tanager11

Hi guys....have a 91, my first TPI car.

Car was running Great, last drove about 3 weeks ago, went to start it fired up and then stalled about 3 seconds later. Now wont start. Engine turns over as it normally does, and sounds strong, but it just doesnt "catch".

This is my first TPI car. How do you check to see if there is fuel making its way into the cylinder with a TPI since you cant see it with a TBI or carb? (Pump was changed about 3 months ago as preventative maintenance)

Also, how do you check to make sure there is spark without "zapping" myself.

All was working great until yesterday..suggestions?

Dave

ChoobinatoR

they make spark testers, but you can just pull a spark plug out (keep the boot+wire on it) and lay it on the exhaust, then have someone crank the engine over while you watch and listen for spark.

while your at it check the spark plug electrode center piece, look for rounded edges (worn, spark has to jump a greater gap because it shoots on the outsides)

not sure how you can test the fuel going into individual cylinders without pulling them out or pulling the plugs and sniffin for fuel....btw do you smell fuel after you're cranking the engine?

JayB1127

I have a 91 with similar problems, and thru troubleshooting has let me find many other "broken" items. On the left fuel rail there is a place you can check your fuel pressure, Its a good place to start and to make sure you have the proper pressure (Double check But I believe 35-45lbs) and on the right side of the engine there is a spot where you can disconnect you fuel line. Place the line in a Soda bottle to make sure you have fuel going to the engine. As for each cylinder individually I dont believe you can check them, but if you know you have fuel and pressure in the rails you will have fuel to the injectors. You can check the injectors by going to Auto zone and getting a NOID light set(you can rent it for free), that will make sure you are getting signals to the injectors to open. That will give you some more ideas. Keep us updated!!!

My suggestion is to go ahead and swap the fuel filter if you havent. (It was my fix)
Also, what makes you think its fuel?
You may want to look into the ignition system, it may be a bad coil or Ignition Module. (Auto Zone can test both for free as well)

Jay B