timing

[rix444]

I've developed a horrible series of sounds and knocking, when I can get this started. Usually, it won't start. I suspect my timing has 'jumped' I'm getting spark, but engine won't fire. Is there an easy way to check, or do I pull the engine and reveal the timing gears / chain?

[Bjornboy81]

It could be the crank position sensor or cam postion sensor that went on it. I'd definetly check into these before pulling the motor or course. What kind of codes is it throwing if any?

[rix444]

ok, it maybe could be. how do I check those? Since it's not starting, I'm getting no 'check engine' indicator. and.. if they are 'out', how would I be getting a spark?

[Prospeeder]

Soyou are getting Spark and Fuel, if your getting spark then its most definatly Not a crank positioning sensor, they cut all spark

So you really have to pull the engine to check the timing??

[voyager]

check your coils and your ignition control module. .? that much is easy to get to. the resistance in the coils should all be pretty close to each other ( 6ohms maybe? gotta look that up ) and the ICM i think autozone etc. can check for you, or replace with a known good part to see if it's the problem. it could cause intermittent no-start and intermittent really bad idle etc if it's bad.

[rix444]

read above. I'm getting a good spark. Coils, plugs, wires are not the issue.

[Prospeeder]

Well see if your getting fuel, spray starter fluid in the TB and see if it runs for a second, look towards a fuel pump

[voyager]

do you get an RPM signal on the tach ( do you have a tach? ) when you crank the engine? if you don't, check the ignition module. if you do, then it's probably fuel related. you'd want to check the fuel pressure and the injectors..

you don't have to pull the engine to change the timing chain.. you take off the motor mounts, brackets, ball joint, control arm, oil pan, etc. and pull it from the wheel well. i'd check out fuel/electrical systems before going at a project like that.. i think a scan tool would be the only way to check the timing without physically inspecting the chain. a bad PCM signal for example could make the car act like the timing was off, and it's more likely than the chain jumping.