Cannot get car running after replacing the head gasket

Tiny
RMBENNETT
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
  • 2.0L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
My girlfriend recently had a leak in her head gasket, not enough to prevent the car from running, but it was losing coolant constantly and slowly losing oil. Got through changing out the gasket and reassembling the car but I can no longer get it to to turn over. At first I thought it might be off slightly from the correct timing, but I have reset the belt and the marks are all spot on. Any ideas on where I can start checking to figure out what this problem is? I have attached the marking alignments and a video of what it does when I try to start it.
Tuesday, November 20th, 2018 AT 8:04 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,328 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

Based on just how it sounds when cranking, I think you got the timing correct. Have you checked for spark and fuel to the engine?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Also, make sure the cam sensor was not damaged, is plugged in, and no damaged was done to the pins in it. See attached picture for location. Also, see if it will start for a couple seconds using starting fluid.

Let me know.

Joe
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Wednesday, November 21st, 2018 AT 3:52 PM
Tiny
RMBENNETT
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Thanks Joe for reaching out to help. Turns out I was so fixated on the timing (a job that has always intimidated me) that I neglected to realize that I had swapped the intake and out flow to the fuel rail so the engine was not getting any gas. I appreciate you responding and trying to help out. It is now up and running so far without incident, hoping that continues.
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Wednesday, November 21st, 2018 AT 6:44 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,328 POSTS
Hi again, and happy to help. That sounds like a simple mistake. Regardless, I am glad it is running again. Feel free to ask questions in future if you need anything.

Take care and Happy Thanksgiving.

Joe
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Wednesday, November 21st, 2018 AT 8:50 PM

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