93 Van 3.3 Starting problem

Lately, I'm having a problem starting my van. It's intermittent, but I
think it's a sign of something beginning to go bad. I'll turn the key and
it will crank but not start. I then turn the key to off and then try it
again and it'll start. As I said, it doesn't happy every time, but it seems
to be heading in that direction. The fuel pump has been replaced about 4
weeks ago along with the filter. Fuel rail has been replaced about 2 months
ago. I'm thinking maybe the ignition switch starting to go bad. Any ideas
?

thanks,
Nick

 

Assume it's an ignition problem. To verify this, disconnect the cable
from the center of the distributor and hold it about 1/8 inch from any
part of the engine (use gloves so you won't get zapped). Have someone
crank the engine and see if there is any spark. If there isn't, you
then have to find where the B+ (12 volts) is not being applied. Use a
multimeter or neon light to determine how far the B+ is getting.
Start with the + terminal to the ignition coil, then work your way
back to the ignition switch. It's best if you have a wiring diagram
for your car so you are not guessing as to the circuitry and don't
have to resort to the "shotgun" repair method where you're sort of
guessing what component is bad and then replacing it, finding that was
not the problem. Intermittent problems are tough; you have to try to
recreate the scenario where it seems to fail, if possible. I like it
when they finally become a 100% failure, so then you can track it down
without a hassle.

 

I have had that same problem with mine and was told its the relay for
the fuel pump or the auto shutdown relay, seems the plug that goes into
the relay gets dirty and doesn't allow enough voltage to get through to
the pump.
I was told this and that this was a common problem with this year and
the type of plugs.
I tend to believe it as I know I had to clean up these contacts a few
years ago.

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Thanks, but they put a new fuel pump in and the wiring when it quit on
vacation. Do you happen to know where these relays are so I can check and
clean them ? The new wiring (from the fuel pump) plugs into a connector on
the drivers side along the frame towards the back of the vehicle, but I'm
not sure if this is what you are talking about. And yes, these intermittent
problems are difficult to track down.

Thanks,
Nick

 

First off to the guy that said pull the wire from the center of the
distributors cap, I have the same van and engine combo and I don't have
a distributor, let a lone a cap.

the relays are right by the battery, there is a bank of them, I forget
which one is which but I bet they are all dirty, 2 screws allows you to
pull the whole bank out.

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thanks for the reply... I also noticed the reply about the distributor but
did not reply. I'll check the relays.

thanks,
Nick