Engine cranks but wont catch

1996 OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS
70,000 MILES • 3.1L • V6 • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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ROCKY9395
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Just bought the car. It needed a jump to start and would run fine. Replaced with a new battery, twice, with 650cca. Now it cranks but will not catch, even with a jump. A couple of times it almost caught but that was it.
Aug 7, 2016 at 9:45 AM
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HMAC300
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try resetting security system or another key. your diode may be worn on that one. a new one wont work as it will need to be programmed to your car.
Aug 7, 2016 at 12:06 PM
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ROCKY9395
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There is no security system and it is a standard ignition key. It started fine the first time, without a jump. I do not think it is the key. It almost fully started after a plug was pulled out and plugged back in to the air filter cover. Maybe a compression issue?
Aug 8, 2016 at 1:28 PM
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HMAC300
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well there is a security system on it through the key even though it does not look like it. have it scanned for codes by a mechanic.
Aug 8, 2016 at 3:16 PM
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STRAILER
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Sometimes when you put a new battery in it can blow a fuse, also did you happen to jump it backwards? this will fry the computer, here is a guide so you can do some more checking

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

Check the fuel pressure as well. The pump may have went out.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator


Let us know what yo find

Best, Ken


Aug 8, 2016 at 5:35 PM
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ROCKY9395
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Ok thx I'll give these a try!
Aug 8, 2016 at 5:51 PM
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ROCKY9395
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Tried the starter fluid. The car started for about 20 seconds then puttered out, wouldn't restart.
Aug 15, 2016 at 2:20 PM
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STRAILER
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Okay, let's try check for injector pulse while it is not starting

here is a a guide that will help you

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-fuel-injector

Let me know what you find

Best, Ken
Aug 15, 2016 at 2:35 PM