1999 Dodge Caravan

1999 DODGE CARAVAN
150,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
KSHARIB
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
This morning I got up and started my van went in the house came back out and there was smoke coming from under the hood, smelled like rubber and wire burning, like and electrical fire, the van shut itself off, and I jacked the van up and I am seeing one cylinder shaped component, mounted to the front of the engine block with wired attached to it that is smoking hot. Seems to be were the smoke/fire originated. Now the van will not power on. Can you help
Jan 24, 2009 at 9:25 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
MERLIN2021
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 17,250 POSTS
Can you take a picture? Sounds like maybe the alternator had a fire?
Jan 24, 2009 at 9:30 AM
Avatar
KSHARIB
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I have a Haynes repair manual and it is not the alternator, it seems to be the starter, but what would cause it to catch fire? And would that knock out the electricity.
Jan 24, 2009 at 9:40 AM
Avatar
MERLIN2021
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 17,250 POSTS
Any electrical part can develop a short, and yes it can cause electrical problems elsewhere. There could be fusile links in the wires to the starter, and if they fry, you loose power!
Jan 29, 2009 at 12:08 PM
Avatar
KSHARIB
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you, it ended up being the starter and my husband was able to replace it for me the same day!!
Jan 29, 2009 at 12:33 PM
Avatar
MERLIN2021
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 17,250 POSTS
Very good....
Jan 31, 2009 at 6:12 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.