1993 Chrysler Le Baron Broken timing belt, now car wont sta

Tiny
RANGER812572
  • MEMBER
  • 1993 CHRYSLER LE BARON
  • 6 CYL
  • FWD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 189,000 MILES
I bought a 93 Chrysler Lebaron that had broken the timing belt. I replaced the belt, and as far as I could tell I had lined the timing marks up correctly (Per the Book I used). Car has the 3.0L V6. I attempted to start the car, and it sounds like its not getting compression. Someone told me that the pickup coil in the distributor is bad. I replaced the spark plugs and the distributor cap on the off chance that its not getting spark. I know it is getting spark from the coil to the cap. I am at a loss of where to go from here, but I am picking up a new distributor this week. I am told by some auto parts shops that this is an interference engine, and even a Chrysler dealer told me the same thing. However, I have found documentation online on a Chrysler enthusiast website and a couple other sites stating different. Is it or is it not an interference engine? The previous owner of the car said she was driving the car when the belt snapped, and she was doing like 30 miles an hour. ALso, how would I be able to tell if the motor has seized? WHen turning the key, I do know that the drive belt is seen turning if thats any indication. I wish there were a way to upload sounds to this website, because then you would understand what I am hearing. Its just the sound of the car turning, does not sound like a 3.0 trying to start. I had a 92 Caravan before with the same motor, so I know what it should sound like. The best way I can describe it is just sounds like a lack of compression. Would no spark to the motor do the same thing? SHould I pull the new plugs I installed and check them for gas? I am just trying to figure out all of the things it may be. I really need this car running!
Sunday, May 24th, 2009 AT 7:34 AM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,755 POSTS
You need to check for compression. Based on your description, that sounds like the problem. It doesn't matter if you are getting fuel, spark and it's in time. If there is low or no compression, it won't start.

Here is a how to for checking compression and one to make sure you are getting spark to the plugs.

https://www.2carpros.com/dia/how_to_check_compression.htm

https://www.2carpros.com/how_to/how_to_test_an_ignition_system.htm

Let me know what you find and we'll go from there. Also, if you need directions for checking fuel pump pressure, let me know.

Joe
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Friday, October 9th, 2009 AT 6:10 PM

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