Expert: Robert Summers - 7/8/2008

Question
I have a '93 Astro Van with a V6 auto.  I drove it home and now it won't start.  The headlights and horn don't work.  The engine will crank but not start.  I sprayed gas in the inlet of the throttle body and it started, so I know it has spark.  Of course when I stopped spraying the gas, the engine stopped.  The battery is up (it's been charged).  I have checked all the fuses and they are good.  The instrument lights work and the turn signals work.

Answer
Hi Rick... check the fuel pump...when you turn key on you should hear pump run for 3 seconds...try tapping on the fuel tank with a rubber mallet...sometimes they get stuck...if that doesn't help, you will need to check for power at the pump...make sure fuse and relay for fuel pump are ok...if you have power at the pump when you turn key on it should only have power for the 3 seconds...if all is ok then replace the pump...there is a fuel pump test wire under the hood on the drivers side in the wiring harness... it will be a single wire with a female plug on it...it should trace back to the fuel pump relay..if you put 12 volts to that wire if pump is ok it should come on...if it doesn't replace pump... hope this helps