1993 Saturn SL2 No Start Low Compression

1993 SATURN
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RJHILL1
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  • 2 POSTS
I have a 93 Saturn SL2 1.9L that will not start. I can hear the fuel pump running when I first switch on the key. I have also confirmed spark at the plugs. The car has 190K miles on the engine. I checked the compression at all four cylinders:

cylinder 1 reads 65 pounds
cylinder 2 reads 0
cylinder 3 reads 0
cylinder 4 reads 65 pounds

Is it possible the timing chain has slipped? If so, is it likely the engine was seriously damaged, or would it be worth-wile to try replacing the timing chain and tensioner?
Dec 12, 2006 at 3:15 PM
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BACKYARDMECHANIC
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 337 POSTS
Sounds like it is the chain. I suggest you try and contact Saturn and find out if the motor is a interference motor.(Fancy way of saying the valves will be struck if the timing goes out). If it is then you probably have damage the valves and need to do a valve job along with the chain. Good luck :(
Backyardmechanic
Dec 12, 2006 at 11:36 PM
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RJHILL1
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  • 2 POSTS
Yes it is an interference engine. I guess It would be prudent to replace the engine considering the high milage. Thanks for the advice!
Dec 14, 2006 at 2:49 PM
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Suggested Repair

Treat the zero compression on two cylinders as a likely slipped timing chain on this interference engine. Expect bent valves, so plan a valve job with a timing chain and tensioner, or replace the high-mileage engine.

Conversation Summary

A 1993 Saturn SL2 1.9L with 190,000 miles will not start despite a priming fuel pump and confirmed spark. Compression is 65 psi on cylinders 1 and 4 and 0 psi on cylinders 2 and 3. The expert says the timing chain likely slipped and advises confirming whether it is an interference engine; if so, the valves are probably damaged and need a valve job along with the chain. The owner confirms it is an interference engine and considers engine replacement because of the mileage.

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