Not Starting?

LORI LORD

MEMBER
2002 CHEVROLET BLAZER
180,000 MILES

The engine sounds like it's going to start but won't. I first thought it was the fuel filter, as this happened a few times before. So, I tried some car starter spray, and the same results, except the 'coughing out of the carburetor. I let it set a day, then tried again all that got me was a rundown battery (which is what usually has happened in the past).
Back to the main issue, it sounds like it will start, before I run the battery down, I turn the key back, it'll still be struggling to run, then sputter and cough out. I hope this makes sense!

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

Hi,

Did this happen all at once? Was the vehicle running properly prior to this?

I have a question. You indicated trying starting fluid. Is that when you heard the noise from the throttle body? By any chance, could you record it cranking and upload it for me to hear?

The idea that it tries to start tells me it should be getting fuel and if it tries, it should be getting spark to the plugs. That is where I'm getting confused because it is usually one or the other causing the issue.

Take a look through this link and let me know if it helps in any way:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-not-running-advanced

Also, let me know if you smell fuel when trying to start it or anything you can think of that may help me diagnose the issue.

Take care,

Joe

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Sunday, December 11th, 2022 AT 6:59 PM

LORI LORD

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Hi Joe,

Thank you for your reply! This is not the 1st time, problem starting the vehicle. I bought it second hand almost 2 years ago. So, I don't know any history about it past that.
It's given me starting problems on and off, starting when the weather gets cold. It would start with a jump, then I got a new battery(recycled)and it was fine, it started no problem throughout the summer. A couple of weeks ago it wouldn't start, we tried to jump it for probably 20 minutes. Nothing- so I went and got 2 gallons. Of gas, which was the fix then So ever since, I make sure it's got at least $20.00 in the tank. (The fuel gauge doesn't work, so I keep track by the trip meter.)
On previous times, it, (for lack of better description) like coughs, like it's getting something out of the way. And then a couple of times of that and it starts.
I do smell gas when it's doing this, I thought it might be the filter because at the time before this I didn't, that also prompted me to buy the starter fluid- All that did was make it cough, pop, and boom.
I will get someone to help me video it for you probably tomorrow. (Got to recharge the battery tonight)
I sure do appreciate your help, patience and effort. Lori

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Sunday, December 11th, 2022 AT 8:20 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

Hi Lori,

You know, often times a backfire is caused by it getting too much fuel. The idea that you smell fuel may indicate the fuel pressure regulator isn't working properly and too much fuel reaches the engine. Or, we may have fuel injectors bleeding off and basically flooding the engine until it starts and burns off the excess fuel.

Go ahead with the video. However, if you are comfortable, it would be a good idea to check fuel pressure and fuel pressure drop-off.

Here is a link that explains in general how it's done:

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

I attached the manufacturer's fuel pressure specifications below for you. In addition to making sure the pressure is within spec, pay attention to how quickly it drops off when you turn the key off.

Let me know what you find and what I can do to help.

Take care,

joe

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Sunday, December 11th, 2022 AT 9:17 PM