went to start it and it just spins then stops?

2008 CHEVROLET SUBURBAN
210,000 MILES • V8 • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
MELISSA BALE
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
My vehicle lost power and engine light came one throwing a code for the timing chain. Since then, we have replaced timing chain, oil pump, starter, battery, thermostat, and fluids. We went to start it, and it just spins then stops. Check engine light is not on! We plan to change crankshaft and camshaft sensors next. We are baffled and need some sort of help with possible repair advice.
Feb 4, 2025 at 8:56 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
I can help you, but can I ask that you upload a short video of what the engine is going? Is it a hard stop, does the engine start and then stop? Where does the noise seem to be coming from? You can upload it here with your response. We need to hear the noise, so we know which direction to go to help you fix the car. It takes time to upload so please be patient.
Feb 4, 2025 at 11:55 AM
Avatar
MELISSA BALE
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
The engine doesn’t start but the belts are all working. This time it did a small quick backfire around the cover.
Feb 4, 2025 at 3:02 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
MELISSA BALE
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
The check engine light is on now and throwing P0116 code.
Feb 4, 2025 at 3:03 PM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
Sorry, there is something wrong with the video, can you try the upload again?

The P0116 code indicates an issue with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Circuit Range/Performance Problem

So, this will not cause the engine to make a noise.
Feb 5, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Avatar
MELISSA BALE
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Someone mentioned frozen gas lines too. We live in MN and it has been sitting for about 4-5 months now.
Feb 5, 2025 at 8:05 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
Strange, the video does not playback. Is this from a phone?
Feb 5, 2025 at 8:37 AM
Avatar
MELISSA BALE
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Yes, it is from an iPhone. I’m sorry! Looks like this vehicle is giving me trouble all the way around.
Feb 5, 2025 at 8:49 AM
Avatar
MELISSA BALE
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
I shortened the video, maybe that will help.
Feb 5, 2025 at 8:53 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
Yep, that helped, the engine has no compression. So, the timing chain marks must have been off, or the valve was bent when the timing chain let go. It might be time for a rebuilt/used engine, sorry about that. :/ here is a video series that can help you tear down and repair the engine if you want to do the job yourself:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyX6FwLYDuc&list=PLe3kz1i_LrtX5402mzO6ovoz8xeUdwZ8B

If you need any other help, please be sure to ask. I am happy to help.
Feb 6, 2025 at 7:58 AM
Avatar
MELISSA BALE
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Thank you for your help!
Feb 6, 2025 at 8:46 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 53,854 POSTS
You are welcome, I am happy to help sorry about the bad news.
Feb 6, 2025 at 9:21 AM