QuestionQUESTION: I have just replaced the timing belt and the water pump in my 94 Concorde. After I replaced the belt I rotated the engine 2 X's per the manual and the timing marks lined up. I followed the directions in the Haynes manual and I am now getting spark. However the engine will still not start. I am thinking about starting all over again and verify that I am at TDC. Any other suggestions please let me know. Thank yo so much. Below is pretty much a visual of the procedure I followed.
http://www.geocities.com/phatfoto/repair.html
ANSWER: Hi Daniel,
I reviewed the web site, and I too have the Haynes as well as the '94 Chrysler shop manual (which I could copy the pages from about installing the timing belt and postal mail them to you).
If the issue is timing it might show up as low compression, perhaps which might be worth measuring.
Do you hear the fuel pump hum for a second when you turn the key to "run" position, which is normal. If not, then we need to find out why.
Another favorite of mine for no starts is an egr valve that is stuck ajar so take a look at the valve stem and try moving it with a screwdriver inserted into the slot in the stem. Make sure that it closes tightly to a dead stop via the internal spring-action.
If it were to hang ajar it dilutes the mixture too much to idle.
You might also check for fault codes using the ignition key:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time. Then watch the check engine light, which remains 'on', to begin to flash, pause, flash, etc. Count the number of flashes before each pause. Then repeat to be sure of an accurate count. Group the counts in pairs in order of appearance to form the 2-digit fault code numbers. The last number is always 55 which means end of readout. Then check the Haynes or write back with any useful codes and we can go from there.
Roland
PS Use the 'thank/rate' tab below to get back to me with any results and a postal mailing address if you want the pages. There is a space for comments, to which I will respond. Also, if this has been a helpful answer, I would appreciate a vote (nomination) as 'expert of the month'
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QUESTION: The fuel pump is working. I heard the hum. The only error codes I get are 12 and 55. 12 being Neg batt cable disconnected. I will check the EGR and compression. I the manual there was no ref to TDC only lining up the timing marks.
Thanks for you help.
AnswerHi Daniel,
Wait a minute...since when is there no reference to TDC? My Haynes manual photo 9.7a of chapter 2B shows the crankshaft sprocket line up procedure which is at TDC (why would it be anything but that?). If you didn't do that then it is no doubt out to time and explains why it won't start. But maybe I misunderstand you.
Roland
Thanks for the evaluation and remarks...any chance you might give me a nomination as well?
