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Will not Start!!

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Old Jun 13, 2011 | 11:52 AM
  #1  
Humminbird1's Avatar
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Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 6
From: Louisiana
Default Will not Start!!

Can not seem to figure out the problem with my car. Had different ones checking it out to no avail. Had numerous problems and had them fixed, but this time do not know why, But IT WILL NOT START.

A quick rundown of repairs:
Replaced ignition switch (8 months ago)
Got a new battery (4 months ago)
Replaced rotor in distributor and plugs (3 months ago)
Replaced radiator hoses and thermostat (6 months ago)
Replaced radiator and thermostat (6 weeks ago)

After new radiator was installed car was tested and did fine, I picked it up would not start, finally after 20 minutes started with a puff of white smoke.
Ran fine start and stop on and off while running errands, but after a couple of hours would not start again and has not since. Can not figure out the problem. My brother says he can do some repairs but is no Mechanic. I know this is long but is the history. I need my car. Cannot get it cranked to take to Mechanic for diagnostics. Help please. Any ideas.

Any input is greatly appreciated.
 
Old Jun 13, 2011 | 01:37 PM
  #2  
Tek310's Avatar
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Joined: May 2011
Posts: 552
From: Dallas, TX
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do you get any electronics when you turn the key to II or On?

any sound when trying to start?
 
Old Jun 13, 2011 | 02:54 PM
  #3  
Humminbird1's Avatar
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From: Louisiana
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yes all lights and buzzers on. yes sounds like it wants to start but will not
 
Old Jun 13, 2011 | 03:09 PM
  #4  
PAhonda's Avatar
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Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 16,328
From: Houston, TX
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Did you replace or inspect the contacts on the distributor cap?

When you turn the key to start the car, does the starter start spinning the engine? If nothing happens when you turn the key, then something is up with the starter.

If the starter is spinning the engine, then a no-start is typically due to lack of spark or lack of fuel. Do you have a timing light?

Also, turn the key to the II position, but do not try to start the car. While the check engine light turns on, the fuel pump should turn on for about two seconds. It is a faint buzzing/whirling sound that comes from the back seat, so turn off the radio, blower, etc and listen carefully. It may be easier to remove the gas cap and listen there, while someone else turns the key to the II position.

You can also check for engine codes. In the DIY section, there is a thread called How to Check CEL codes that will give you directions.
 
Old Jun 13, 2011 | 06:11 PM
  #5  
Humminbird1's Avatar
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Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 6
From: Louisiana
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Thanks. Will try to get these checked out asap.
 
Old Jun 22, 2011 | 08:36 PM
  #6  
Humminbird1's Avatar
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Joined: Jun 2011
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From: Louisiana
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Had a few checks done still no start.
Replaced battery again, spark plugs and wires has fire/spark.
Listened for fuel pump did hear it for a second or so.
Trying to avoid a large repair bill.

I appreciate this forum.
 
Old Jun 22, 2011 | 09:33 PM
  #7  
PAhonda's Avatar
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From: Houston, TX
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How did you verify spark?

Did you try spraying starting fluid into the throttle body while someone tries to start the car?
 
Old Jun 23, 2011 | 09:03 AM
  #8  
Humminbird1's Avatar
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Joined: Jun 2011
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From: Louisiana
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No. He just took off each plug wire and inserted a tool and had someone to turn over and he said they all has spark/fire.

Did not smell gas after trying to start car several times. Listened for fuel pump and did hear it whirr/hiss or whatever it is called.

I am leaning towards fuel pump, but not sure. Starter turns overand all lights , buzzers come on. Just will not start.

Also, Check Engine Light Stays on.
 

Last edited by Humminbird1; Jun 23, 2011 at 10:30 AM. Reason: addition
Old Jun 23, 2011 | 02:14 PM
  #9  
PAhonda's Avatar
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From: Houston, TX
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Since the CEL stays on, have engine codes scanned.
 
Old Jun 23, 2011 | 03:48 PM
  #10  
Humminbird1's Avatar
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Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 6
From: Louisiana
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Thanks, but don't know how I will do that. It won't start to take it to mechanic shop for diagnostics. Suppose I will just have to bite the bullet and spend $$$$ to have it towed.
 



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