Engine cranking but not starting?

Hi,

How old is the fuel in the vehicle? Will it start with starting fluid? If it does and then stalls, we know there is a fuel-related issue. If there is no change, I need you to check for spark at the plugs.

Here is a link that explains how to do it:

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

Please understand, this vehicle isn't offered in the US, so I don't have specific information. However, the above test will point us in the right direction.

Let me know.

Joe

Hi Joe,

Thanks for the reply. I can confirm it does start with starter fluid, then stalls. I did try a couple of times, once holding revs around 4,000 RPMs it stayed for about 20 seconds until I tried to let it idle, then it stalled.

The fuel in the car will most likely be 10 years old.

The old fuel is the problem. The only thing to do at this point would be to drain the tank and blow out the lines. Then, refill the tank with fresh fuel. I suspect it will start and run good at that point. Fuel goes bad with time, so this is my first suspect.

Let me know if you are comfortable doing it.

Joe

Hi Joe,

Thanks. I only have a small amount in the tank (see picture). Would I be ok putting larger amount of fuel on top of this? Or is it imperative that I drain it?

Cheers
James

Hi,

If you add fuel, it will take a while for the old fuel in the line to clear out, so it will be a delayed start. You may have to keep it running with starting fluid for a bit.

When fuel gets old, it will burn, but it won't allow the vehicle to run. It turns into almost a varnish.

The best thing to do is drain it and blow out the fuel lines and fuel rail. That way fresh fuel will be sent right away. I've also seen people here disconnect the fuel line at the fuel rail and cycle the key on and off to allow the pump to empty the tank. You could do that. Just make sure you have a gas container to empty it into. It will come out fast, but you will be emptying the fuel tank and fuel lines at the same time.

Let me know.

Joe

Hi Joe,

I added a lot more fuel on top and it wouldn’t start. So, I tried running it through with starter fluid and it wouldn't even start with starter fluid now.

I went out and bought some new spark plugs which I have fitted this morning…she is up and running no problem now!

Thanks for the assistance with this.

Hi,

Excellent! I'm glad to hear it's running. I suspect the old fuel fouled the spark plugs that were in the vehicle. Like you, I have vehicles in storage. I make sure to drive them a few hundred miles per year to keep things fresh. Also, if you can find fuel without Ethanol, use it. Ethanol can damage rubber components in the fuel system, and it causes the fuel to go bad much faster. They have it for sale here in very few places, but that is what I put in the older vehicles I keep in storage.

Take good care of yourself, my friend. Feel free to come back anytime in the future. You are always welcome here.

Joe