1998 Oldsmobile Silhouette won't start - could be engine EL

Tiny
FIXER55555
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 OLDSMOBILE SILHOUETTE
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 123,200 MILES
First the obvious - as above - the problem is it won't start. I bought a jumper kit from an auto supply store, and hooked it up after I realized my batter was low or dead.

Without the jumper kit connected, I hear a click, but no rolling (or cranking, I think it's called).

With the jumper kit connected, I hear proper cranking. I think I can be pretty sure that the battery needs to be charged / replaced. However, I can tell the starter motor is cranking just fine when enough electricity is present.

As far as fuel delivery, I'm pretty sure I can hear the fuel pump motor spinning for a few seconds when I cup my hand around my ear and listen by the middle of the back seats in the van (fuel tank is right under where I'm listening, and pump is inside the tank from what I've read). This occurs when I turn the key to the position just before ignition.

I have searched several online forums and q&a, and have found that it could be the "engine electrical" or "engine computer." Is there any sort of quick fix or at least a test that would let me know if it is this before I take it to a repair shop?
Saturday, November 28th, 2009 AT 4:27 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
Do below before you take it in

Get a helper disconnect a sparkplug wire or 2 and ground it to the engine -have helper crank engine over-do you have a snapping blue spark? If so-you have a fuel related problem, check the fuel pressure to rule out the fuel filter/fuel pump/pressure regulator and listen to the injector/s are they pulsing or hook up a noid light. No snapping blue spark continue to troubleshoot the ignition system-power input to the coil/coil packs, coil's resistances, distributor pick-up coil, ignition control module, cam and crank sensors and computer Note: If it doesn't apply disregard it
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Saturday, November 28th, 2009 AT 5:26 PM

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