No start, electrical problem?

[jst01]

problem solved.
The car has been running very good for 2 weeks so far 100miles a day. even made it out to a track day at button willow a day after I got it running.
Stupid me...I checked the mechanical timing but didnt check the ignition timing.
The half of woodruff key was broken into little pieces on the crank angle pulley side but lucky half of crank gear pulley side was intact, which saved my motor.
The cause of woodruff key failure I believe was using a impact gun to tighten the main bolt...i know i know I will never do that again

thanks everyone for you help!

Old post, but I think I have a similar issue. I am not a mechanic. 1st shop replaced catalytic converter ($200) close to where I was standed; did not help. My 'regular mechanic' now wants to replace alternator ($475). Already had to tow it in twice too ($65 per tow...). Thoughts?

[DesktopDave]

Old post, but I think I have a similar issue. I am not a mechanic. 1st shop replaced catalytic converter ($200) close to where I was standed; did not help. My 'regular mechanic' now wants to replace alternator ($475). Already had to tow it in twice too ($65 per tow...). Thoughts?

I missed your post for some reason...it's not coming up in the 'new posts' section.

I'd say that your mechanic is just throwing parts at your problem to make it go away...I'm not saying he's a bad mechanic...but it's hard to keep customers happy with old cars like these.

How handy are you with tools?  You can pull the alternator and get it tested at Advance Auto or Pep Boys for free.  They don't go bad very often.

[Mike_L]

New here, I have a 96 318 convertable and my son has an 85 318.

We have a problem with the 85 that quits and seems to have fuel and spark, wont start untill after several hours and up and running again.  Thinking crank sensors, understanding there may be two, where are they and how do I test these sensors?

Thanks  Mike

[Ramblin MAn]

The 85's have the m10 in them with ditributor. No crank sensor in those. I have had the same problem in my 84. You need to check to make sure you have good REGULAR spark via a timing light.

Howver, My car turned out to be the wiring to the coolant temp sensor on the top of the motor in the front where the two radiator hoses connect to the block.