Performing a Safe First Start

Safety Considerations

• Never perform the first start alone; have a second person monitor surroundings and assist in emergencies.
• Keep a fire extinguisher rated for fuel and electrical fires within arm’s reach.
• Ensure the workspace is clear of all flammable liquids, loose tools, and debris.
• Ensure the workspace has proper ventilation.
• Stop immediately if you detect strong fuel smells.

1. Preparation

• Sensor Verification: Ensure all sensors—MAP/MAF, CLT, IAT, TPS, and fuel pressure—are functional and correctly calibrated.
• Cranking Readiness: Confirm the engine cranks robustly with a consistent speed; address any starter or battery issues beforehand.
• Fuel System Check: Verify the fuel pump and pressure regulator are operational, and that there is sufficient fuel in the tank.
• Injector and Ignition Setup: Ensure injectors and ignition coils are correctly wired and configured to the appropriate ECU channels.
• Trigger Wheel Information: Obtain accurate details about your crank trigger wheel, including the number of teeth and TDC offset.

2. Initial Steps

• Disable Fuel and Ignition: In TunerStudio, disable fuel injection and ignition to safely test the crank sensor.
• Crank Sensor Verification: In TunerStudio, navigate to Diagnostics & High-Speed Logger → Tooth Logger. Use the high-speed logger to confirm that the crank sensor accurately reads the trigger wheel pattern.
• TDC Confirmation: Set the cranking advance angle to zero. (Later on, you will need to use a timing light while cranking to verify the TDC position).

3. Connect TunerStudio to Your ECU

• Bring Your Dashboard to Life: Connect your FOME ECU to TunerStudio. Once connected, the dashboard should display sensor inputs and output values like ignition timing and dwell.
• Verify Sensor Readings:
  • Coolant Temperature (CLT): Should match the ambient temperature initially.
  • Intake Air Temperature (IAT): Similar to CLT, depending on engine setup.
  • Battery Voltage (BV): Should read 12.5V or higher.
  • Manifold Air Pressure (MAP/MAF): For MAP-based setups, expect a reading near 100kPa at atmospheric pressure.
  • Throttle Position Sensor (TPS): Push the throttle pedal and confirm a response on the dashboard. ( Check ETB calibration section if you have Electronic Throttle Body ETB)
• Initial System Check:
  • Look for any erratic sensor values or error codes.
  • Ensure RPM displays "0" when the engine is not running.

4. Calibrate Throttle Pedal (TPS)

• In TunerStudio:
  • Navigate to Tools → Calibrate TPS.
  • Without touching the throttle, click Get Current for "Closed Throttle ADC Count."
  • Fully depress the throttle pedal and click Get Current for "Full Throttle ADC Count."
  • Save (Burn) the calibration to the ECU.
• Verify the calibration by observing smooth TPS values as you operate the pedal.

5. Test Outputs (Fuel, Spark, and More)

• Fuel Pump Test:
  • If your fuel pump is ECU-controlled, go to Controller → Bench Test & Commands in TunerStudio.
  • Test the "Fuel Pump" output; you should hear the pump running.
• Ignition Spark Test:
  • Only perform a spark test if necessary since it is dangerous!
  • Test spark outputs, starting with primary cylinders (e.g., Spark #1 and Spark #3 for a 4-cylinder engine).
  • To visually confirm, connect a spark plug to the ignition coil, ground it, and observe the spark while testing. Handle with care—HIGH VOLTAGE don’t harm yourself.
• Injector Test:
  • Test injectors using the same menu. For sequential systems, test all injectors individually (e.g., Injector #1, Injector #2, etc.).
  • Listen for a distinct clicking sound during testing.
• Other Outputs:
  • Test auxiliary outputs like the Check Engine Light, cooling fan, and AC-related controls if applicable.
• Safety Reminder:
  • Keep a fire extinguisher nearby during output testing.
  • Ensure the engine bay is free from flammable materials.

6. Cranking and First Start

1. Reset the ECU:
   1. Turn off the ignition and disconnect the USB cable to ensure a clean state.
   2. Reconnect the USB cable and turn on the ignition. Wait for TunerStudio to establish a connection.
   3. Make sure Fuel and Ignition are enabled in TunerStudio,
2. Monitor During Cranking:
   1. Start cranking the engine and observe RPM on the dashboard.
   2. Typical cranking RPM is between 150–400 RPM.
3. Initial Firing:
   1. If RPMs are registering but the engine isn’t catching, continue cranking.
   2. It may take several seconds for the ECU to synchronize with the VPS and determine crankshaft position.
4. Adjust During Startup:
   1. If the engine sputters, adjust throttle input slightly to help it catch.
   2. Monitor RPM and listen to any abnormal noise closely.
   3. STOP immediately if you detect any of the below:
      1. Strong fuel smells
      2. Rapid temperature rises
   4. Unusual engine noises
5. Post-Start Adjustments:
   1. Once the engine starts, stabilize idle by monitoring coolant temperature, Intake Air temperature and RPM.
   2. Allow the engine to warm up for few seconds while observing for leaks or abnormal behavior.

Final Notes

• If the engine does not start after several attempts, revisit your sensor calibration and outputs in TunerStudio.
• Engage with the FOME community forums for troubleshooting support.
• CONGRATULATIONS