It's sooooo close!

Yesterday the new starter went in. I didn't rewire everything, I just used the external solenoid I installed as a junction point. I do intend to remove the solenoid, and wire everything directly to the starter, but I needed new wires, and I was too excited to stop everything and run out for new parts.

I looked down the bellhousing once it was installed, and verified that the starter gear was properly aligned with the flywheel, and everything looked perfect.

So, it was time to make an attempt at starting the engine. I turned the key, and really hoped to hear a triumphant roar. No such luck. The engine turned over, and attempted to start though! After several attempts, the engine trying to start each time, the battery was starting to die and the starter was getting hot, so I gave it a rest. Right before I left the car, I turned up the fuel pressure. I was thinking that the injectors may be higher pressure than previously expected, so I thought I might give it a shot.

After a few hours of letting the battery charge, I gave it a shot. This time the engine tried really hard to start, but wouldn't idle. It sounded like the engine was not getting enough fuel. I continued to increase the amount of fuel, but every time it tried to start, it would either immediately stall, or it wouldn't quite start.

Cody took a look at it, and believes it may be a vacuum leak. I know there are vacuum leaks, so if all it takes is plugging them up, I would be very pleased.

So, off to the auto parts store today. I need to get a new battery cable anyway to remove the solenoid.