Sputters, backfires and will not start

COLLIN KIRK

MEMBER
2004 HYUNDAI SANTA FE
2.7L
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
130,000 MILES

Changed the front valve cover gasket (and spark plug seals seals). Then replaced the serpentine belt. Purposefully avoided disturbing any timing chain systems. Not sure how to fix the problem. It seems the timing is really bad.

Friday, November 5th, 2021 AT 6:07 PM

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,708 POSTS

Hi,

It does have a timing belt, but if it was okay prior to replacing the valve cover gasket kit, it should be fine.
If I had to guess, I suspect the spark plug wires have been installed in the wrong order. When you reinstalled them, did you make sure they went to the same cylinders?

I attached two pics. The first one identifies cylinder number and pic 2 shows the coil and identifies each cylinder. You need to make sure the spark plug wires go from the coil to the correct spark plug. For example, coil #1 spark plug wire goes to cylinder 1 spark plug.

Also, if it is possible, record what it is doing and upload it for me to hear.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

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Friday, November 5th, 2021 AT 9:07 PM

COLLIN KIRK

MEMBER
2 POSTS

First, this site is awesome, and I really appreciate the input from a fresh perspective. I only replaced one valve cover gasket and when I removed the spark plugs, I laid the wires over to the right and each one can only go to its own plug well. I bought one of these fresh from the dealer when they came in. My first one was made in Canada and was stolen. Didn't have a single issue until well past 160,000. I enjoyed the repairs and learned a lot about this particular vehicle. I was eager to replaced it and really got a horrible deal but didn't know that until it was too late. This one was made in Korea and as it's supposed to be the exact same vehicle, there are many things that are not the same. Regardless I wasn't concerned that something would arise for which I couldn't find the remedy. Guess I'll be eating those words. I will try for that recording over the weekend. Thanks again!

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Friday, November 5th, 2021 AT 10:40 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,708 POSTS

Hi,

I will watch for the video. Also, make sure none of the sensors on the fresh air intake is disconnected, make sure it's tight, and check for any other possible vacuum leaks.

Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-an-engine-vacuum-gauge

Hang in there. I'm too stubborn to let it beat us. LOL We'll figure it out.

Take care.

Joe

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Saturday, November 6th, 2021 AT 8:41 PM