Check for vacuum leaks (archive)

These cars are real particular about vacuum leaks. The car won't run right with even the smallest leak. Check all hoses (some are hidden below the intake manifold), the seal around your oil cap, and the seal around your dipstick (yes that can be a problem).

When you're sure everything is sealed up tight, check spark on all cylinders and timing.....wouldn't hurt to check the sparkplugs in each cylinder for wetness, etc.

If all of the above prove inconclusive, find someone who can check fuel pressures for you.

If all else fails, go to the Rathskeller and do a case study!

- Go Lions

I just bought a '82 320is ($275) and I need some advice in getting the engine running. Right now it fires up, runs a bit rich but no smoke, but doesn't idle below 3000 or so. It runs a bit rough (172,000 miles on it) but still sounds like it isn't misfiring. I've got a list of some ideas to try:
� Check pressure from the fuel pump
� New air filter
� Check injector spray
� See what compression is at
� New plugs, wires, possibly new coil

I was just wondering if anyone has had this kind of problem before with the 320i engine, and any suggestions about how to fix it or narrow things down a bit.
Thanks

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