1995 Dodge Caravan - Need to diagnose problem

ASIM123

MEMBER
1995 DODGE CARAVAN

1995 Dodge Caravan 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 247k miles

Three days ago I parked my 3.3ltr dodge caravan sport wagon at 10:00pm. When I tried to start it in the morning it did not. I attempted to start 15-20 times for 5-6 seconds durations, but, it didn't work. The battery was fully charged and it cranked in each attempt to the full blast. I think the problem is not the battery or starter because the belt was turning in each attempt. I didn't notice even a single fire throughout my attempts. I also checked the 15-amp fuse for the fuel filter it was alright. I am not sure what actually the problem is? But, I have a doubt about the fuel-pump?

I need to know, what the exact problem is, and how much it is going to cost me?
After 13-years I lost my job months ago; barely can afford repair cost. Would highly appreciate your help--thanks

2 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,874 POSTS

Listen by the gas tank while someone turns on the ignition switch. You should hear the pump run for two seconds, then turn off. If not, try banging on the bottom of the tank while someone is cranking the engine, to jar the pump into starting.

Another way to tell if the pump is working is to bypass the fuel pump relay in the Power Distribution Center under the hood. You can remove the cover of the relay, then squeeze the contact, or you can put a paper clip or piece of wire between the two contact terminals in the socket. Disregard the center terminal and the two parallel terminals along the sides of the relay. That leaves two terminals that form the letter "T". When you jump those two terminals, you should hear a hiss from the fuel pressure regulator on top of the engine. The ignition switch does not need to be on for this test.

Sorry about your job. I lost mine four months ago. What a blessing. I'm making more money now in the stock market!

Caradiodoc

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Sunday, April 26th, 2009 AT 10:43 PM

ASIM123

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Yes. It worked. I had somebody to switch on the ignition
While I tried to hear under the fuel tank at the same time, but, I heard nothing. As soon as, I banged under the tank couple of times, it started.
When I tried to start second time, it didn't. In the third attempt to start I banged under the tank again and it started again. This time I kept it running for a while to recharge my almost drained battery.
In order to make sure, it will work again, I started couple of times and then turned off.
Before replying to you, I went out today and started it again. It working out good so far. However, if I need any guidline to avoid any possible mishap in future, I would really appreciate that. Thanks to 2car pros for helping me at this time. God bless you.

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Thursday, April 30th, 2009 AT 12:03 PM