Chrysler Repair: 1992 LeBaron no start... how to get the fault codes, exhaust gas recirculation valve, exhaust gas recirculation

Question
I own a 1992 lebaron and I am now experiencing a problem that is obviously a common problem since I have found several other people with the same problem listed time and again on the net. The car would not start so my husband traced the problem to the fuel. He pulled the electrical connector off the fuel pump and used a meter to test the voltage when the ignition is on. He found it showed voltage for only a second and then nothing. This was done several times with the same outcome. He then replaced the relay and we still have the same problem. What would cause the circuit to show 12 volts and then just stop? Any help would be appreciated...Kisa  

Answer
Hi Kisa,
That is how the engine controller is supposed to work. It is a safety feature that cuts off the power to the fuel pump, spark coil, injectors and oxygen sensor so as to miinimize the risk of fire if an accident causes the engine to stop running with the ignition still on. When you start cranking the engine the voltage should return as long as you are cranking it over. If it doesn't then there is a reason for that too, to be determined.
So that alone is not the reason your car won't start. I would suggest that you ask the engine controller for any fault messages stored in its memory. Use the ignition key:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less time. Then watch the check engine light, which will remain 'on' to begin to flash, pause, flash, etc. Count the number of flashes before each pause. Then repeat to assure that the count is accurate. Then group the numbers in pairs to form two-digit numbers that are the fault codes. The last number is always 55, which means "end of Readout". You can go to www.allpar.com/fix/codes.html for a translation. or write me back for specifics on what to do. Chances are there is a clue there. Another possibility is the exhaust gas recirculation valve is stuck ajar which you might mention to your husband to check out. The stem gets sticky and when it won't close by itself the mixture is too lean to allow the starting. He can lube the stem with penetrating oil and make sure it closes positively, then try to start it.
Let me know what you learn. And don't but any more parts without first reading the codes. If you write back tell me the code numbers.
Roland