QuestionHi Roland. It all started with water pump leaking, vehicle started to overheat but was turned off to prevent a further problem. Replaced waterpump, thermostat, sparkplugs, all belts, changed oil and and changed to correct trans fluid. Vehicle has 101,000 miles on it. After waterpump was replaced, attempted to put timing belt etc on and vehicle wouldn't turn over to run, just crank only. Took it to mechanic, he corrected timing and then said vehicle will not start due to bent valve. I had vehicle towed back to shop, looked it over and put belts back on. I cranked vehicle and it cranked and cranked, and then turned over. Tried it again and again for a couple days, vehicle turned over and ran at rough idle, only if I moved gas pedal constantly. Had a very rough idle then died instantly with a clunk and the sound of cans following behind a wedding vehicle noise. Vehicle will not start at all. No codes, no lights, tried on off with key-nothing. Removed battery cables, took off dist. cap and rotor, they appear to be worn down. What now? I am confused. Help please. I did check all subjs relating to this and nothing answers my problem. You have alot of knowlege.
AnswerHi Lori,
The bent valve theory is false, as this engine is a non-interference design. I am not sure what could have made the clunking sound the last time that it ran.
I would have a helper crank while you check for spark or not? Do you hear the fuel pump run for about a second when you first turn the key to the run position without trying to start it, which you should?I am unclear as to who did what repairs as to whether someone else might be under an obligation to you. But in any case, you would do well to at least check that the cam sprockets are aligned to the marks when you are at TDC of the #1 compresssion stroke.
The other part to check would be the egr valve to make sure that it is not stuch ajar. Look along the exhaust return pipe that goes from the front bank of cylinder back to the throttle body where you will find the valve. It has a metal rod (the valve stem) in between the top round part and the body of the valve. The rod has a slot into which you can insert the tip of a screwdriver. Use that to move the rod back and forth against spring action in one direction that tries to close the valve. Make sure the valve closes tight by that spring action by feel. If it seems gummy in action then spray some WD-40 on the stem where it enters the body and then move the stem back and forth to free up its motion.
Then try to start it again.
Roland
