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1991 BMW 850 Repair Question


Topics covered: Engine, Fuel pump, Choke.
Mileage: No information provided.

Asked on July 12, 2009

1991 BMW 850

Engine Performance problem
1991 BMW 850

Hi!

I know it is an 850 (same as other 12v BMW of the era) at the engine. Also, my question is a general question.

Why an engine would not pick up RPM but get choked?

Spark OK
DME ok
MAF ok
COIL OK
fuel pump runs

doesn't start cold
Starts warm (it is one side of the v12, that is how it is possible)
keeps running idle while warm but for any attemp to give some gas, it chokes and stalls.
Avatar Asked by hhy2k

Answer

Replied on October 26, 2009

the sympton you describe can be caused by an entire cylinder bank not functioning. A way to determine if an entire bank is not working is to disconnect the mass air flow sensor while the engine is running. If the engine dies, then that bank is the only one working. If there is no change in the idle when the mass air flow sensor of a bank is disconnected, then that bank is not working. In my opinion, the highest probable cause in such a circumstance is most likely a bad fuel pump. The 750iL has two fuel pumps, one for each bank. If one dies, then the engine will still run, but with very poor acceleration because of the lack of power from one bank. The next most likely cause for the problem you describe would be the complete failure of the ECU for one of the banks, but since this part has no moving components as a fuel pump does, it's less likely to occur.

Tiny Answered by Dr Loot (expert)
2,178 answers provided