Engine turns over will not start?

Tiny
CARLEEN LEE ONNEN
  • MEMBER
  • 1991 CADILLAC FLEETWOOD
  • 4.9L
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150,000 MILES
Car sat for a few years we drove it home and put gas in it. Now it won't start. We cleaned the lines and filters it turns over but won't start. The thing acts like it's starving for gas. But we can find the block. And the idle control makes a funny noise. IAC Idle control?
Thursday, November 30th, 2023 AT 4:34 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,645 POSTS
Hi,

In most cases, a crank no-start condition is caused by either a fuel-related issue or ignition-related issue.

Here is what I need you to do. See if the engine will start if you use starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we will know it is a fuel-related issue. If there is no change, I need you to check if there is spark to the spark plugs.

Here is a link that explains how to check for spark:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Additionally, here is a link that explains how to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes. You don't need a scanner for this vehicle. All that is needed is either a short jumper wire or a paper clip.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/buick-cadillac-chevy-gmc-oldsmobile-pontiac-gm-1983-1995-obd1-code-definitions-and-retrieval-method

Try this and let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe

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Thursday, November 30th, 2023 AT 7:51 PM
Tiny
CARLEEN LEE ONNEN
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Check the spark plugs and they were pretty gummed up he's cleaning those.
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Saturday, December 2nd, 2023 AT 10:53 AM
Tiny
CARLEEN LEE ONNEN
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
And it is getting spark.
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Saturday, December 2nd, 2023 AT 10:54 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,645 POSTS
Hi,

Were you able to check if it starts using starting fluid? If it has spark to the plugs, it is likely a fuel-related issue.

Let me know.

Joe
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Saturday, December 2nd, 2023 AT 7:44 PM

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