Mitsubishi Repair: no start 93 3000gt turbo vr4 manual, mass air sensor, oxygen sensors

Question
rebuilt the engine, rebuilt the ECU, got another throttle regulator,only added air filter upgrade with chrome y pipe. it turns over acts like it want to start, but doesn't. Air test- leak came from turbo pipe from back over to intercooler (leaking around the connection, pretty loud). is this enough to cause it not to start? check and rechecked timing marks they are good. i do notice gas on the spark plugs maybe flooded from trying to start it(replaced front 3 only). i sort of ran out of ideas. right know I'm thinking oxygen sensors and/or fuel relays(S). If you have any suggestion at all I'm all ears? it does seems to be rich. i can take the plenum off and it will start, but smokes and smells bad. help please any ideas???

Answer
Tremain,
A leaky intake around the intercooler is definitely enough to cause the engine to start.  If the leak is severe enough of if there is a clog, that will starve the engine of air. There could be a problem with your mass air sensor, and it's having a problem reading the amount of air entering the intake.  This can send false signals to the ECU, and prevent it from starting. If removing the plenum allows the engine to start, it sounds like you have an air intake issue.

Evidence of gas on the spark usually happen when the car does not start but you keep trying.  But it does show that your engine is getting fuel.  Your plugs may be fouled now, and you'll want to replace all 6 of them.  You should also check your ignition system.  Test the alternator and ignition coils.  If the spark is not strong enough or unable to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber, you'll definitely have problems starting.
Good luck!