car will not start after installing water pump?

2000 DODGE INTREPID

157,000 MILES • 3.2L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

JOEDOG13

MEMBER
1 POST

Change the water pump on my car, then the car would not start. It cranks but does not start. So, I thought it was the fuel pump changed, car still didn't start. Could it be possible that the timing is off? I did not mess with the timing, but the markings weren't where they were supposed to be, but I left everything the way it was I'm just made my own markings and I just left everything as is. But prior to that the car was sitting for about 3 months but started up just fine, then I then I put the water pump in and then car does not start.

Aug 17, 2022 at 2:37 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
110,194 POSTS

Hi,

If you remove the water pump, there is a good chance the belt moved and it's not properly timed. Are there any odd engine sounds when cranking it? Before you tried starting it, did you turn the engine by hand to confirm it wasn't locking?

Do me a favor. Check to see if there is spark to the plugs. Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

If there is spark, before we go any further, record the engine cranking and upload it for me to hear. I should be able to tell if it is a timing issue. If I can't then we need to remove the timing cover again and make sure it is set properly.

The 3.2L engine is what is known as an interference engine. If it is far enough out of time, it can cause internal damage to the engine.

Let me know.

Joe

Aug 17, 2022 at 9:40 PM

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