Engine wont crank over

VLARRY

MEMBER
1988 CHEVROLET S-10
2.8L
V6
4WD
AUTOMATIC
216,000 MILES

So I recently purchased this vehicle used, but at the moment I can't figure out exactly what's wrong with it. The guy I bought it from said he had hired somebody to install the used engine with 86,000 miles on it but they never finished the job. It is missing hoses. I just replaced the ICM but I'm trying to figure out why it still won't crank and why the gauges freak out when I turn the key.

4 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,959 POSTS

Hello,

It sounds like the battery is weak. To confirm the issue here is a guide to help you load test the battery. Also check the grounds from the battery to the engine block and frame.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

Please run down this guide and report back.

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Monday, July 1st, 2019 AT 2:20 PM

VLARRY

MEMBER
6 POSTS

I tried to jump start it yesterday, but I believe the cables I used are just too old as there were no sparks coming from either battery. But another issue is the rpm gauge continuously going up without engine even being on it just goes up and the fuel pump works. I just don't know why the rpm goes up.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Monday, July 1st, 2019 AT 2:47 PM

VLARRY

MEMBER
6 POSTS

It only goes up when the key is in the on position and the engine primes itself but the gauge just doesn't stop moving the oil pressure also stays high as well as the temperature gauge (which could just be that outta very hot outside) and won't go down until the key is turned off.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Monday, July 1st, 2019 AT 2:49 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,959 POSTS

It sounds like the cables and battery need to be replaced. Here is a guide to help walk you through the battery replacement:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-car-battery

and this may help as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/starter-not-working-repair

Please run down these guides and report back.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

Tuesday, July 2nd, 2019 AT 1:40 PM