Car not starting after Throttle body and Intake Cleaning

Tiny
MICHAELANGELO24
  • MEMBER
  • 1995 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE
  • 164,000 MILES
Hello

I recently cleaned out my throttle body and intake along with the IAC sensor to fix a rough idle and stalling. After plugging everything back in, the car will not start. It cranks over, takes in fuel and there is a spark but no start up. It started up before I cleaned everything however. What can I do to fix the problem?
Thanks in advance, Mike
Saturday, November 5th, 2011 AT 9:16 PM

8 Replies

Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
If your 1995 Mitsubishi Eclipse is not starting after cleaning the throttle body and intake, there are a few possible causes to consider. Here are some steps you can take to help diagnose and fix the problem:

Double-check your work: Ensure that all the electrical connections, vacuum lines, and hoses are properly reconnected after cleaning the throttle body and intake. It's possible that something may have been inadvertently left disconnected or not properly secured.

Check for air intake leaks: Make sure that there are no air intake leaks in the area where you performed the cleaning. Any unaccounted-for air entering the intake system can affect the air-fuel mixture and cause starting issues. Inspect the intake manifold gasket, throttle body gasket, and any other connections for signs of leaks or damage.

Test the fuel pressure: Use a fuel pressure gauge to check the fuel pressure at the fuel rail. Low fuel pressure can prevent the engine from starting properly. Ensure that the fuel pump is functioning correctly and that there are no clogs or restrictions in the fuel lines.

Check the IAC sensor: The idle air control (IAC) sensor is responsible for controlling the idle speed of the engine. If it was removed or disturbed during the cleaning process, it's possible that it may need to be repositioned or recalibrated. Make sure it is securely attached and functioning properly.

Verify spark timing: Although you mentioned that there is a spark, it's worth checking the spark timing to ensure it is occurring at the correct moment. Use a timing light to check the spark timing and make any necessary adjustments.

Consider a throttle body adaptation procedure: Some vehicles may require a throttle body adaptation or idle relearn procedure after cleaning. Check the vehicle's service manual or consult a Mitsubishi dealership for any specific adaptation steps needed for your Eclipse model.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Saturday, November 5th, 2011 AT 9:25 PM
Tiny
KHLOW2008
  • MECHANIC
  • 41,815 POSTS
If you cleaned the throttle body by spraying cleaner into the barrel on vehicle, the engine is flooded and would require some additional cranking to get it started.

Try with throttle fully opened for a few seconds.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
+1
Sunday, November 6th, 2011 AT 4:11 AM
Tiny
MICHAELANGELO24
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
How much cranking would I need to do? I continuously cranked it for about 10 seconds
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, November 6th, 2011 AT 6:19 PM
Tiny
MICHAELANGELO24
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
When you say "throttle fully opened" should I press down on the gas pedal to open up throttle plate?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, November 6th, 2011 AT 6:21 PM
Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
The valve and ignition timing could be off-also what is the fuel pressure-you probably touch something you shouldn't have backtrack everything that you've touched-
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, November 6th, 2011 AT 6:30 PM
Tiny
MICHAELANGELO24
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
How can I check the valve and ignition timing?
The fuel pressure seems fine after an inspection, I smell A lot of fuel in the hood after cranking the engine trying to start it.

I just disconnected three plugs and covered them with a towel so that any cleaner will not get into them.
I also removed and clean the idle sensor pulley thats connected to the throttle body itself.
Replaced the gasket between the gasket and the intake as well.
Plugged back all three plugs/sensors.

Ill try adding starter fluid into my cold air intake and see if the car will start from there.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, November 6th, 2011 AT 7:08 PM
Tiny
MICHAELANGELO24
  • MEMBER
  • 5 POSTS
I tried putting it into CLEAR FLOOD MODE but after a few minutes still no luck. So I removed the fuel pump fuse to help the engine clear out and that worked! I guess I sprayed too much clearing into the engine. Thanks for the help
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, November 6th, 2011 AT 8:07 PM
Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
Thanks for letting us know, we are here to help, please use 2CarPros anytime.
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Sunday, November 6th, 2011 AT 9:18 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Sponsored links