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300AZ

MEMBER
1999 CHRYSLER 300
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
188,000 MILES

I have a 1999 Chrysler 300m that is not running.
one day I was driving, making a turn probably doing like 10 mph. As I turned the car turned off with no shakes or noises. I didn't run out of gas or anything. It wont start again. Its not dead because the electrical system is on. As I try to turn on the car the engine cranks but it doesn't start. I took it to the shop and was told it was something electrical. Called the electric mechanic and said it was the time belt. And the valves were damaged. That I have to replace that. Rebuilding the engine I guess. Need advice, do you think it could be something else. Cant really afford to rebuild it.

3 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,742 POSTS

That is indeed an "interference" engine meaning the pistons and open valves occupy the same space but not at the same time, at least unless the timing belt breaks. While it can break at any time, it's not real common for it to break at such a low speed. That might have saved some of the valves. As long as the front of the engine has to be disassembled anyway to replace the belt, it won't take much to perform a compression test or a cylinder leakage test to see if the valves survived

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Monday, March 14th, 2011 AT 11:17 PM

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

Its an interference engine-when you crank it over do you hear any type of knocking noises on top side of engine? Inspect the timing belt start here

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Monday, March 14th, 2011 AT 11:19 PM

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,742 POSTS

By the way, bent valves requires a valve job and new head gaskets. That's a far cry from a total engine rebuild. If you have more time than money, you might consider looking for an automotive program in a nearby community college. We were always looking for live work for our students. They are very well supervised but it could take a few weeks to get your car back. Also, the engine work will have to fit what they're currently studying so they aren't otherwise in competition with the employers who might hire the graduates.

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Monday, March 14th, 2011 AT 11:22 PM