Cranks but will not start

Hi,

The idea that there is no spark or fuel may not be related. If I had to guess, the first thing I would think preventing spark is the ignition control module. However, before replacing anything, check to see if there is power and ground to the coil.

I attached a pic below showing where the ground and power is supplied. Also, make sure the ground that coil mount is clean and tight.

As far as the fuel, the injectors could be plugged. The best thing to do is simply check if the injectors are getting a signal. It's been awhile since I dealt with one of these, so I have to ask a couple questions. First, some of these were throttle body injected and others had a multi port fuel injection. Let me know what you have.

Also, keep in mind that even though you hear the fuel pump, it may not be supplying pressure.

Let me know what fuel injection system you have so I can better direct you.

Take care,
Joe

Thanks for your reply. I worked on cars in 70's - very old school. But since then just muddled thru hoping to figure it out as I go and get lucky.

Looked everywhere and have not been able to see a separate coil anywhere? I can see the module down and behind the sideways engine and assumed it has separate coils in it for each plug? If not, I guess I need to be told where to look for the coil. I read that the crank sensor is behind the module on this car.

I'm guessing that the injector (throttle body) has fuel pressure to it but still requires an electrical pulse to cause it to release to each cylinder?

Don't understand the fuel pump. It is in gas tank so assume electric but it only works when car is actually cranking. I cranked all the old gas out taking line off just past filter at tank. It did take a long time, but assumed it had some pressure (no pressure checking valve on car but I am getting some gas to throttle body when loosen the line there).

Since the plugs were still not wet, thought it might be 2 problems of clogged throttle body from old gas deposits from sitting and also no spark; or, one common electric problem. Am not familiar with what is common to both.

Thanks again!

Hi,

Is it possible for you to take a pic of the distributor so I can see what type of ignition you have. Also, I believe the injection is a throttle body type on the 4 cylinder.

Also, have you tried to retrieve codes? You don't need a scan tool. All that's needed is a short jumper wire or even a paper clip. Here is a link that explains how to retrieve codes. Try this and let me know if any are found.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/buick-cadillac-chevy-gmc-oldsmobile-pontiac-gm-1983-1995-obd1-code-definitions-and-retrieval-method

Joe

Yes, I will see if I can get a picture...
Sorry that I am not up on cars past the old carburetor and distributor days. I was assuming the ignition control module was the part that appears to replace the coil/distributor. I am seeing now it is the computer part? The part on the engine I was speaking of which I thought was this module is what all the spark plug wires go to which they say the crank sensor is behind on the engine.
I'm guessing this is where I check for the current from the module to this?

Hi,

I miss the days you mentioned. Things were so much easier. LOL

I attached a pic. Take a look at it and tell me if that is what you are dealing with. If it is, that is the DIS, which can be called distributorless ignition system, direct injection system, and so on. The crankshaft position sensor is behind it. The module is what the coils are attached to.

Let me know.
Joe