Car won't start...

[miksgtx]

I have a 84' 533i..and for some stupid reason it won't start..doesn't seem to be getting any spark..so whether that means the wires, which were replaced not too long ago..or the coils...or something..I need Help in the worst way..I need to get this thing going..is there electrical to check..the car will crank and crank, but no starting and it seems to be getting fuel....so what gives...thanks in advance..

[4-Door Flunky]

Have you done a test to be sure it's definitely not getting spark? To check that, I pull a spark plug wire off of a spark plug, stick a screwdriver in the end to contact the electrode, and then hold it close to anything metal (like the motor) that is definitely grounded. While holding it close (but not touching), I have my girlfriend crank the motor (make sure it's not in gear; please, don't let your helper run over you with the car...). When the motor is cranking, you should see a fat, blue spark.
No matter what, it's a good idea to play with the fuses. Sometimes they get jarred out of position, and aren't making contact. That could stop your spark or your fuel. Just pop the box open, take 'em out one at a time, and put 'em back in, making sure they contact.
The ignitions in these cars are very reliable, which is why I suspect you're not getting fuel. My car had a starting problem that was related to a bad fuel relay...although it would run for 2 seconds every once in a while, which yours isn't doing. If it'll run even for one second, the problem is not your ignition.
Good luck.
Flunky
PS-I've got a 1985 535i.

[miksgtx]

Yeah, we alread checked for a spark via the ignition wires...I will have to figure out what else it is..any more ideas, please throw them my way..cya Mik

[jeffreyb4me]

If you don't have the means to do testing, first components to replace are the DME Main & Fuel Pump Relays. The 'main' will effect ignition and fuel, the pump relay only powers the fuel pump. very common failures.......best to you.

[KC Ron Carter]

I would bypass the OBC relay by connecting the green power leads.

This is an e24 so the fuses are different but the rest is the same.

[miksgtx]

Thanks alot guys..we did get it fixed..the fuel pump relay wasn't seeing any power..thanks again..

[4-Door Flunky]

Glad you got it going!
Flunky