1996 Chevy Astro My van won't start

Tiny
SHELTON
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 CHEVROLET ASTRO
  • V8
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 179,000 MILES
I went out and started my van so it could warm up since it was -7. It was running for 30 mintues then it just died. It did not make an noise that I am aware of. I was only outside 15 seconds before the van died. I can turn it over but it will not start.I thought maybe the cold weather had something to do with it but yesterday it was -20. So it was much colder yesterday. The van had been running fine. There were no issues at all.
Tuesday, December 16th, 2008 AT 2:06 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi:
Is the van running now? If so, we will need to wait until it happens again. If and when it does, you need to check for spark to the plugs and check if you're getting fuel. One will most likely be missing.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
+1
Tuesday, December 16th, 2008 AT 3:25 PM
Tiny
SHELTON
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
The van is not running yet. How would I check either of those? It does seem as if it is not getting gas. It does have a full tank. So if gas is the problem how would I checkto see what would be cause the gas to not get there?
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Tuesday, December 16th, 2008 AT 4:25 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi:
To check for spark, get an extra spark plug. You could use the one from your lawn mower if you don't have any laying around. Remove one of the spark plug wires from the engine and plug the wire on to the extra wire. Next lay the plug (metal part) in a steel part of the engine (intake, exhaust manifold.) Anywhere it can get a ground. Have a helper crank the engine while you watch the bottom of the spark plug. It should spark. Let me know what happens.

As far as the fuel pump, it's not as easy but you could do it. Stop by the local Auto Zone or other parts store and ask if they rent tools. If so, and many do, tell them you need the tool to check fuel pump pressure. Inside the box will explain how to use the tool they gave you. If not, ask them. Your fuel pressure should be in the area of 45 PSI. Also, when you turn the switch on, can you hear the pump turn on for a second? You should be able to.

Let me know if you run into trouble, and I want to hear the outcome.

Joe
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Tuesday, December 16th, 2008 AT 7:39 PM
Tiny
SHELTON
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Joe

Thank you for your help. I putsome HEET in my gas tank since it got to -20* degrees out. It seems for certain that my van is not getting gas. So I am not sure if the lines are frozen or if it is the pump. I will let you know for sure as soon as I find out.

Thanks Teresa
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, December 17th, 2008 AT 2:09 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Teresa:
Do you have someone to check the fuel pump or will you do it yourself?

Joe
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, December 17th, 2008 AT 12:13 PM
Tiny
SHELTON
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
I am going to go rent the tool today. As long as the instructions are in there I should be able to figure it out. I am able to get the van started using starting fluid. So I know that I am not getting gas. I would think that with useing the HEET and now that it has warmed up if the fuel lines were frozen they would be thawed by now. After processof elimination I am also sure it is the fuel pump.

Teresa
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, December 17th, 2008 AT 12:21 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi:
It does sound like the pump. I don't know what type of tool you'll get, so make sure to ask them at the store how it works. I believe your fuel pressure should be around 45PSI. Let me know. If the pressure is good, we'll need to look at the injectors.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
Was this
answer
helpful?
Yes
No
Wednesday, December 17th, 2008 AT 12:34 PM

Please login or register to post a reply.

Related Engine Not Running Content

Car Cranking but Not Starting? Try This
VIDEO
Car Cranking but Not Starting? Try This
Instructional repair video
Engine Not Starting
GUIDE
Engine Not Starting
Over the past 20 years at 2CarPros we have identified the top problems that are easily fixed. This guide can save you a trip to the repair garage or calling a tow truck and...
VIEW MORE