1997 Dodge Intrepid won't start

1997 DODGE INTREPID
150,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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R6RAINZ9
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I am a single mom on a very tight budget, and was given a 1997 Dodge Intrepid. The guy who gave it to me said he drove it to work one day and when he got off work, it wouldn't start and that it had previously overheated. He "says" someone "told" him that the water pump 'froze up' and that it would cost him $800.00 to fix it...
I personally don't have that kind of money, but thought maybe, it wasn't something SO costly. My son 'tinkers' with cars, so he is going to attempt to fix it for me so I can have a car again... I REALLY need this car, and it's the day before Christmas. This would be a wonderful Christmas present for me in these difficult times.... Can anyone give me suggestions to get this car running at an inexpensive cost... Such as, the first steps to take to find out why it won't start and why someone told him it's a 'frozen' water pump and will cost $800.00... Thanks a million![img:b6fa2c45c5]http://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/134169_Cristy20_1.jpg[/img:b6fa2c45c5]
Dec 24, 2007 at 8:56 AM
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RASMATAZ
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From: r6rainz9
To: rasmataz
Posted: Mon Dec 24, 2007 10:12 am
Subject: help please
i have a post for a 1997 intrepid won't start... can you PLEASE help me... I need this car to run...
Please!
merry christmas..


Okay I understand-have your son check below

1. Check the engine oil and inspect it for milky color and the level on it if its high above the full mark and its color is milky-could mean a blown headgasket and crack head/block-

2. Manually turn the crankshaft pulley if unable to turn it, use the starter to crank engine over make sure the battery is good won't turn over could be locked-up remove all the sparkplugs and inspect the cylinders for coolant do this then comeback
Dec 24, 2007 at 11:17 AM
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SERVICE WRITER
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Can pull off the belt and try to turn the water pump by hand.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/30961_wp_1.jpg

To verify the pump is frozen.
Dec 24, 2007 at 11:34 AM
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OLDTECH2
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r6rainz9,

Which engine is in that Intrepid? Mine has the 3.5 in it, and the pump is driven by the timing belt. If that pump locks up, the timing belt goes away and the engine doesn;t run.

I'd say have your son check the oil etc as the previous responder indicated. That will give you a pretty good indication of what's going on.
Dec 24, 2007 at 4:36 PM
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.