Engine cranks but does not start?

JIM.RAMAGE57

MEMBER
1989 MAZDA B2600
2.7L
4 CYL
4WD
MANUAL
160,000 MILES

Just picked it up from someone. They said it was running rough when parked but running. Cleaned the plugs, rotor and distributor. They looked fine though. The fuel pump is new even though it is after market. The plugs seem to be getting spark but after trying to start seems like no gas getting to them, they are dry, tried starting fluid just a little to see if it would fire? And did not work? Any ideas?

2 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,320 POSTS

Hi,

You are ahead of the game. LOL If you have spark and there is no change with starting fluid, we either have a compression issue or a timing issue.

When you checked the spark, did you notice if it is a hot blue snapping spark? Also, when you tried starting fluid, was there any change at all?

If the spark is good and there is no change with starting fluid, the next thing to check is engine compression.

Here is a link that explains how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

If you don't have a compression gauge, most parts stores will lend one to you for testing.

Try this and let me know as much as you can. Also, retry the starting fluid. When you said, "just a little", it evaporates very quickly, so you may not have used enough. Don't go crazy with it. Just follow the directions on the can.

Note that since the plugs are dry, I am suspecting the problem is fuel-related and not compression/timing. If it was timing, compression, or ignition spark, the plugs would be wet with unburned fuel. Let me know if that makes sense. LOL

Take care and I'll watch for your reply.

Joe