Hard Cranking Problem

[choochbamboozle]

After a little research, my sensor bracket does not have the later aluminum sleeve. I'll try one of these and re-gap the sensors and see what happens...more to come.

[icb]

I believe the different bracket accommodates the extra width of the shielding tube. It's only used on the reference sensor (the one closest to the engine block). I guess that's the one that picks up the EMI from the starter while you're trying to start the engine.
If you watch this Edredas video you can see some pretty good views of the bracket with the shielding tube in it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Mbghej ... 9ycw%3D%3D

[Tom]

When I've had speed/ref sensor shielding issues, it's always been in the form of kick-backs while cranking. The engine would crank at regular speed, but would stop and kick back when the DME interpreted random noise as a flywheel trigger. I've never seen poor shielding cause the engine to crank slowly in general. That said, I don't have a better explanation/theory for what you are reporting....

[choochbamboozle]

I'm going to work through the long list of possible solution. I'll provide updates as I move forward. Very much appreciate all of your suggestions. Thanks

[choochbamboozle]

I replaced the reference/speed sensor bracket with the sleeved updated version, and this has solved my hard cranking problem. It is a relief to hear the engine turn over easily 100% of the time. I really appreciate all of your suggestions. Thank you!

[icb]

Great news! Thanks for updating the thread!