Running a modern diesel engine without an ECU

[IRLGW]

I have recently acquired a Renault K9K 1.5dci. it's an early generation mode without common rail, but loaded with crankshaft, camshaft and a few other sensors, egr etc. I'm wondering if there is an inexpensive way to get it running without the original loom? I did a quick search for an simple aftermarket ECU but they are quite pricey for up-cycling old engines.

I did briefly consider some sort of a distributor type contraption on the bottom pulley to pulse the injectors but that's as far as I have got. Has anyone successfully done similar in getting an efi engine to run without a complete harness

 

[frank rabbets]

There are specialist firms whom recon' ecu's if that could be possibility. Post it off for a quote I believe.

 

[Iwan]

If the existing diesel pump is not high pressure and has 4 outlets for each injector like an efi. Then you could find a vintage pump that has the same mountings as the engine, then that's possible.

But the modern electrics are so inter twined that you could encounter immobiliser issues etc. Then the problem is passed onto another issue.. Then it can become a waste of time... in my experience.

 

[karl2000]

Sounds like a bloody nightmare. There's loads of K9K ECU's on flea bay, are they really that expensive or hard to find?

 

[Shayne]

If you can find a marine version of the same engine it might give you some clues

 

[Grimbo]

I have recently acquired a Renault K9K 1.5dci. it's an early generation mode without common rail, but loaded with crankshaft, camshaft and a few other sensors, egr etc. I'm wondering if there is an inexpensive way to get it running without the original loom? I did a quick search for an simple aftermarket ECU but they are quite pricey for up-cycling old engines.

I did briefly consider some sort of a distributor type contraption on the bottom pulley to pulse the injectors but that's as far as I have got. Has anyone successfully done similar in getting an efi engine to run without a complete harness

If it's not common rail then it will probably have mechanical injectors.... if so then find the mechanical pump from the previous generation , supply 12v to the stop solenoid and if timed correctly it should run...

Crankshaft sensor may be used for an engine rpm reading ......

We had a range of engines that were for a while available in both mech injection and common rail variants ..... they shared the same block and a few castings but the heads were very different ...

What about going to a breakers and getting the right engine loom and ecu from a scrap car ?

 

[IRLGW]

Thanks guys.

I was thinking of using it for a marine application..as Karl says plenty on eBay so when you have such a light, low cost engine there has to be potential. This one has a direct injection pump which is the older type, however I'm not sure if it is electronically timed. If I can sync the pump reasonably well, then it should make a bit of smoke and noise... Must pull it out tomorrow and see what it all looks like..