A while back, I started a thread about my TII cranking like the spark wires were mixed up, and the car wouldn't start.

Well, it turns out that one of the primary injectors was bad and that was what kept it from starting.

Since then, I've fixed a bunch of stuff and begun tuning the LTX12. Now, it starts easily and idles smoothly at 850rpm.

This may not be a problem, but I'd appreciate input from ones who are more experienced with standalone (especially microtech) systems:
Most times, while cranking, the engine will chug just before the ignition catches on and it starts. As before, it sounds to me like the timing is screwy, and somehow the spark is firing early in the compression stroke.
I've confirmed that timing is correct (have re-installed the CAS per the manual just to make sure), and once started it 'purrs like a kitten'. Here is a link to what it sounds like. The first startup is what I think it should sound like all the time, the others present the 'chug' just before it catches.

http://ajaxoftherockies.com/audio/rx7startup.mp3

All these examples are different times starting it up over the course of about 10 minutes or so.

So, whadya think? Is this normal, or do I have some kind of gremlin still lurking around?

Thanks!

- k -

 

I don't think there's an issue. The CAS may jump time during cranking due to heavy current draws and noise, but resync by the next rotation.

 

Cool. that make sense. Had me puzzled since it idles so smooth.

Thanks!

- k -

 

unfortunately this seems to be pretty common with the microtech units.

seems to be hit or miss depending on what shielded CAS leads they sent you with the kit and how much electrical noise your car generates during cranking.

 

Thanks for the input on this. Earlier in my troubleshooting work on this car, I discovered that the CAS leads had very little shielding and nothing at all for several inches from the splice to the connector. I re-worked the crummy solder job, added shielding and re-routed the cable away from the spark plug wires.
That seemed to help some, but the weird reaction during crank had me concerned about what might be happening at other operating levels.

I appreciate the clarification.

- kel -

 

it would be nice if they would add a ground strap for the sheilding to help promote noise reduction even further.

 

that's a good idea. I wonder if adding a ground strap to the shield I built would improve it. It would be simple enough to add.