After parking overnight the engine would not start

MARC SAMUEL GROSS

MEMBER
1999 DODGE DURANGO
5.2L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
257,652 MILES

Initial diagnosis was a bad starter and battery was over 7 years old so I replaced it as well. Now engine won't crank over. However if I remove the spark plugs it turns over just fine.

Saturday, October 31st, 2020 AT 4:23 PM

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

By removing the spark plugs, you eliminate compression and make it much easier to turn the engine.

Can you record it both with the plugs and without so I can hear what is happening? If you can't, explain what happens when the plugs are in the engine. For example, is there a clicking sound?

Let me know.

Joe

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Saturday, October 31st, 2020 AT 8:03 PM

MARC SAMUEL GROSS

MEMBER
2 POSTS

So when the plugs are in it acts as if it's a bad starter. It clicks to engage and nothing. It acts like the motor is frozen up. Then you take out the plugs and it spins over. Although it doesn't seem like it's spinning all that fast.

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Sunday, November 1st, 2020 AT 2:04 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

Marc,

Is it possible for you to record it cranking with no plugs so I can hear it? Also, if possible, do the same with the plugs in.

When you first remove the plugs, do me a favor. Have a helper crank the engine while you watch to see if anything comes out of the spark plug holes. I'm questioning if coolant or something other is getting into the cylinders and causing a hydrostatic lock.

Let me know.
Joe

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Sunday, November 1st, 2020 AT 8:00 PM

MARC SAMUEL GROSS