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91 Dodge Caravan Won't Start


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Toolage
New User

Jul 22, 2012, 12:48 PM

Post #1 of 2 (2639 views)
91 Dodge Caravan Won't Start Sign In

Hi guys, I'll try and keep this concise.

I have a 91 Dodge Caravan 3.3L V6 AWD with 165k miles on it.

A few days ago it drove fine. I parked it at home and the next morning it wouldn't start.

The engine will crank and seems to turn over and almost catch, but just won't start.

For starters, I have replaced and tested the spark plugs. No problem there. I also replaced the fuel pump relay and the fuel filter. I can hear the whirr of the fuel pump coming on when I turn the key on. I have also tested the battery and fully charged it. I checked engine codes but it gave me nothing.

I'm out of ideas, but I'm not exactly a mechanic. Could it be a faulty fuel pump?

EDIT: It has a half tank of gas, so I'm not just trying to start it on fumes.

Any feedback is appreciated!


(This post was edited by Toolage on Jul 22, 2012, 12:51 PM)


Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Hammer Time profile image

Jul 22, 2012, 12:58 PM

Post #2 of 2 (2623 views)
Re: 91 Dodge Caravan Won't Start Sign In

 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 tested 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 of these things check good, then you would need to do a complete compression test.

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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