A while back I picked up an 87 vette that someone had attempted to convert to carb. I finished the last details needed to get the car running but after a while I decided I wanted to convert it back to TPI.

I picked up a TPI set up and luckily enough the previous owner had left the wiring on the vette. Tonight I made my first attempt to start the car and unfortunately the car would not start.

Here is what I have done so far.
1. Verified spark was good. Check
2. Verified ground straps are connected. Check
3. Tested motor would temporarily start with starter fluid. Check
4. Jumped diagnostic plug with paper clip but it just kept flashing code 12
5. Verified all fuses good in the fuse panel located inside the car. Check

This is my first TPI setup so I am in unfamiliar territory. I have a Chilton manual and an ohm meter along with various other tools.

I really need some direction from the TPI experts. I know this is not a corvette forum but there seems to be a lot more technical knowledge on this site. Most of the guys on the vette forums seem to be more inclide to take their cars to a mechanic rather than fix the problems themselves.

I also believe the car has VATS.

I realize there is a wealth of knowledge on the net but because there is so much I would have to read hours to find the specific information needed.

Thanksin advance for any help.

 

Did you check your fuel pressure at the rail? What's the pressure reading?

 

I did not check the fuel pressure but did crack the line fittings to verify that there was fuel pressure. The motor won't make any attempt to try and start. That is what led me to spray some starter fluid in the TB and it busted off immediately for a second or two. I can also hear the fuel pump humming.

 

If engine cranks then generally not a VATS related problem although VATS has a part that cuts off fuel as well as starter
.
Check TPS voltage ; if too high while cranking will cut off fuel

 

I was about to check the TPS voltage and realized that the plug for the IAC motor was note plugged in correctly. The locking tabs have been broken off. It is now plugged in correctly.

After discovering this and fixing it, the motor now tries to start for a few seconds but will not stay running.

I checked to see if any codes came up but it still keeps flashing code 12.

I have also realized that there is no knock sensor on the block. I found the plug for it. Does this have to be present for the car to start?

I have discovered to that the EGR solenoid, Air diverter valve and air select valve are also missing. Do I need these to get the vehicle to start?

I attempted to check the TPS and realized that plug was fault so I remover the cover and have plugged in the terminals directly into the TPS. I hope to check that tonight.