1988 Mondial 3.2 Problems......HELP

Is this a euro-version 3.2 Mondial (i.e., K-Jet without Lambda so no cat nor O2 sensor) or a US-version 3.2 Mondial (i.e., K-Jet with Lambda so has cat and O2 sensor)? 1, 2, and 3 might be related if you have a US version and have lost the +12V power (from the protection relay) to run the injection system (especially if your mechanic has tweaked the mixture with the +12V power missing so warm-running isn't too bad).

I think there is no stock "starter motor relay" (for a euro or a US version) -- can you clarify with the letter and name of the relay given in your OM?

And when you say "the starter motor doesn't turn" does this mean:

1. the starter solenoid fires/clicks loudly, but the starter motor itself never spins, or

2. the starter solenoid does not fire/click?

 

Lot's of places to look given the symptoms. One place is to look for vacuum leaks which are often overlooked but can play havoc, particularly during warmup. Bad injectors can cause many of the problems you mention as well. I'd find a competent mechanic but these are just a couple of ideas.

Good luck,
Dave

 

Agree that there are many places and possibilities, but some of your problems are very reminiscent of when my o2 protection relay wet bad. Vacuum lines are always good to check as well.

As to the starter, indeed there is no stock starter relay, and it may be as simple as cleaning the contacts at the starter and ensuring a good ground. It's also been my experience, thaat the behavior you describe may be the first sign of a battery going poopy.

Good luck!

 

Some ways -- decode your VIN at www.red-headed.com or compare the components on your car to the figures shown in Section 3 of the US or euro OMs and see what matches up. The US version ("with Lambda") has a frequency valve driven by the ECU so this system can have electrical problems. If you can learn to "feel" the frequency valve, you can have an easy way to quasi-confirm/deny that the electrical part of the system is working -- the frequency valve (if so equipped) should be buzzing/vibrating whenever the engine is running (cold or warm). Perhaps your Mechanic has already verified the FV is active (which, at a minimum, confirms the +12V to run the system is present), but, if your FV is inactive, and you need a suggestion on where to measure with a voltmeter to confirm/deny +12V give a shout.

A common TR problem, and we've been guessing that it's brothers could have the same tendencies too if using the same vintage Bosch solenoid. The starter on your V8 is not as easily accessed as on a TR, but you'd need to know the voltage on the B (white) start command wire (terminal 50) while the key is in pos III and the solenoid is not firing -- if +12V, something "open" in the solenoid winding; if +8~10V, sort of normal -- if you do a search on "TR solenoid" you should get the background threads on adding a relay or getting a WAI solenoid; if less than a few volts, probably something bad in the ignition switch or wiring. Good Hunting!

 

For lack of performance at low RPM's, check your spark plug extenders for pinholes. This can cause the condition you describe. To check, pull the spark plug wires off every spark plug and the extender will usually come out with the plug wire, if not pull those off the plugs and then check for any burn marks or discolorations. Sometimes the pinholes are easy to spot, they literally are burns straight through the plastic caused by electrical arcing from the plug wire to the block. These are cheap to replace, and you should carry a couple spares with you in the cars tool case.

For no-crank problem, check your fusebox very carefully as this is definitely a weak spot on the Mondial's. Specifically, check the wiring harnesses that plug onto the fuse block. Unplug them, and check for burn marks on the plastics on both the connector and the socket header (where the plug connects on the fuse block). You may have a burned connector, or loose pins.

It doesn't hurt to also pull every relay out and clean the pins with contact cleaner. Note any relays that look burned or discolored.

PS - A wild guess about your stalling --- You might have a problem with the clutch replacement you had done. You will need a better mechanical expert than I am to chime in on possibilities for this. I confine myself to mostly electrical issues...

Cheers,
KK

 

Would you be so kind and give your source for cheap spark plug extenders for the Mondial?

Kind regards,

Randall

 

You said you replaced the fuse box. Some believe it is a good idea to replace all the relays at the same time, they get old.

I don't know the conversations you have had with your mechanic but from your description it sounds like they are throwing parts at it without doing thorough diagnostic. That is if all the fixes you mention are to fix your drivability issues.

I agree with checking for vaccuum leaks and testing out the areas of your fuel injection. You are best to find someone who is familiar with these old bosch units.

How much do you drive this car? Has it had these problems from the time you purchased the car or are the problems recent, did they just start? If your car has always run like this, there is a chance that your car has many issues/deferred maintenance and your mechanic is just going through what should have been done in the past.

You don't want to run your car real hard until it is warmed up and what your car is doing is not at all normal. It should be smooth power right from idle. There is no turbo like boost of power in these engines typically, the boost you feel is probably the engine getting close to where it should be running.

Does anyone have any thoughts on timing? When was the last belt service? Sorry, I see your last belt service was in 06. By most standards it is due for belts. The Ferrari dealer may be the place to send it if your local place is grasping at straws. Don't be afraid to pay a couple hours for diagnostic, then the true issues can be fixed.

 

It has been a couple of years since I bought them. I recall them being around $16 from the dealer. It looks like time has doubled their price.

Check ricambiamerica for them.