Crank but no start

Tiny
PLATINUMWOLF1352
  • MEMBER
  • 1991 CHEVROLET CAPRICE
  • 5.7L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 1,460,000 MILES
My car will not start, but it would crank. I changed fuel pump, fuel filter, rotor, ignition coil and ignition module.
Monday, January 14th, 2019 AT 7:21 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
Good evening,

You need to find out whether you are missing spark or fuel.

Did you check for spark at a spark plug?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Can you hear the fuel pump run when you turn on the key?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Roy
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Monday, January 14th, 2019 AT 7:49 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,407 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

Many things can cause a crank/no start. First, take a look through this link. It discusses the most common causes of this condition.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

Next, I would suggest checking for diagnostic trouble codes which will help indicate the component in question. Here is a link that shows how to do it on your vehicle. All you need to perform this test is a jumper wire or even a paper clip.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/buick-cadillac-chevy-gmc-oldsmobile-pontiac-gm-1983-1995-obd1-code-definitions-and-retrieval-method

Now with that in mind, I suggest checking for spark and fuel to the engine. Even though the pump is new, it may not be working or producing enough pressure. Here are links that show in general how to check both:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

_________________________________________________________

If there is no spark, my first suspect is the ignition module located in the distributor. Here are the directions for replacing the module:

REMOVAL
1. Remove distributor cap and rotor.
2. Remove pick up coil.
3. Remove two module attaching screws, and lift module up.
4. Disconnect leads from module. Observe color code on leads as these cannot be interchanged.
5. Remove module.

INSTALLATION

NOTE: Be sure there is a sufficient amount of silicone grease on the metal face of the module and on the distributor base (where the module seats), when reinstalling the module. The purpose of the silicone grease is to cool the module.

1. Install module.
2. Connect leads to module.
3. Install module attaching screws.
4. Install pick up coil.
5. Install cap and rotor.

________________________________________

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Monday, January 14th, 2019 AT 7:56 PM

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