Cranks will not start

Tiny
EARL WALKER
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 DODGE RAM
  • 5.7L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 132,000 MILES
I have the truck listed above 1500 with a hemi. It shut off at a red light one day and I assumed it was out of fuel since the gas station is where I was headed. Well, I got it to start back up but had to keep the accelerator pressed. Drove right across the street to the gas station; it spitted and sputtered all the way. I put fuel in and would not start. Pushed it out of the way. Upon inspection found that there was no coolant in the reservoir or radiator. I out 1 gallon of 50/50 and 3 gallons of water in it. Let it sit for bit. Still wouldn't start unless holding accelerator to the floor. Had it towed to my house. Pulled and checked all injectors, replaced spark plugs and wires and still have the same issue. Everything I have read so far suggests busted head gasket but oil looks fine and no signs of any leaks underneath the vehicle and no smoke ever came out of the tailpipe. So I want to look at other possibilities before pulling the heads and changing the gaskets.
Monday, January 4th, 2021 AT 1:03 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
I think you are correct. It does sound like a head gasket. However, you don't have to pull the heads to confirm this.

Here is a guide that will solve this:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

The next thing we need to do is run a compression test.

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

So let's start with this and go from there. However, if these check out then we need to start running through this guide on why an engine will not start.

https://youtu.be/dCjmRL3p4Cs

There is a lot of information here so let me know what questions you have.
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Tuesday, January 5th, 2021 AT 6:17 PM
Tiny
EARL WALKER
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Apologies for delays responding. I appreciate your response. I have not had time to get out and try these yet but hope to soon. I will follow up. Thanks again.
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Monday, February 22nd, 2021 AT 8:22 AM
Tiny
KASEKENNY
  • MECHANIC
  • 18,907 POSTS
No problem. We are hear whenever you get back to it. Thanks for the update. We will wait to hear back. Thanks
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Tuesday, February 23rd, 2021 AT 6:23 PM

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