Crank no start

Welcome to 2CarPros.

First, make sure the battery hold down isn't touching the positive terminal on the battery. If it shorts (and based on your description it sounds like it did) it can cause a fire or major battery issues.

Now that it doesn't start, does the starter still turn the engine?

Let me know.

Joe

If it is starting with starting fluid, then there is a fuel issue. With that, I need you to check two things. First, confirm the fuel pressure is within the manufacturer's specs. Here is a link that shows how to check pressure:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator

Here are the directions specific to your vehicle for testing fuel pressure:

All 1982---83 Models;
1984---85 Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis & Town Car

1. Check for adequate supply of fuel.
2. Check for fuel leakage at all lines and fittings.
3. Check continuity to fuel pump as follows:
a. Disconnect electrical connector just forward of fuel tank, then connect a voltmeter to body wiring harness connector.
b. Turn ignition key to ``On'' while observing voltmeter. Voltmeter should indicate battery voltage, then return to zero after one second.
c. Turn ignition switch to Start position momentarily while observing voltmeter. Voltmeter should indicate approximately eight volts while cranking.
d. If voltages are not as specified, check electrical system and make necessary repairs.
4. Check fuel pump operation as follows:
a. Disconnect return fuel line at throttle body, then connect hose from throttle body fitting to a calibrated container of at least 1 quart capacity.
b. Connect pressure gauge T80L-9974-A or equivalent to fuel diagnostic valve on fuel charging assembly.
c. Disconnect electrical connector to fuel pump just forward of fuel tank, then connect an auxiliary wiring harness to fuel pump connector.
d. Energize pump for 10 seconds by connecting auxiliary wiring harness to a fully charged 12 volt battery. Observe pressure while pump is energized.
e. Allow fuel to flow into container while observing capacity. The fuel pressure reached should be 35---45 psi and the fuel capacity should be a minimum of 1/3 quart in 10 seconds. Fuel pressure should remain steady at 30 psi immediately after de-energizing the fuel pump. The fuel pump is operating normally if the above conditions are met.
f. If specified pressure in step 4(e) is obtained, but volume is below specifications, check for obstructions in fuel filters or supply lines. After making the necessary corrections, repeat steps d and e. If fuel volume is not as specified, replace pump.
g. If specified volume in step (e) is obtained, but pressure is below specifications, check for damaged or worn pressure regulator.
h. If both pressure and volume are as specified in step e, but pressure is not maintained after de-energizing, check for leaking injector valve and/or pressure regulator. If both are satisfactory, replace fuel pump.

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Let me know the results. Please remember, I am basing this on the idea that it starts for a couple seconds using starting fluid.

Joe

Welcome back:

If it won't start with starting fluid or gas, the problem must be ignition related. Check to see if there is spark to the plugs. Here is a link that shows how to check. Also, you mentioned you placed gas in the carburetor. I believe this year was early fuel injection. Is that correct?

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

Here are a few links that may help:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

If you find it does have spark, we will need to dig deeper into the engine itself.

Let me know what you find. Also, if you could upload a picture of where the battery issue occurred, it may help me.

Joe

Hi:
Okay, a throttle body. Have you had any luck getting it to run?

Joe

Welcome back,

That's not good or safe. Do me a favor, follow the link attached and check alternator output.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

Here is a link that you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

Let me know the results.

Joe

Welcome back:

Wow! That will do it. I reread the posts and you said when you jumped the starter it worked and the belts were turning but the car wouldn't start. That's why I didn't suspect the starter itself or the solenoid.

Regardless, I'm glad you got it fixed. Let us know if we can help in the future.

Take care,
Joe