intermittent spark-less problem

[fabe]

My E30 is running with a '95 M42 with the newer coil pack (see pic)



I have been having this weird problem where the engine would cut off.. and can't start again.. There's no spark at the spark plug. Had to pull out a plug cable, attached a spare plug to it and place it near a ground point and after a few cranks, the spark would come back...

was just wondering whether there's any error codes or symptoms if the solid state coils is nearing its life end???

[DesktopDave]

That's a cool setup you have there...haven't seen many e36 motors in e30s...

I'd check the coil pack resistance.  If they're overheating from the coil resistance failing, the DME coil driver transistors will randomly shut down your spark.  Eventually it'll damage the transistors and you'll have to swap that DME and coil pack for good ones.

[fabe]

thanks for the reply..
Any range of resistance value to take note of...