Re: Update on question running on 3 cyl.

[trnsfrma@ix.netcom.com (Shawn C. Meze)]

At 05:49 PM 12/16/96 -0500, you wrote:
>I tried disconnecting the wires one at a time from the distributer,it
>provided no difinite answer.  All four cylinders when thier wires were
>disconnected provided appox the same result.  I am thinking that I am not
>running on 3 cyl, but 4 poor cyl.  Where should I start looking? Haynes says
>to inspect spark plugs  for physical damage.  My question is  How do you
>inspect the sparkplug's spark?  Someone poseted about turning over the
>crank... how is this done?  These procedures are not outlined in Haynes and
>the ones that are are done poorly.  
>Adding to the list of complaints regarding the Haynes manual, it really
>doesn't show how to examine the dist. on my car.   It concentrates on much
>older models.  Could anyone outline the section on examining the dist.?  This
>seems to be a likly culprit as it has never been replaced/rebuilt.
>Thanks again


Oh, you were asking me how to check the spark earlier? I thought you were asking me 
how to remove the plug from the head. 
You can check the spark without the plug. Simply hold the wire close to the block 
and have someone crank the motor a few times. (No need to start it) If you see a 
spark, its probably ok. If the spark looks weak, its somet
hing in the ifnition system. 
Your problem requires alot of diagnostic schecks to narrow the problem down to the 
main reason. You could take it to a shop and have them run an engine diagnostic for 
you for about $50 and then you could fix the problem y
ourself. That would be easier than quessing what your seeing is a good spark or a 
bad one. If you have little mechanical experience, then you might want to take this 
option to get your car running right, sooner. 
If im checking into a motor that is running on 3 cylinders (I have done it too) I 
would:

Id start with the ignition system. (Use an ohm meter to check as specified in the 
book.) Coil test. Spark test. Spark plug wires. Plugs.

Then the intake system. Check for vacume leaks. Theyre hard to spot. Easy to hide 
from you.

Fuel system check, injectors, fuel pressure.

Then get into the motor, compression check. Leak down test. 

its going to be one of these things have failed you or are beginning to fail. 
How about some detailed info on how its running. You want detailed anwsers, I want 
detailed info on when it runs on 3 cylinders. Hows the idle at start up. How is it 
when your ready to shut it off. All that. Details are important if you want accurate 
help. Im not a mind reader, so you got to help me, help you. That goes for 
everybody. I cant help you if you post a vague message. 
I kinda sound pissed after I re-read that. Im not, its all just meant in a "matter 
of fact" way.


The saga continues..........


Shawn
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