Saab: 95 Saab 900 Starting Problem, typical signs, saab 900

Question
QUESTION: My Car is having trouble Starting. It will turn over and I can smell gas. It will start after turning the engine over a few times, but when it is shut off it does the same thing. It is taking longer to get it to start each time; like the problem is getting worse. What is most likely the problem?

ANSWER: Brandon: While there may be several possible reasons for your problem, in my estimation the most likely is a weak fuel pump. Typical signs of fuel pump failure show up when starting, in that the voltage reaching the pump is reduced due to the current draw by the starter during cranking. When a fuel pump fails, one of the first signs is not operating at reduced voltage (10-12 volts). Once the car is started, the voltage rises and then the fuel pump operates normally. One way to check/verify this is to provide a separate 12 volt supply to the fuel pump during a test start. The terminals can be reached under the trunk's floor from the top by removing a round metal cover. Use a source (such as another car battery)that will provide a steady 12 Volts at 5 amps.


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QUESTION: Fuel pump is fine! I even pulled the plugs to check for spark. I still cannot get it to start. What should I check next?

Answer
Sounds like the cold start circuit is involved; this is usually governed by a temperature sensor that enriches the mixture at starting. One test you can do the verify if there is a lack of cold start enrichment is just before attempting to start, spray a bit of starting ether into the intake, in the vicinity of the air filter. If this allows instant startup, then the cold start circuit is somehow at fault.  If so, then you must check all individual components in accordance with trouble shooting procedures in the repair manual.