Porsche Repair: Porsche Fuel Delivery, volume test, auto parts store

Question
I have an 83 911 that has beem in storage for 8 months. I am trying to start it. Battery is now strong and get good crank power. Car will not start. Fuel injection delivery is in question. I pulled a couple plugs and placed a small amount of fuel in the cylinder and tried to start. The motor appeared to fire on the fuel I placed but that was it. I've tried it a couple times and get the same results. Is there a way to prime the fuel injection or? Thanks  

Answer
Hi Gary.

Gunk and crud built up in the fuel injectors may be at the heart of your problem.  I don't believe there is a way to prime the system in the way you're referring.

Unfortunately I don't have a 911 specific reference manual, as I've never been lucky ehough to own one...but I can refer to a 944 manual as I was the caretaker for my daughter's '91  944S2 while she had it.

Hopefully these instructions will make sense to you as you're looking into your engine compartment.

I'd check that the fuel pump is getting fuel to the fuel rail first.  The idea is to  depressurize the system, disconnect the battery, and "unscrew the caps" from the forward end of the fuel rails.  The 944 fuel pump test results in 850cc of fuel in 30 seconds.  In your case, I'd just want to see that the fuel is gushing quite nicely from the fuel rail for just enough seconds to satisfy you.

Another test would be to verify fuel pressure, which would require a gauge set up in the fuel line.  I'd skip this test for now.  If the vloume seems OK but the  pressure is low you should at least get more engine activity than what you describe.

One other thing you might consider is this.  While performing the fuel volume test add a fuel filter into the line close to the fuel rail opening.  You can buy a generic clear plastic-like filter at your auto parts store.  If you see any evidence of gunk or crud in the fuel filter after your volume test...the next logical step is to remove and clean the fuel rails and injectors.

When you get to that point write back to me.  Actually I won't have any special words of wisdom at that time, but I could console you and help keep you from whimpering.  Thanks

Dave