Engine starting

I have had the same problem with a couple of vehicles. The problem, in my cases, was the charging system was recharging my battery enough and my battery did not have enough charge to restart. This was more prevalent when I was making a lot of short trips and not driving very long distances, which would allow the alternator enough time to recharge the battery. In both cases, I replaced the battery but only stayed working for short periods of time. Because my driving habits did not change, I wound up getting a battery maintainer (plugs into a household outlet and two clamps to attach to the battery terminals. The device will tell you the state of your battery as well as recharge it). I found mine at O’Reilly’s auto store. So far, I have been lucky enough not to have more major problems and my batteries are still going strong. Hope this helps get you started.

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.com.

If the engine cranks and does not start, either there is no spark to the plugs or no fuel. The easiest way to check which is the problem is by using starting fluid. If it starts for a couple seconds and then shuts off, the problem is fuel related. Also, if it does not start with starting fluid, the issue is spark related.

Also, although this is an OBD 1 system, you can check for trouble codes. Follow the directions on this link to see if there are any codes that may help us identify the cause.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/retrieve-trouble-codes-for-chrysler-dodge-plymouth-odb1-1995-and-earlier-car-mini-van-and-light-trucks

Additionally, here are two links which show how to check fuel pressure and for ignition spark. These should be done when the vehicle refuses to start.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-an-ignition-system

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

If you find there is no spark, the crankshaft position sensor may be bad. Look through this link.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor

Here are general directions for replacement.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/crankshaft-angle-sensor-replacement

The crankshaft position sensor is located on the transmission bell housing of the vehicle. I have attached a picture of it to help you locate it. Keep in mind, often times these sensors only fail when they are hot. When you shut the engine, there is no longer air flow which could allow it to get hot enough to fail and then work again when it cools.

I hope this helps. Let me know what you find and if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe