Hello. I've recently been having an issue with my B18CR having difficulty starting. Keep in mind this is a STOCK 1998 JDM B18CR with the factory JDM ECU. Meaning I cannot connect this to a scan tool.

When the engine is cold. It can start usually on the second crank. However when I get it to operating temperature, turn it off and try to restart it. It will be VERY difficult to get it to fire up. It will crank no issue and try and get running but won't after many tries. Priming the fuel pump does nothing to help.
When it does start up. Sometimes it's with a CEL. Sometimes not. The engine runs great when running and driving. Its getting it started that's the issue.

I unplugged the IAT Sensor and cranked it over with no difference. I then unplugged the MAP sensor and cranked the engine and it fired right up but was in limp mode with a CEL. I don't know if the car just runs on a base map when the MAP sensor is unplugged, but the issue could be something else.

I also notice a fuel smell when cranking excessively and managed to get a backfire once.

Anyone have any idea? Thanks.

 

Fuel, air, spark, and compression is what make combustion engine run. You say you smell fuel, so you get fuel. To be safe, pull the injector out and see if it squirt fuel. Next check for spark, buy an in-line spark plug engine ignition tester, see if you get spark. Next check your timing, both on the cam and crank and also at the distributor end (cap and rotor). Then check compression, if compression is low, leak down.

 

 

I second the ECT sensor, sounds like its not reading correct once the engine reaches op temp. Try a new one there cheap. Also a bad map will usually give you issues starting when cold. I doubt its your map. Try replacing the ECT sensor first.

 

ECT replaced. Still no change. I did the CEL Flashing test and got a faulty #1 Cylinder position sensor fault. Looks like a need a new dizzy.