Chrysler Repair: Starting problems, chysler, engine controller

Question
Hello,

I own a Chysler 300m-1999...and recently had the transmission rebuilt...I never had this problem before and this morning I tried to start the car and it wouldnt start. I pressed on the gas like twice and it worked...it started. But while driving to school, it cut off while driving up a hill. Can you help?

Answer
Hi Corey,
The modern engine systems have an on-board diagnostic ability. But whether you can access it yourself without a readout tool is uncertain. You could give it a try: The most useful thing to do would be to try to get the fault codes that may stored in the engine controller memory to readout. Try using the ignition key: turn it "on-off-on-off-on" and leave it "on" (doing this quickly, no longer than 5 seconds). By "on" I mean just the normal position when the engine is running, not the cranking position. The 'check engine'light will remain on when you leave the key in the "on" position with the engine still not running. But then watch the 'check engine' light to begin flashing, then pause, flashing, pause, etc. Count the number of flashes before each pause and keep track of the numbers. Repeat the readout and verify the counts are correct. Then group them in pairs in the order that they came out, thus forming two digit numbers. You may notice that the pause is shorter between the digits of a given number, and longer between the numbers themselves. Then send me a 'follow-up' question telling me the results of your readout. By the way, 55 will be the last number (two groups of 5 flashes each) and that is the code for "end of readout".
I have the troubleshooting manual for several engines and we can look up the possibilities of what is wrong based upon what fault codes you show. When you write back tell me what engine is in the Chrysler you are driving.
There is also an essay on fault codes at the site:
http://www.allpar.com/fix/codes.html
which gives the meaning of the code numbers. But then you need to get specific info for what exactly might be the diagnostic tests or parts to replace to complete the repair.
If this approach doesn't produce fault codes at all, not even a 55, then you will have to go to a good tune-up shop where they have a more sophisticated code reader in order see if there are any codes. You should be able to get a readout for under $50 and the cost may be deducted from the repair if they do the job (ask first).
The problem could be one of fuel pressure being too low (pump or pressure regulator) or a spark issue. You can check for spark using a phillips head screw driver tip inserted into one of the spark plug wire caps in place of the plug so that the tip touches the wire connector deep in the cap, then hold the plastic handle of the screwdriver so the shaft is 1/4" from the cylinder head while a helper cranks the starter. (Don't touch any metal, so you don't get a shock), Just watch for a spark to jump from the screwdriver shaft to the cylinder head across the 1/4" gap. Don't crank it for more than 5 seconds. If you get spark then that is o.k. and the fuel supply issue is more likely.
So give those things a try then write back with the results.
Roland