D-jet not starting, car hasn't run in over 10 years Options

[lsintampa]

75 914/4 2.0 d-jet

I've posted many times for help with injectors, vac hoses, etc. I think I'm past that point now and need help figuring out why I can't start the car.

I managed to get some signs of life, but only when I let the key off of the start position. In other words, while the motor is cranking, no signs of anything... then when I let the key go (back to the on position), it may or may not try to fire... got one decent backfire (smoke out the exhaust) one time.

Battery is tired now, so I'm done until tomorrow.

Car hasn't run in over 10 years, so it may be tired.

Injectors are clean and tested OK out of the car. New starter.

Hoses all connected - best I can tell. The oil breather hose is NOT connected to the air box, and I think there is one other outlet on the top of the air filter box without a hose.

Did test for spark a while ago, seemed OK.

Timing - IDK, I only see one mark on the fan and it's yellow - assume that to be TDC???

[Java2570]

Have you verified fuel pressure is at 29-30 psi? If you are getting proper fuel pressure and you say you have spark, has the timing been checked? It kind of sounds like you aren't getting spark at the proper time for the car to start. I'd also double check that you have all your vacuum lines plumbed correctly for your engine. Having unplugged lines on the air intake should not keep the engine from firing but you should still get them all hooked up anyway. Verify that basic fuel, air & spark is good, test the CHT and MPS.
A bad CHT could definitely cause the engine to not start.....but do make sure that all your basics are covered first!