2000 Dodge Caravan cranks wont start

Tiny
CSHELL214
  • MEMBER
  • 2000 DODGE CARAVAN
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 132,550 MILES
My 2000 dodge grand caravan cranks but wont start. This has happened a couple of times the past month or so. After it sits a couple or 3 days it cranks right up and is fine for a week or so. I have replaced the plugs, wires, cap, and rotor
Wednesday, November 25th, 2009 AT 8:17 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
CH112063
  • MECHANIC
  • 1,320 POSTS
The engine controller operates both drivers based on a crankshaft and camshaft sense, also if your fuel pump loses pressure any fuel that is supposed to be at pressure behind each injector is not maintained. Do a scan for codes. It is explained under 'Site Map'. Ok
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Wednesday, October 23rd, 2019 AT 2:46 PM
Tiny
KNOWYOURAUTO
  • MECHANIC
  • 113 POSTS
Without having any tests done to verify the problem, from what you have replaced the problem likely lies with the crankshaft position sensor, or RPM pickup as it was called.

Please verify in someway there is fuel getting to the engine either with a gauge or opening the test port valve, rag next to it, and release the pressure. It should spray heavily if the van was just shut off.

Running fuel pressure at idle should be 58psi, + or - 5psi.

Please post back if the problem is solved or let us know how we can continue to assist you.

Good luck.
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Wednesday, October 23rd, 2019 AT 2:46 PM
Tiny
CSHELL214
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I just went outside and tried to start it and it fired right up. I aint done nothing to it since I changed all the plugs and stuff. Reckon it could be the fuel pump relay?
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Wednesday, October 23rd, 2019 AT 2:46 PM
Tiny
KNOWYOURAUTO
  • MECHANIC
  • 113 POSTS
Relays generally stick in one position by almost welding together, so usually fail permanently.

Without performing any tests, I still believe the crankshaft position sensor is causing your problem.

When the problem acts up again either a lab scope or vehicle data scanner will need to be hooked up to verify the fault. If the situation arises and you have access to one of those, post back and I can walk you through it.

Otherwise the sensor is about $45 at a parts store if you would like to go with my assumption.

Keep us updated!

Good luck.
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Wednesday, October 23rd, 2019 AT 2:46 PM

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