Engine Cranks But Does Not Start

1990 JEEP WANGLER YJ
107,000 MILES • 4.2L • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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ESGREGORIO
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Last weekend, I changed the spark plug, wires, and distributor cap. When I tried to start the jeep today, it would crank but not start. The check engine light is also not coming on.
Jan 8, 2022 at 11:42 AM
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SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

As you know you will need spark and fuel to start an engine (and compression).
First you need to make sure that you are getting spark to the plugs.
This can be done simply by removing a plug and cranking the engine.

If you have spark, then you need to make sure that fuel is getting to the engine.
Does the fuel pump come on when yo turn the key to the on position?
Typically, the fuel pump is audible when the key is at on position.
And inoperative fuel pump can be due to a bad fuel pump relay, faulty wiring or a bad pump.

Here is a helpful guide:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-cranks-but-wont-start

Let me know what you are experiencing.
Thank you.
Jan 8, 2022 at 2:55 PM
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ESGREGORIO
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The warning light does not come on and I do not hear the fuel pump engage. Does the 1990 Wrangler have a fuse for the fuel pump? Where would I locate the relay? Any other possible electrical issues that may cause the fuel pump not to work? The fuel pump was not showing any sign of going out.
Jan 8, 2022 at 9:20 PM
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SQM
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That was actually the changeover hear for the Wrangler from carbureted to fuel injected.
If you have a carbureted engine, then the fuel pump is a mechanical pump and dot does not have relay or fuse.

The fuel pump is mounted to the front corner of the engine block and is actuated by the fuel pump lever contacting the camshaft.

I have attached the diagrams as well as the testing procedure for the pump.

Have you checked for spark?
Jan 9, 2022 at 2:10 AM
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ESGREGORIO
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Thank you for your help. One more question (for now). When i changed out the spark plug wires, I did not pay attention to the length of each wire. Is there a diagram that shows which wire goes to which plug? I know which plug goes to which distributor post. I just need help on which wire should be used to connect each plug to each post.
Jan 9, 2022 at 4:09 AM
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SQM
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
I have attached a diagram below. It shows the firing order and which post on the distributor cap correlates to which cylinder. This will help you make sure the wires are correct.
Let me know how it goes.
Jan 9, 2022 at 7:06 AM
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