Crank no start issue?

1996 CHEVROLET EXPRESS
149,880 MILES • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
DTCLARK
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
My van has run perfectly fine for the past few days with the only minor hiccup being the power sometimes cutting when I try to start it but then working fine when I try again after. I assume that problem is unrelated. I've been driving up and down an extremely dusty and bumpy road for a few weeks and camping in the woods. When I woke up this morning, I attempted to start it and the starter keeps trying but there's no turnover. The oil pressure rises when I continue to try, nothing electrical cuts out and I've even tried jumping it, but it feels like it's not getting any fuel to me and my friend.

I don't have any idea where the fuel injectors or similar components are on my van, so I haven't been able to check. Being in the woods leaves me at a disadvantage for performing diagnostic or getting beneath the van. I also have no testing equipment. If possible, I would appreciate some form of ghetto fix for now as I'm still waiting on my first paycheck before I can get parts or fluids, having my vehicle being able to start just once more would allow me to at least relocate closer to work and get it properly fixed.
May 21, 2023 at 2:17 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

By chance, can you get starting fluid? If you can, see if it starts and then stalls. If it does, then we know it is fuel related. If there is no change, chances are there is no spark to the plugs. In most cases, which is the result of a faulty crankshaft position sensor.

Here is a link that explains how to check for spark, but it does require some basic tooling. If you have no access to anything, I'm not sure what to say because a crank no start condition can be caused by different things.

Here is the link for checking spark:

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

Let me know if you could try either of those two tests.

Take care,

joe
May 21, 2023 at 2:42 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.