<E30> Thermo-Time Switch

[Thaddeus Wakefield Batt <thaddeus@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hey Folks,
     After replacing a faulty cold-start valve and performing Bentley and
Hayes testing procedures, I have deduced that as well as having a bum
cold-start valve, I've got electrical problems.  

     Grounding is supposed to occur through a black/red wire on both the
thermo-time switch and the cold-start valve.  Problem is it doesn't.
Bentley says this means faulty thermo-time switch - not grounding through
the thermo time switch housing.  However, I am able to actuate the valve
by splicing into the blck/red wire with a lead directly to ground.

The question is, should I?  Does the time switch cut the circut
through + or through - ? Would this (admitedly cheap) approach allow
the cold start valve to function as designed, or would this simply actuate
the cold start valve for as long as the ignition is actuating the starter
regardless of the coolant temp?  And, if it did do that, would
that be bad?

And finally, could the lack of Earth have led to the detruction of 
the old cold start valve?  (ie, should I disconnect the plug from
the new valve until I  a.Get it Grounded or b.Replace the thermo
time switch?)  

TIA,
- --thad

Thaddeus Wakefield Batt
Internet Software Engineer (Electrical Engineer ... Not Even Close)
thaddeus@domain.elided
BMWCCA Boston:	#1147928
1986 325es
1975 2002A for sale!

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