Contents Section: Testing & Diagnostics All sections

Dme System Porsche 911 Turbo 930

Testing & Diagnostics 3 illustrations ~3255 words

DESCRIPTION

The 911 Carrera model is equipped with the Bosch Digital Motor Electronic (DME) engine control system. The DME system uses various data sensors to monitor intake air volume, engine speed, crankshaft position, coolant temperature, intake air temperature, and throttle position switch. Signals from these sensors, as well as a start signal and oxygen sensor signal, are sent to the control unit.

The Control Unit (CU) is a microcomputer. It is the "brain" of the DME system. Using information obtained from data sensors, the CU determines the correct amount of fuel and optimum ignition timing.

Scheme 1: Schematic of 911 Carrera DME Engine Control System The DME system consists of 4 sub-systems.

OPERATION

The DME system consists of 4 sub-systems: Fuel Control, Data Sensors, Control Unit and Spark Timing.

FUEL CONTROL

The 911 Carrera series (except 911 Turbo) is equipped with the Bosch Airflow Controlled (AFC) fuel injection system. The DME unit has a cycled voltage signal which is sent to the air regulating valve. The CU generates control signals for the fuel pump relay, auxiliary air valve and the cylinder port injectors. These devices control cold idle, curb idle speed and mixture, air/fuel ratio and fuel supply. Additional fuel required for cold starting is supplied by the fuel injectors.

The AFC system is electronically controlled by the CU, which is programmed to regulate fuel injection based upon information received from various data sensors. It also compares the specific data (stored in computer memory) for the engine. The airflow sensor has a stepped control curve for the air sensor position, instead of a linear control curve, which is adapted to the DME control unit.

The 911 Carrera models also use an idle speed control system. This system consists of an air regulating valve which opens an air by-pass around the throttle. When necessary, the CU operates the air regulating valve to stabilize the idle speed.

SPARK CONTROL

Spark control allows the CU to determine the exact instant that ignition is required, based upon information received from data sensors.

At the optimum time, the CU breaks the primary circuit of the ignition coil, producing a high voltage at coil center tower. This voltage surge fires the spark plug at the proper time for most efficient combustion, eliminating the need for vacuum and/or centrifugal advance.

DATA SENSORS

Each sensor furnishes electronic impulses to the CU. Using this information, the CU computes spark timing, and correct amount of fuel necessary to maintain proper engine operation.

The function of each sensor is closely related in maintaining proper engine operation. Operation of each sensor is as follows

Oxygen Sensor

This sensor is mounted in engine exhaust stream, in front of catalytic converter. It supplies a low voltage (under .5 volt) when fuel mixture is lean (too much oxygen) and a higher voltage (up to one volt) when fuel mixture is rich (not enough oxygen).

The oxygen sensor must be hot to function properly, and to allow CU to accept its electrical signals. The oxygen sensor measures quantity of oxygen only.

All Calif. models are equipped with a special electrically heated oxygen sensor. This oxygen sensor reaches operating temperature sooner and also begins to function earlier. The heated oxygen sensor has 3 wires, 2 for the heater element (power and ground), and a single wire for the oxygen sensor signal.

The heating begins with ignition on (via fuel pump and DME relay terminal No. 87). The plugs from the sensor to the wiring harness are located near the flywheel sensor plugs (speed and reference mark).

All Calif. 911 Carrera models also mount a bridge between CU connector terminal No. 10 and ground. This bridge modifies the oxygen sensor control setting.

Note. No attempt should be made to measure oxygen sensor voltage output. Current drain of conventional voltmeter may permanently damage sensor, shift sensor calibration range and/or render sensor unusable. DO NOT connect jumper wire, test leads or other electrical connectors to sensor. Use these devices only on CU side of harness after disconnecting sensor.

Reference Mark Sensor

The reference mark sensor is located on crankcase flange. This sensor detects crankshaft position in relation to TDC, and sends this signal to the CU. It is triggered by a bolt cemented into the flywheel.

Speed Sensor

The speed sensor is mounted on an adjustable bracket with the reference mark sensor. The speed sensor measures engine speed by counting the teeth on the starter ring gear. The speed sensor sends 2 voltage pulses to the control unit for each tooth that passes.

Temperature Sensor II

This sensor is located in cylinder head No. 3. This sensor supplies engine temperature information to the CU. This information affects the air/fuel ratio (as engine temperature varies with time during a cold start) and spark timing.

Intake Air Temperature Sensor I

This sensor is located in the air stream of the airflow meter, and supplies incoming air temperature information to the CU. The CU uses this along with other information in regulating the fuel injection rate.

Airflow Sensor

This sensor is located in the air stream of the airflow meter, and supplies air volume information to the CU. The CU uses this and other information in regulating the fuel injection rate.

The airflow meter incorporates an airflow measuring plate. The airflow plate opens when the engine draws in air. The plate is connected to a potentiometer. The potentiometer transmits an electrical signal determined by position of the measuring flap, to inform the CU of engine load.

The potentiometer within the airflow meter prevents loss of engine power during sudden acceleration or deceleration by signaling the CU of necessary fuel enrichment requirements.

Throttle Switch

A contact-type throttle switch is located on the throttle body. The 911 Carrera has one contact for wide open throttle position.

Idle Contact

The 911 Carrera uses a microswitch to sense closed throttle position. It is mounted on the throttle housing opposite the throttle switch. The idle contact signals the CU to control idle stabilization and coasting fuel cut-off.

High Altitude Switch

Switch is mounted under the driver's seat. The high altitude switch closes over 3300 ft. (1000 m), signaling the CU to lean out the fuel mixture.

Idle Speed Stabilization

The 911 Carrera uses an air regulating valve to provide both auxiliary air valve operation and idle speed stabilization. It is located near the throttle body. The air regulating valve is controlled by the CU. When necessary, the air regulating valve will adjust the air by-pass opening to maintain both cold and warm engine idle speeds.

Fuel Pressure Regulator

The pressure regulator is located at the end of the injection collection line. Pressure regulator maintains constant fuel pressure to the fuel injectors.

Pressure Damper

The pressure damper is located at the end of right fuel collector. The damper absorbs the pressure oscillation caused by the injection cycle.

CONTROL UNIT (CU)

The CU monitors and controls all DME system functions. The CU consists of input/output devices, Central Processing Unit (CPU), power supply and memories. The CU is located under the driver's seat. A brief description and operation of each component is as follows

Input/Output Devices

These integral devices of CU convert electrical signals received by data sensors and switches to digital signals for use by CPU.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Digital signals received by CPU are used to perform all mathematical computations and logic functions necessary to deliver proper air/fuel mixture. The CPU also calculates spark timing information.

Power Supply

Main source of power for the CU is from the battery, through ignition circuit and main relay.

Memories

The memory bank of the CU is programmed with specific information, which is used by the CU during open loop (spark timing and fuel injection rate). This information is also used when a sensor or other component fails in the system, allowing the vehicle to be driven in for repairs.

SPEED SENSOR CLEARANCE

Note. Adjusting speed sensor automatically adjusts reference mark sensor. They cannot be adjusted separately.

  1. The speed sensor bracket is mounted on the crankcase flange with 2 bolts. To adjust clearance, loosen bolts and turn sensor holder. Clearance should be .030-034" (.75-.85 mm).
  2. To adjust clearance with engine installed in vehicle, remove speed sensor. Using a depth gauge, measure distance from sensor holder's upper surface to tooth head on starter ring gear.
  3. Measure length of speed sensor. Subtract speed sensor length from holder-to-flywheel tooth distance. Difference should be .030-.034" (.75-.85 mm).
  4. If not to specification, loosen screws and turn holder until holder-to-flywheel tooth distance is equal to the length of the sensor plus the specified clearance. Tighten screws, and install speed sensor in holder.

IDLE SPEED & MIXTURE

Idle stabilizer must be by-passed. See IDLE SPEED & MIXTURE in TUNE-UP article in the TUNE-UP section. Idle speed is adjusted by turning adjusting screw, located at by-pass port of throttle housing.

DIAGNOSIS & TESTING

CAUTIONDME ignition system voltage is extremely high. Contact with current-carrying parts while engine is running could prove fatal. Always turn ignition switch to "OFF" position or remove battery ground cable when connecting testers or replacing system components. High voltage is particularly present at spark plug, distributor, and ignition coil connections and at terminal No. 1 of the CU. DO NOT attempt to check ignition system by a sparking test of spark plugs. This may destroy ignition coil or CU.

Note. The DME system tests are limited. Complete testing of the DME system requires an oscilloscope, voltmeter, ohmmeter and special test leads to insert in multiple pin CU connector.

ELECTRICAL CONNECTIONS

  1. On 911 Carrera models, ensure all electrical connections are free of corrosion and securely attached. Check DME ground wires on cylinder No. 1 intake pipe and fuel filter mount. Check ground strap between body and transmission/engine.
  2. Check electrical plug connections in engine compartment on left side No. 14 pin plug on control plate, No. 6 pin plug for DME on left front cross member (below heater blower).
  3. Check plug connections at engine temperature sensor II, speed sensor, reference mark sensor, No. 3 pin on air regulating valve, No. 2 pin plug on idle microswitch, No. 3 pin on throttle switch, No. 5 pin plug on airflow sensor, No. 2 pin plugs on all fuel injectors, No. 35 pin for DME control unit (underneath front seat), No. 6 pin plug of DME relay and No. 2 pin plug of high altitude switch.

Note. CU connector is held in place by a catch. Push catch to the right and pull off plug with a downward motion.

CU POWER SUPPLY

  1. Disconnect CU connector. Connect positive voltmeter lead to terminal No. 35 of CU harness connector. Connect negative test lead to terminal No. 5 of CU harness connector. Turn ignition switch to "RUN" position. Voltmeter should read battery voltage.
  2. Connect voltmeter positive test lead to terminal No. 18 of CU harness connector. Connect negative test lead to terminal No. 5 of CU harness connector. Turn ignition on. Voltmeter should read battery voltage.
  3. If no voltage is available, remove DME power relay. Using a jumper wire, connect terminals No. 30 and 87. Repeat voltage checks in step 1) and 2).

IGNITION CIRCUIT POWER CHECK

Connect positive voltmeter lead to terminal No. 1 of CU harness connector. Connect negative lead to ground. Turn ignition on, but do not start engine. Voltmeter should register battery voltage. If not, check wiring back to battery.

SPEED SENSOR CHECK

Note. This is an alternate test when an oscilloscope is not available.

  1. Secure a Fresnel lens front LED from an electronics store or use Special Test Unit (171 919 061B ). Connect a 220 ohm-1/4 watt resistor in series with one of the LED terminals.
  2. Connect positive LED test lead to terminal No. 8 of CU harness connector. Connect negative LED test lead to terminal No. 27 of same connector. DO NOT start engine, but operate starter. LED will flicker dimly if speed sensor is sending a signal.

REFERENCE MARK SENSOR CHECK

Note. This is an alternate test when an oscilloscope is not available.

  1. Using same LED tester as used for speed sensor, connect positive lead to CU harness connector terminal No. 25 and negative lead to terminal No. 26.
  2. Operate starter, but do not start engine. If sensor is sending a signal, LED should flicker dimly.

Primary Resistance

  1. With ignition switch in the "OFF" position, disconnect wires from primary terminals of ignition coil to isolate it from the system. Set ohmmeter for x1 scale.
  2. Connect ohmmeter leads to 2 primary terminals. Reading should be .4-.6 ohm. If not, replace ignition coil.

Secondary Resistance

  1. With the ignition switch in the "OFF" position, remove wire from coil tower. Set ohmmeter at x1000 scale. Connect ohmmeter leads to ignition coil positive terminal and coil tower.
  2. Reading should be 5000-7200 ohms. If not within specifications, replace ignition coil.

IGNITION RESISTANCE CHECKS

Shielded resistance of spark plug connectors should be 3000 ohms. Shielded resistance of distributor rotor, and of all distributor cap connections should be 1000 ohms.

Pull back plug seal of airflow sensor plug (plug remains connected). Connect voltmeter on terminal No. 3 and ground through back of plug. Reading should be approximately 5 1/2 to 6 1/2 volts.

Voltage Drop on Sensor Plate Potentiometer

Remove air cleaner. Connect voltmeter on terminal No. 2 and ground. Reading should be approximately 260 mVolts. Press sensor plate to full load position with a non-metallic rod. Sensor plate must move easily, without hesitation. With sensor plate in full load, reading should be approximately 4.6 volts. Turn off ignition. Pull off plug and install plug seal.

Intake Air Temperature Sensor

Pull off airflow sensor plug. Connect an ohmmeter to terminals No. 1 and 4 of airflow sensor (on control unit terminal No. 6 and 22). Reading at 32°F (0°C)= 4.4 to 6.8 k/ohms. If temperature sensor has an open circuit, should be richer mixture. At 60 to 85°F (15 to 30°C) = 1.4 to 3.6 k/ohms, At 105°F (40°C) = 1.0 to 1.3 k/ohms. If temperature sensor with grounded circuit, should be leaner mixture. It is important that intake air temperature be 60-85°F (15-35°C) for CO level adjustments.

KNOCK/CHARGING PRESSURE CONTROL

The knock/charging pressure system includes a self-monitoring system, which can recognize a defect with the help of a test adapter. The defect is seen as a blink code, similar to morse code.

If a defect has been found, the engine will operate on a safety system (basic turbo boast pressure up to about 4 psi over pressure and 6° later on timing. A defect stored in memory is erased when ignition is switched off. For this reason, the defect must read out directly after a test drive without switching off the ignition.

AIR TEMPERATURE SENSOR I

Disconnect airflow sensor plug. Connect ohmmeter to airflow sensor terminals No. 6 and 22. Compare ohmmeter readings to specifications chart.

TemperatureOhms +/- 10%
32°F (0°C)5000-6200
68°F (20°C)2200-2800
86°F (30°C)150-1900

AIR TEMPERATURE SENSOR I SPECIFICATIONS

FUEL PRESSURE

  1. Locate fuel pipe cap nut on left side. Remove cap being careful that sealing ball does not fall out. Connect a Test Pressure Gauge (P 378 ).
  2. Start engine and maintain idle speed. Pressure gauge should show 29.4 psi (2.06 kg/cm 2 ). Disconnect vacuum line at pressure regulator. Pressure gauge should show 33.8-39.7 psi (2.37-2.78 kg/cm 2 ).
  3. Pinch fuel return line of pressure regulator. Pressure gauge should show a minimum of 59.0 psi (4.13 kg/cm 2 ). If fuel pump does not meet specifications, check fuel filter or replace fuel pump and retest.
  4. If engine will not start, check fuse No. 2. If okay, remove DME relay and bridge terminals No. 30 and 87b. Pressure gauge should show 33.8-39.7 psi (2.37-2.78 kg/cm 2 ).

Remove CU connector plug. Connect a ohmmeter between terminal No. 13 and ground. Compare ohmmeter readings to specifications.

TemperatureOhms +/- 10%
50°F (10°C)3300-4100
68°F (20°C)2200-2800
104°F (40°C)1000-1300
176°F (80°C)290-350
212°F (100°C)160-210

TEMPERATURE SENSOR II SPECIFICATIONS

AIR REGULATING VALVE

  1. Screw in throttle by-pass screw completely when engine is running at steady idle speed. After brief deviation the idle speed must return to 800 RPM.
  2. Pull off electrical connector on air regulating valve. Connect center connection of valve with 12-volt supply. Connect an outer connection with ground. Valve must turn against stop. Exchange outer connections. Valve must turn to other stop.
  3. Connect a new air regulating valve on the wire plug to check activation of the valve from the control unit. The air regulating valve must vibrate noticeably (frequency activation) with engine running.
  4. If engine speed is boosted with the by-pass screw, the air regulating valve must move in closing direction. The air regulating valve must turn in opening direction when speed drops.

911 Carrera Idle Stabilizer Test Plug. Scheme 5

Scheme 5: 911 Carrera Idle Stabilizer Test Plug
  1. Locate the high altitude switch under driver's seat. Disconnect the altitude switch plug. Connect an ohmmeter to switch terminals. The altitude switch should be open under 3300 ft. (1000 m).
  2. Warm engine to operating temperature. Disconnect the oxygen sensor. Disconnect the high altitude switch. Remove vacuum hose from the fuel pressure regulator and plug.
  3. Connect an exhaust gas analyzer to the exhaust pipe. Operate engine at 2000 RPM and note CO% level.
  4. Bridge the high altitude switch harness terminals. At 2000 RPM, CO% level should be leaner. If not, check high altitude connectors. Ensure continuity of one wire to ground. The other wire should have continuity to CU terminal No. 28.

Idle (Coasting Fuel Shutoff)

  1. An accelerator linkage arm on the throttle operates idle microswitch. This accelerator linkage arm is connected with drag arm of the throttle shaft.
  2. A distinctive switching click will be heard when there is a play of approximately .039" (1 mm) travel between the accelerator linkage arm and drag arm. The throttle is open after overcoming this play.

Checking Idle Switch Function

Operate accelerator linkage carefully approximately .039" (1 mm). The microswitch should open without the throttle opening and there must be a definite increase in idle speed. Speed should increase 500 RPM. Ignition timing advance should be 12° BTDC. If nothing happens, check microswitch and its adjustment.

Checking Activation of Control Unit

  1. With engine at idle speed, pull off plug on idle switch. Engine speed must increase considerably. Engine speed should increase 500 RPM. Ignition timing advance should be 12° BTDC.
  2. If nothing happens, check wire between idle switch plug and control unit plug for breaks according to wiring diagram. If necessary, replace control unit.

Checking Coasting Fuel Shutoff

  1. With engine at speed, bridge disconnected plug of idle switch with a jumper wire. Accelerate engine to approximately 1300 RPM. Engine should begin to surge (this is coasting fuel shutoff).
  2. If engine does not surge, check wire between idle switch plug and control unit plug for breaks according to wiring diagram. If necessary, replace control unit.

Full Load Enrichment

  1. With engine at idle speed, pull off plug on idle switch. Engine RPM should go up to 1300 RPM and ignition timing should be 12° BTDC. Pull off plug on throttle switch (full load contact).
  2. Bridge connections on plug with a jumper wire. Engine speed should drop by approximately 100 to 200 RPM and ignition timing will be retarded approximately 4 to 8°. If nothing happens, check wire between throttle switch plug and control unit plug for breaks according to wiring diagram.
  1. Connect an exhaust gas analyzer to test point. Warm engine to operating temperature. Disconnect oxygen sensor wire. Note CO% level.
  2. Disconnect and plug the vacuum hose from the fuel pressure regulator. The CO% level should increase. Reconnect the oxygen sensor wire. The CO level should decrease to 0.6-1.0%). If not, test the DME control.

DME CONTROL

  1. Reconnect the fuel pressure regulator vacuum hose. Disconnect the oxygen sensor. Connect the oxygen sensor harness connector terminal to ground.
  2. Check if the CO% level increases. If not, check wire from CU connector terminal No. 24 to oxygen sensor plug. If no problem is found, replace the oxygen sensor.

OXYGEN SENSOR CONTROL

  1. Oxygen sensor must be connected. Connect an analog dwell meter or voltmeter to idle stabilizer test pins A and C. (Scheme 5)
  2. Start the engine. The display panel of test meter must jump between 0-100% dwell or 0-12 volts. If the display does not change in 6 seconds, check for problem in oxygen sensor circuits.

Wiring Diagrams for Porsche 911 Carrera. Scheme 6

Scheme 6: Wiring Diagrams for Porsche 911 Carrera

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