and check if they are wet with fuel or not.

Look for air leaks, these engines will not start if there is a large leak on the intake.

Failing that check the injectors for blockages (Remove fuel rail, leave connected and crank the engine (Keep a fire extinguisher handy but shouldn't be a problem)

try see if the car starts whilst you are spraying carb cleaner/starting fluid/petrol into the intake.

One or more injectors could be stuck open (That's why it almost started with fuel line removed?)

Clean the spark plugs with thinners, modern unleaded leaves a layer of carbon on the plugs if it runs for only a minute or two

 

[naickers]

Had a similar issue with my 1999 540IM, in the boot on the right hand side is a fuse box, check the fuse for the fuel pump, or check all, my car had blown a couple in there, diagnostics did not even pick it up, changed the fuses and the car started up fine after that,

 

[pastorduran]

This may sound silly but trust me, it happend to me,

1. make sure you have over 30litres of petrol in the tank.
2. if not, fill 30l in, the more the better
3. try starting (if still swinging)
4. wait about 2hours for e39 will self bleed!
5. try starting again,

it worked for me,
hope it helps!