1986 BMW 528e Cranks but won't start

1986 BMW 528
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JCANGIALOSI
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I have a 528e with an Auto transmission , 158k miles. As of this morning the car will crank but not turnover. Has been working fine for the past year. I smell fuel and suspect that its not a fuel system problem, as it seems fuel is getting to where its supposed to. Battery, and starter are relatively new. any suggestions?
Sep 2, 2007 at 3:11 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
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start with the basics, does it have spark? is there fuel being injected? is the engine compression within a normal range? is the timing belt ok? repost and let me know
Sep 2, 2007 at 5:08 PM
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JCANGIALOSI
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After checking it seems that there is no spark but there is fuel being injected. I turned on the car and heard the fuel pump starting in the rear of the car. How would i check for the timing belt and engine compression?

Jeff
Sep 3, 2007 at 1:16 PM
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DOCHAGERTY
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As to the timing belt and compression question, I start by removing the oil cap and looking at the camshaft while the engine is cranked over. The compression test can be done by removing the spark plugs and installing a compression tester or by listening to the cranking speed of the engine, it should be steady.
Sep 3, 2007 at 5:46 PM
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