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mwcbcc
New User
Oct 31, 2009, 3:20 PM
Post #1 of 4
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stratus won't start
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I have a 1998 Dodge Stratus (180000 miles) that we had to replace the radiator on. The car was turned off before it got too hot, but now it will not start. It has fuel, has fire, but will not kick on. Can anyone help?
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Oct 31, 2009, 3:23 PM
Post #2 of 4
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Re: stratus won't start
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All "crank, no start" conditions are approached in the same way. Every engine requires certain functions to be able to run. Some of these functions rely on specific components to work and some components are part of more than one function so it is important to see the whole picture to be able to conclude anything about what may have failed. Also, these functions can ONLY be test during the failure. Any other time and they will simply test good because the problem isn't present at the moment.
If you approach this in any other way, you are merely guessing and that only serves to replace unnecessary parts and wastes money.
Every engine requires spark, fuel and compression to run. That's what we have to look for.
These are the basics that need to be tested and will give us the info required to isolate a cause.
1) Test for spark at the plug end of the wire using a spark tester. If none found, check for power supply on the + terminal of the coil with the key on.
2) Test for injector pulse using a small bulb called a noid light. If none found, check for power supply at one side of the injector with the key on.
3) Use a fuel pressure gauge to test for correct fuel pressure, also noticing if the pressure holds when key is shut off.
4) If all other tests are passed. then perform a complete compression test and record the results. All cylinders should be over 120lbs in most cases and all be within 10% of each other.
Once you have determined which of these functions has dropped out,
you will know which system is having the problem.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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mwcbcc
New User
Oct 31, 2009, 3:38 PM
Post #3 of 4
(2118 views)
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Re: stratus won't start
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There is spark. I changed the plugs and retested and the spark is good. I have fuel and fuel pressure. I should still have compression as the car was running when the hole was put in the radiator. We turned it off, it did not die. I guess I need to check for power at the injectors. Thank you.
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Oct 31, 2009, 3:44 PM
Post #4 of 4
(2113 views)
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Re: stratus won't start
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You need to check for injector pulse, not just power.
We also need to know what the fuel pressure is, not just that there is some.
Don't assume anything. If you do have injector pulse and correct fuel pressure, then you need to do a compression test.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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