1997 bmw 528i cranks no start

Question

I have had a no start issue for 6 months. Will crank and crank and then sometimes will start and run fine. Shut off and no start again.
Not a fuel issue have new pump, filter and pressure regulator. New cam position sensor, new spark plugs replaced crank sensor Check and tested all relays and wiring. checked and ohmed all fuses. New battery, new Starter
Today I tried to start and it just cranked and cranked. I unplugged the crank sensor and it started right up. I was told they won't start with crank sensor unplugged?
Has anyone experienced this no start issue and the starting with the sensor unplugged?
Thanks in advance Will be grateful for any suggestions.

Answer 1

You have the Recall design . Depending on the production date , What happen was BMW installed  new CKP sensor and its harness was installed into the intake camshaft control solenoid wiring harness. what was included in the redesign was a wiring harness for the new CKP which would operate of a 12 volts instead of the 5 volts. one of the old design is suppose to be disconnected which is the one below the starter motor.  The problem you are having for the no start is with the CKP. use this TSB # 121099 to help solve the CKP problem with the no start.