Engine Dead - Need help

[2TrunkSteve]

I agree that it may be time. I'm just confused about how the IMS could be causing this ignition issue. It turns over fine and there was nothing in the oil. Since there is so much muck in that area I am thinking the update is due now, but I would like to know the motor will run again before I start throwing money at the cluth and bearing upgrade.

If the motor is toast I have to have a serious talk with the wife. I'd like to know where I stand before I start removing the transmission. I'm just a backyard mechanic with average skills and a healthy dose of bravery. So far I've managed to maintain this and repair everything with the help of this board and the Pelican board, however, at some point I think I have to get this to a pro.

[Steve Tinker]

Have you checked for new fault codes since you replaced the plugs / coils and deleted the old fault codes??

[2TrunkSteve]

I did clear the faults after I replaced the plugs, coil and MAF. This thing has me stumped.

[mikefocke]

The timing chain that drives the cams goes around the teeth attached to the IMS (recall that the IMS is an intermediate shaft used to translate crankshaft motion to camshaft motion though the IMS term is often used as shorthand for the bearing in the forums). If the bearing gets loose, it can cause the chain to jump a tooth and the timing to be out. One of the ways of telling if the IMS is worn and wiggling is to compare the camshafts timing.

[BYprodriver]

I suspect you may have a IMS bearing problem. Knowledgeable boxster owners are always looking for a good time to inspect their IMS bearing since this is the only way to know it's actual condition. Sounds like this is a "good" time for you. Your OK oil filter is a good sign.

[2TrunkSteve]

After all the stress and worry, I finally took it to a shop. One new fuel pump later and it ran! The indy mechanic tells me the original was putting out 0-30 lbs of pressure. I'm hoping to tidy up a few other maintenace items and I'm working on a price for a new clutch and the LN Engineering bearing upgrade. Hopefully it will be something reasonable and I'll have her back on the road.

I can't wait, it's been 3 months!

[BYprodriver]

Good for you, failed fuelpumps seem to be the problem of the year so far!



I should check my fuel pressure.

[fd4007]

Hey Steve what became of this? I ask because my 97 base just cut out (got towed home) - it starts but then the engine immediately dies and I'm wondering where to start in fixing it.

[fd4007]

Sorry didn't see the most recent replies.