Porsche Repair: 1985 944 Porsche, 1985 944 porsche, airflow meter

Question
Trying to fix a problem for my son in law.  The engine seems to be leaning out for fuel.  When you go to start it it just sputters alittle but does not fire up.  I changed the fuel pump[he had a new one] and checked the fuel rail-plenty of fuel, good pressure.  When the car runs it rarely goes above 2200 RPM's.  Plugs are good, points are clean. What are your thoughts?  Thanks  Gene

Answer
Hi Gene,

Given the abundance of fuel, I'd check the airflow meter (in between the air filter and the intake manifold).  This meter (actually a swinging door or flap) can, over time, get gummed up with gunk and oily crud.  Normally, when the door moves as air is sucked into the intake, it's position is reported back to the computer.  The position reflects precisely how much air volume is being used.  The computer then matches this with the proper fuel input.  

If the meter sends the wrong message to your computer about how far it's open (because it's stuck in the wrong position or is being restricted by gunk and crud), the car will have trouble starting or running well.

Dave