1991 CRX Si - Cranks but won't start.
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1991 CRX Si - Cranks but won't start.
So my CRX has been dead for nearly two years. I recently started working on it. When I garaged it, I could turn it on but had to keep the gas pedal depressed so it would keep on.
After doing research I found the common problems were bad ignitor, ignition coil, or main relay. The main relay definitely is working. I've tested it and can hear it "click" on when I put the key in. Also I can smell the fuel being delivered to the engine when I crank her up.
So I tested the ignitor and it seemed like it was bad, so I replaced that. Also replaced the distributor cap and rotor. Nope. That didn't do the trick. So I tested for spark and had none. I thought, bad ignition coil, tested it, it seemed fine. But I still went out and replaced it. That didn't work, still no spark. The engine just cranks.
So then I returned the ignition coil, and got a refurb distributor. Installed that (I haven't done any timing adjustments) and now the puppy almost starts...which is more progress than before. It's like it's trying to turn on, and I can feel the engine almost catching, but it doesn't ever fully get going.
Should I adjust the timing? Is it even possible without the engine turning on? What should be the next step? Also, I can provide more details if this wasn't enough. (Battery is fine as I just purchased a new one).
Thanks.
After doing research I found the common problems were bad ignitor, ignition coil, or main relay. The main relay definitely is working. I've tested it and can hear it "click" on when I put the key in. Also I can smell the fuel being delivered to the engine when I crank her up.
So I tested the ignitor and it seemed like it was bad, so I replaced that. Also replaced the distributor cap and rotor. Nope. That didn't do the trick. So I tested for spark and had none. I thought, bad ignition coil, tested it, it seemed fine. But I still went out and replaced it. That didn't work, still no spark. The engine just cranks.
So then I returned the ignition coil, and got a refurb distributor. Installed that (I haven't done any timing adjustments) and now the puppy almost starts...which is more progress than before. It's like it's trying to turn on, and I can feel the engine almost catching, but it doesn't ever fully get going.
Should I adjust the timing? Is it even possible without the engine turning on? What should be the next step? Also, I can provide more details if this wasn't enough. (Battery is fine as I just purchased a new one).
Thanks.
#3
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Re: 1991 CRX Si - Cranks but won't start.
don't bother fartin around with the ignition timing just yet. put the distributor in the center of its adjustment range and then go check your mechanical timing.
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Re: 1991 CRX Si - Cranks but won't start.
Hey guys, both your suggestions worked. When I tried adjusting the distributor to its max range it wouldn't start. When I put the distributor in the middle it turned on and stayed on! Now it's running like an actual car. Adjusted the timing, now just need to change the oil and take her to the closest gas station for a wash. Yes!
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