AboutRoland Finston Expertise I take questions about domestic Chrysler-product front wheel drive cars and minivans for the years 1982-2000 based upon my experience and shop manuals. I don't have detailed information (e.g. manuals) nor expertise for Jeeps, trucks, SUV's, import vehicles, or for years more recent than 2000 (except Sebring/Stratus I have '03).
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Experience I have been a do-it-yourself auto hobbyist for 5 decades, and most recently have been concentrating on the various Chrysler Corporation domestic front wheel drive cars and vans. I have shop manuals and wiring diagrams for many models for the years '83-'00, as well as rear wheel drive cars for the early 80's. I enjoy analyzing problems that other Chrysler enthusiasts are having and sharing my information.
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Expert: Roland Finston Date: 7/22/2008 Subject: 88 voyager stalled wont restart no spark
Question yesterday while driving on the hwy our van stalled while turning a corner and would not restart when you turn the key she tries real hard but there seems to be no spark. tried to start the van in neutral as well with no luck. also checked to see if the fuel pump was engaging when you when you first turn the key hubby listened and said it was coming on we checked for fault codes and all we got was 55 which i know is end of read out. we do however have a loose steering column not sure whether that is relevant or not but figured i would mention it. hubby thinks it might be ignition coil or maybe a timing belt that might be causing the no the spark thing. we did do a spark plug change in the spring of this year as well Is there anything we should also check, like the water pump maybe?
Answer Hi Debbie,
Which engine do you have?
The timing belt can be checked on most engines by removing the inspection coner for it on the top front of the engine. If you have a distributor check to see if the rotor shaft is turning would be another approach.
Have you actually checked for spark using an insulated handle screwdriver inserted into one of the spark plug caps so the tip touches the internal wire? Hold the handle and the cap and place the shaft of the screwdriver 1/4" from the cylinder head while a helper tries to crank it over, and observe for spark.
Keep checking for a code as it might come up shortly.
I would suggest taking a look at the egr valve if your engine has one. It is located in a small pipe between the exhaust manifold and the throttle body. If you find it, check that the stem, located in the flange area between the body of the valve and its round vacuum cap, moves freely and closes tightly with the help of spring-action: insert the tip of your screwdriver into the slot of the valve stem and use that to lever the stem up and down. Lubricate it with WD-40 if it is not closing to a dead stop. A slightly ajar valve will prevent starting.
The only other non-code/no start item I have experienced is a faulty MAP sensor which can go inaccurate without setting a code, but try all the other things above first, and let me know your engine. You can get back quickly via the "thank and rate" tab where there is a comments section. I will get it and respond.
The water pump is not relevant for a no start, nor is the steering column unless one of the interconnect plugs at its base has opened up.
Roland
