Fixing timing, no start still

DOM.MAYER2002

MEMBER
2002 HONDA ACCORD
2.3L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
200,000 MILES

Timing jumped on the motor, so I replaced the head because it was leaking lots of oil and burning lots and replaced the timing as well. I replaced all four spark plugs and distributor wires, cap, and rotor also has a new battery. I've attempted to set the timing on this motor about 50 times now and it cranks but it's not starting. Sometimes I get 1 very loud backfire from the exhaust, sometimes I don't get anything. I had at one point where I would get 1 small poof from the exhaust every time I tried to start it (has an aftermarket exhaust, that's why I'm able to hear it so well if that makes any difference) I was told by a friend to rotate the crank 1 full spin then to set the head at top dead center thinking that maybe I didn't have the correct cylinder up since it's a 2 cycle engine. Tried that and still no start. Seeing if anybody here has any ideas on something I could have missed or am doing wrong.

6 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,896 POSTS

Hi,

Is it possible for you to record it cranking and upload it for me to hear? That will really help me.

As far as timing, the easiest thing to make a mistake on is firing order. Confirm the plug wires are going to the correct cylinders. If you look at pic 1, it shows cylinder orientation and firing order. In the very last pic, the distributor cap identifies which plug wire tower is for each cylinder.

Next, I attached the directions specific to this vehicle for the removal and replacement of the timing belt. Review it and see if there is anything you may have missed and if the timing marks indicated are how you had it.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

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Saturday, December 25th, 2021 AT 11:27 PM

DOM.MAYER2002

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I had one of my buddies listen to it crank and he thinks it sounds like it's cranking too fast than it should. I've reviewed the wiring orientation and that is still correct. I can get a video of it turning over when I get home, this is the only video of turning I have if this helps any.

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Sunday, December 26th, 2021 AT 9:05 AM

DOM.MAYER2002

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Never mind, I was able to snag a video quick before I left my house.

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Sunday, December 26th, 2021 AT 9:22 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,896 POSTS

Hi,

The engine has no compression. Either timing is off, valves are stuck open, the spark plugs are removed, or the new cylinder head is completely bad. Just listening to it, there isn't any compression. It will never start. I did hear the backfire in the first video. Likely, there is a build-up of unburned fuel in the cylinders which eventually ignite.

If you can and want confirmation, I would recommend performing a compression test on the engine. I can't imagine you will find more than 20 psi in each cylinder. Here is a link that shows how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

Here is the really bad news. All Honda engines are interference engines other than a couple of their V6 engines. What that means is this. If the timing is off, there isn't enough room/clearance between the tops of the pistons and an open valve. As a result, they hit and cause internal damage.

So, I need to know if the timing marks were exactly as they are indicated in the directions I provided. (Camshaft and crankshaft)

Let me know.

Joe

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Sunday, December 26th, 2021 AT 8:21 PM

DOM.MAYER2002

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Yes, I have set the timing marks to the correct markings. I have been setting them repeatedly because I think I'm getting the timing a tooth off or so which I'm not sure if that could cause damage or not. When trying to start it, I don't hear any abnormal ticking or knocking in the motor, so I don't think any internal damage has been done yet, I hope at least. I got the head used off a donor car with 120,000 miles with rear suspension damage.