98 328is e36 running rich and having a hard time starting.

[bhandrews]

So, my 98 328is is running rich, taking like 5 seconds to start after sitting for a little bit, and showing codes p0170, p0173, p1188, and p1189…

i just replaced my cracked cylinder head, head gasket, fuel injectors, and spark plugs. my ccv hoses have no cracks, looks pretty good.

but, what i did find is that my dipstick tube was not seated all the way. could that be causing the codes? or could it be something else like a timing issue? once it starts, it runs very smoothly, idles great and drives smooth so i don’t really think that the timing is off but i could be wrong.

im planning on fixing the dipstick tube thing this weekend. i also haven’t replaced my o2 sensors yet.

[328 Power 04]

Those codes are not for running rich.

It's more than likely you have a huge vacuum leak. Perform a pressurized smoke test of the intake tract and seal it up until there are no more leaks.

[bmwdirtracer]

+1 to the smoke test. Yes, absolutely, the dipstick tube is part of the intake air system. But really, searching for leaks by eye and exploration is generally counterproductive -- you need a smoke test using a smoke machine.

[bhandrews]

Thanks a lot man. i appreciate the advice.