Shut off while driving, engine cranks but does not start

BRUCE67

MEMBER
1994 ISUZU RODEO
2.6L
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
160,000 MILES

My wife was driving the vehicle listed above about a week ago and she said that when she was turning right it shut off. Got it restarted and it was fine for a couple days. Then she was driving down the freeway and it shut off and this time she wouldn't start back up. I replaced the fuel filter and fuel pump, still nothing. But here's the funny part. It sounds different when I crank it over. I did remove the oil cap and had my wife crank it over to make sure shit was still moving in there so I'm pretty sure it's not the timing belt. But now I am stuck! What else would contribute to the different sound? I want to thank you all in advance for any advice/help you will give me! Peace

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,867 POSTS

Hi Bruce, if it sounds like it is spinning faster than originally, that is likely the belt. Is it possible for you to record it cranking and upload it for me to hear? I can usually tell by the sound of it.

My biggest concern is this: The engine is an interference engine. What that means is this. If the belt jumps time or breaks, there isn't enough clearance between the top of the pistons and the valves. As a result, valves usually get bent and there can be other internal damage.

Let me know. If you can't record it, then here is a link showing how to test engine compression. If it is low or has zero PSI in one of the cylinders, chances are there are bent valves.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

Let me know.

Joe