[MrBigC]

I just bought an 89 isuzu pickup over the weekend. It's a little rough around the edges, but seems to have a strong powertrain. I've had a sporadic problem with the ignition, though. Twice when I've gone to start it up, it just turns over and over and over. After looking it over, I couldn't find anything obvious and just got frustrated and left it. When I came back the next day, it started right up. I'm positive it's getting fuel, and it turns over really strong - it just won't fire up. I've noticed both times that it didn't start, it was fairly cold out. The dizzy cap, wires, and plugs are all brand new. I'm confused because it starts right up about 8 out of 10 times. Where should I look next? Thanks!

-Colin

 

[Faren]

Next time it won't start check to make sure it isn't getting spark. Pull out the plug and ground it, or use a spark tester.
It is a 2.6 I assume?

 

[Rude_Dog]

...I've had a sporadic problem with the ignition, though. Twice when I've gone to start it up, it just turns over and over and over. After looking it over, I couldn't find anything obvious and just got frustrated and left it. When I came back the next day, it started right up. I'm positive it's getting fuel, and it turns over really strong - it just won't fire up. I've noticed both times that it didn't start, it was fairly cold out. The dizzy cap, wires, and plugs are all brand new. I'm confused because it starts right up about 8 out of 10 times. Where should I look next? Thanks!-Colin

It wouldn't hurt to mention which engine you're working on. Immediately during the period when it won't start, how are you sure it's getting fuel? For that matter, since the problem usually shows when it's cold, how are you sure you're getting enough fuel? When it fails to start, check for spark as prescribed above. Fuel delivery checks will depend on what engine you're working on.

 

[MrBigC]

Yep, sorry - I completely forgot to mention - it's the 2.6 litre w/ FI. On my way to get a spark tester and fuel pressure gauge now. Also going to check fuel pump to make sure it comes on when key is in "on" position. Found a broken vaccum hose - fixed, but no luck.

 

[ZU]

Yep, sorry - I completely forgot to mention - it's the 2.6 litre w/ FI. ]Also going to check fuel pump to make sure it comes on when key is in "on" position. .

be careful with that. on my old 2.6 the pump didn't come on until you went to "start" or the alternator was putting out power.

 

[MrBigC]

Sorry for the late follow-up on this one. Turns out the fuel pump was the problem. I was replacing the filter - while I had the fuel line off, I decided to try and turn it over. No fuel pushed out the line. Checked to make sure it was getting power (which it was), so I replaced the pump. All is well now. Thanks for your help!