89 L, EFI, Automatic, Brain cramp

[briggs]

RockAuto called and said my ECU is un-repairable. Once plugged into their equipment, the car computer does not return a signal.
So they're sending it back with no charges. Damn!

[89newb]

Briggs check your messages

[TominMO]

I bought this car to put a twin cyl. Briggs engine in, but since it only has 130k miles I figured I'd get it running and drive it till it drops first.

Ha! If you wait for the motor to wear out, you'll never get that Briggs in it!

Why do you want to swap in a Briggs anyway? No power, and probably not great gas mileage since it will be wide open all the time just trying to get anywhere. Sounds like time to swap in a B6 or better.

[Zanzer]

Since your car is an 89 EFI auto, does the ECM have 2 or 3 plugs?

[briggs]

TominMo, yeah I know! It's getting GREAT gas mileage right now! The B&S engine idea was just as a project, something to do, ya know. After I started looking at engines on the net, I think the biggest one I seen was a 34hp. My dream project was for a Harley engine. I don't have an extra laying around for that though!

Zanzer, mine is a 3 plug. 89newb might be hooking me up with one! Will keep you posted.

I want to thank everyone for the help I've received. Great bunch of guys across the US you are!!

[Zanzer]

^^ Cool deal man :thumbup:

Just checking because the 89 autos were kind of a crossover oddity. If all else fails you can (IIRC) get the ECU out of a Protege. It has the 3 plug setup.

Good luck and welcome to your newest addition! :mrgreen:

[kartracer46]

Let me know if it falls thru, I have several good ones here.

[WmWatt]

Cars are supposed to start and run without the computer, a fail-safe feature so the engine doesn't cut out on the freeway. The computer just improves fuel efficiency and thereby reduces emissions from unburnt fuel. It usually doesn't kick in until the O2 sensor warms up and begins to function. I think a bad ignition control module (transistorized points) can keep a car from starting. Mine would start but only run for a few seconds until the ICM was replaced. As someone pointed out they can be tested for free at some auto parts stores.

[briggs]

Wm, rebuilt distributer has been installed.

[briggs]

Different ECU installed, no change. Back to the drawing board.

[briggs]

I do have spark, power relay is clicking as is the fuel pump relay. I do have good fuel pressure to the injectors, they're just not getting the signal to pulse....Grrrrrrrrrrr!

[briggs]

HOT DAMN! The Junkstiva started today, after working on it for 2 months!! I redid 3 wire ends (one to the water temp sending unit and 2 out of the dizzy). And it's 104 degrees outside, with 90 in the garage. Old gas in it, so I topped it off with new and a can of Seafoam. Not alot of power yet, but I've gotta dial in the dizzy.
Thanks to all who have helped me with suggestions!!!

I'm headed back out to the garage to just look at it now, with a full blended pitcher of strong margarita's!

[briggs]

car is still running strong and on its 2nd tank of gas!

[walth]

no more beano?

glad you got it going again! technical funny stuff like that can drive anyone mad

[FB71]

Cars are supposed to start and run without the computer, a fail-safe feature so the engine doesn't cut out on the freeway. The computer just improves fuel efficiency and thereby reduces emissions from unburnt fuel. It usually doesn't kick in until the O2 sensor warms up and begins to function. I think a bad ignition control module (transistorized points) can keep a car from starting. Mine would start but only run for a few seconds until the ICM was replaced. As someone pointed out they can be tested for free at some auto parts stores.

WHAT???

Someone needs to go to school....