Wont Start

Prog53 · June 14, 2008

1988 Chevy Silverado v8-350

Just replaced the starter because it was not even trying to turn and now its trying hard to get going. Also replaced all spark plugs, wires, dis cap, and rotor button.

All wires and plugs sparking.

Anyone know what I can do?

Alljackedup408 · June 15, 2008

fuel maybe?

Prog53 · June 15, 2008

just replaced fuel filter and checked pressure. its working fine.

cammiller · June 15, 2008

did you have a close look at the pick up coil and reluctor when you changed the dist stuff? Is there lots of green stuff around the ign module? What did you use to test the spark? Let me know.

Prog53 · June 15, 2008

I didnt see any green stuff.

I tested the spark by taking the plug out and grounding the side and seeing if a spark occured and each one did.

Prog53 · June 15, 2008

Is this the right diagram to setup wires and distributor?

cammiller · June 15, 2008

Basically, yes. But the picture of the rotor seems to be advanced too far. #1 usually is where the #2 is on the diagran.

Prog53 · June 16, 2008

So that rotor diagram all the wires need to be moved to the right one?

or just switch one and two?

95Sierra2500 · June 16, 2008

Move all wires to the right 1 spot. That should fix your problem.

Prog53 · June 16, 2008

It did work.

Now its starting, but wont stay going for more than a few seconds. Im using starter fluid and tapping the gas.

95Sierra2500 · June 16, 2008

Did it run okay BEFORE you installed the new starter, before the old one quit working?

cammiller · June 16, 2008

Very good question. I would like to know as well.

Prog53 · June 16, 2008

Really roughly.

I traced the problem back to the fuel pump.

I took the fuel filter off and tried starting the truck and no pressure, no fuel came out.

Means it doesnt work right?

cammiller · June 16, 2008

I would take a rubber mallet, or boot or something like that and HIT the bottom of the tank hard while having someone try to start it. If it runs, replace the fuel pump. If not, check the wiring to the pump making sure it is getting power and ground, and if so, replace the pump.