1998 Dodge Caravan Van won't start

LASCANO1960

MEMBER
1998 DODGE CARAVAN
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
195,000 MILES

One day my van wouldn't start. I thought it just might be the spark plugs or something. I changed 4 of them but can't reach the last 2 behind the engine. But, it still won't start. It sounds like it wants to, but, nothing. I thought it was out of gas at first, but, even after adding 4 gallons, still nothing. So, could it be that I let the gas get so low that maybe I plugged up the fuel filter or did something with the fuel pump? Is there any way to get to the fuel filter or pump without taking the tank off. I am a female with no male help, and have learned to do many things on my own. Is this something I can do myself? I don't have any money to take my car somewhere.

6 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,765 POSTS

Hi:

The back plugs are tough. However, have you checked for spark to the plugs? If not, take one of the two new one you have left, plug it into one of the front spark plug wires and ground it on the engine. Get a helper to crank the engine while you watch the new plug for spark.

If you have spark, you will need to check for fuel / pressure and volume. I recommend you have someone do this for you because it requires a specal tool.

Let me know if it has spark.
Joe
PS: Is the check engine light on? And, your idea about running the fuel too low is possible but unlikely.

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Friday, October 17th, 2008 AT 11:02 PM

LASCANO1960

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4 POSTS

Yes, it has spark. I tried that already, but, forgot to mention that. I am sorry. I will see if there is someone who might be able to help me check the other. Thanks. I will let you know.

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Saturday, October 18th, 2008 AT 7:38 AM

LASCANO1960

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4 POSTS

How am I supposed to use this special tool if my vehicle won't start? Is there some other way to find out if it is this pressure problem?

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Monday, October 27th, 2008 AT 8:54 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,765 POSTS

The tools I'm refering to are for testing the seperate components without the vehicle running.

I just posted your questions with the other moderators. I'll let you know what they say. Also, one of them may respond directly to you.

As far as the fuel pump pressure, you already answered that question for me when you said there is no power to the coil.

Joe

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Monday, October 27th, 2008 AT 9:14 PM

LASCANO1960

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4 POSTS

I am so sorry. I don't know what "coil" you are talking about. I feel so stupid. I try to do things myself to save money. But, I did try the "spark" thing. I do have spark. Is that the "coil" that you mention? Again, I apologize for being such a pain in the.

Lynne