'88 won't start
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 405
Likes: 7
From: Raleigh NC
'88 won't start
So all of a sudden this weekend my 88' will not start. Usually starts right up but now it only sounds like it wants to start but doesn't. I've got fuel, air and spark so not sure what's going on. I'm starting to think that VATS has disabled car but I thought that if that was the case....it wouldn't turn over. 
Been reading that it could be pickup coil or ignition module but want to see what's more likely the issue before I start throwing money at issue. Any help here would be great appreciated. Thanks!
Been reading that it could be pickup coil or ignition module but want to see what's more likely the issue before I start throwing money at issue. Any help here would be great appreciated. Thanks!
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 6,192
Likes: 750
From: near the thumb in the mitten
You might want to check for codes first. Pick up coil sends signal to module. Module sends signal to ignition coil to make spark and ECM to turn on injectors. ECM grounds injectors to turn them on and take over timing after engine starts. Failed pick up coil - no spark or injector pulse. Failed module - either no spark or no injector pulse normally and possibly EST code stored. ECM normally no injector pulse and possible code stored. It you have spark at 2 spark plugs, fuel pressure is over 35 psi, and noid or test light blinks in the injector connectors. It must be timing, compression, or both. I would do a compression test. very low compression I would suspect timing chain failure. If you don't have compression gauge you could roll engine over until timing mark is at TDC on indicator the remove distributor cap and see if rotor is pointing at either #1 or #6. If it doesn't that also would indicate failed timing chain.
Last edited by Kevova; Feb 22, 2016 at 05:26 PM.
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 10,036
Likes: 346
From: Anaheim CA
The pickup coil should measure around 800 ohms.
Spray starting fluid into the throttle body and then try to start it. If it starts briefly then the ignition system is OK and you should be looking at the fuel system.
Racer
Joined: Oct 2014
Posts: 323
Likes: 21
From: Apache Junction AZ
Yes. I can't remember which thread it was but there is a pic of a by pass harness. I'm thinking of getting one as a backup in case I get stuck somewhere and the VATS attacks! If I see it, I will reference to it. I saw it not long ago on the front page. Maybe someone will chime in. Look on some of the key/ignition threads.
WEK.
WEK.
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