1987es won't start please help
 

HI,
We have a 1987 es that won't start. I t was running fine, we started it up and drove it to the store when we came out it wouldnt start it just turns over but no start. It is getting spark. We relly dont now a whole lt about mechanics and thought we would ask and see if anyone has any ideas on what it might be or any advise on how to check or test things it might be.
Thank you

Sounds like a typical failing fuel pump. You can try to "jolt" it back to life by lifting up the bottom cushion of your backseat (if just snaps into place), then pull back the insulating fabric, and then remove the passenger side metal cover that conceals your fuel pump. Tap on the top of the pump with a non-sparking object, being careful to not hit the electrical connector. (it will break). Try to start the car. If it doesn't work after a few light taps, hit it a bit harder and try again. If the car starts, you'll be needing to replace the fuel pump very soon. If it doesn't start, you can also try tapping the primary fuel pump which is located beneath your car near the back left tire. (early e30's had a "lift" pump beneath the seat and a primary high pressure pump near the tire). If tapping doesn't work, check fuses and fuel pump relays. Some would say check the electricals first but this is such a common problem in older e30's and a dead or dying pump is usually the culprit.

Checking the electricals first is EASY and you have to get to the pump to do it anyway. Put a DVOM over the posts and if you get 12 volts across a non functional pump while cranking, bad pump (and you just checked the entire fuel pump electrical system in one 30 second step). You can tap on it or just replace it knowing that it'll fire up (the pump) cause the power supply is good, you checked first and didn't just throw parts at it. Aside from that Tim IS right on the money.

:bash

Well all, thanks again for your help. After 1.5 days on my BMW, I got the ("electrical is easy") simple test at the fuel pump! (and my buddy owes me 5 bucks!) Interestingly, my nice PEAK diagnostic tool was of NO help...
thanks again,
doc