Went to start it and it just spins then stops?

Tiny
MELISSA BALE
  • MEMBER
  • 2008 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 210,000 MILES
My vehicle lost power and engine light came one throwing a code for the timing chain. Since then, we have replaced timing chain, oil pump, starter, battery, thermostat, and fluids. We went to start it, and it just spins then stops. Check engine light is not on! We plan to change crankshaft and camshaft sensors next. We are baffled and need some sort of help with possible repair advice.
Tuesday, February 4th, 2025 AT 8:56 AM

11 Replies

Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
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I can help you, but can I ask that you upload a short video of what the engine is going? Is it a hard stop, does the engine start and then stop? Where does the noise seem to be coming from? You can upload it here with your response. We need to hear the noise, so we know which direction to go to help you fix the car. It takes time to upload so please be patient.
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Tuesday, February 4th, 2025 AT 11:55 AM
Tiny
MELISSA BALE
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The engine doesn’t start but the belts are all working. This time it did a small quick backfire around the cover.
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Tuesday, February 4th, 2025 AT 3:02 PM
Tiny
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The check engine light is on now and throwing P0116 code.
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Tuesday, February 4th, 2025 AT 3:03 PM
Tiny
KEN L
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Sorry, there is something wrong with the video, can you try the upload again?

The P0116 code indicates an issue with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Circuit Range/Performance Problem

So, this will not cause the engine to make a noise.
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Wednesday, February 5th, 2025 AT 8:00 AM
Tiny
MELISSA BALE
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Someone mentioned frozen gas lines too. We live in MN and it has been sitting for about 4-5 months now.
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Wednesday, February 5th, 2025 AT 8:05 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Strange, the video does not playback. Is this from a phone?
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Wednesday, February 5th, 2025 AT 8:37 AM
Tiny
MELISSA BALE
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Yes, it is from an iPhone. I’m sorry! Looks like this vehicle is giving me trouble all the way around.
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Wednesday, February 5th, 2025 AT 8:49 AM
Tiny
MELISSA BALE
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I shortened the video, maybe that will help.
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Wednesday, February 5th, 2025 AT 8:53 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Yep, that helped, the engine has no compression. So, the timing chain marks must have been off, or the valve was bent when the timing chain let go. It might be time for a rebuilt/used engine, sorry about that. :/ here is a video series that can help you tear down and repair the engine if you want to do the job yourself:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyX6FwLYDuc&list=PLe3kz1i_LrtX5402mzO6ovoz8xeUdwZ8B

If you need any other help, please be sure to ask. I am happy to help.
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+1
Thursday, February 6th, 2025 AT 7:58 AM
Tiny
MELISSA BALE
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Thank you for your help!
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Thursday, February 6th, 2025 AT 8:46 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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You are welcome, I am happy to help sorry about the bad news.
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Thursday, February 6th, 2025 AT 9:21 AM

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