TEST 2: Using Starting Fluid To Diagnose A No-Start Condition
A starting fluid to test can help diagnose a no-start problem that is caused by a lack of fuel. This is a very old school way to test the fuel pump. This test harks back to the days when cars had carburetors on them.
I want to emphasized that this is a test that only verifies that the problem that is caused by a lack of fuel to the engine. It does not confirm, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the fuel pump has failed.
IMPORTANT: Before you start, it is super important that you make sure that all 6 ignition coils fire spark. So if you haven't tested for spark yet, please do so now before you start the test.
These are the test steps:
- 1
Remove the intake air duct from the throttle body. You don't have to completely remove it, since you'll have to reconnect it in step 2.
- 2
Spray starting fluid down the bore of the throttle body. After you spray a good squirt of starting fluid, quickly reconnect the air duct to the throttle body (you don't have to tighten the hose clamp).
- 3
Have your assistant crank the engine once the intake air duct is back on the throttle body.
- 4
You'll get one of two results with this test:
1.) The engine will start momentarily and after a few seconds will die.
2.) The engine will only crank but not start at all.
OK, let's find out what your results mean:
CASE 1: The engine did not start, not even momentarily. This test result lets you conclude that your 2.7L Chrysler Sebring or Dodge Stratus' no-start problem IS NOT due to a lack of fuel.
CASE 2: The engine started but died after a few seconds. This test result lets you conclude that your 2.7L Chrysler Sebring or Dodge Stratus' no-start problem IS due to a lack of fuel.
Your next step is to check the fuel pump's pressure with a fuel pressure gauge to confirm the fuel pump is bad.
Where To Buy The Fuel Pump And Save
If you find that the fuel pump is defective, take a look at the following links. I think you'll save quite a bit on the fuel pump by buying it online.
FUEL PUMPS FOR 2001-2002 2.7L V6 SEBRING (Sedan) AND STRATUS (Sedan):
FUEL PUMPS FOR 2003-2006 2.7L V6 SEBRING AND STRATUS:
More 2.7L V6 Chrysler And Dodge Tutorials
You can find a complete list of 2.7L Dodge tutorials in this index:
Here's a small sample of the tutorials you'll find in the index:
- How To Test The Blower Motor (2001-2006 Dodge Stratus).
- How To Test The Throttle Position Sensor (2.7L V6 Chrysler).
- How To Test The MAP Sensor (2000-2004 2.7L Chrysler).
- How To Test Engine Compression (2.7L V6 Chrysler).
If this info saved the day, buy me a beer!
