Won't start

[SHOed_up]

My 94 MTX won't start. It turns over fine, fuel pump can be heard before trying to crank it, battery is pretty new. When I do crank it over it sounds like it fires very briefly and is about to start...then doesn't, continued cranking doesn't seem to do anything. I tried pulling KOEO codes, and I think I got 511, 116, and 114. I didn't do the KOER test for obvious reasons...
The 114 explains why I've been having some issues with stalling lately, so that's nice to know. Not sure if the other codes would have anything to do with my no-start condition though.

Any other info you think would help just ask and I'll do my best.

Thanks for any help SHOforum!

 

[Bruce M]

What lead to the car not starting? Did you do any work to it? Was this a gradual thing? That 511 is a code that I have never had but have seen in others, it refers to pin 1 of the PCM, not getting power or no power. That would be a huge red flag to me. The other codes would not prevent start up. Do the basics first, check for fuel, and spark. If you have no spark check for a good ground at the DIS, in fact make sure that you have a good ground from the motor to Neg bat, and to chassis before you do anything. Fords are very famous for bad grounds causing all kinds of intermitting problems, my Ranger acted up because of a bad ground. A bad and or high impedance chassis ground could cause that 511 code.

 

[projectSHO89]

114 and 116 codes are due to your cold weather (< 50F). Ignore as they are not relevant and cannot cause a no-start condition.

The 511 code is most commonly due to an after market chip installed on the PCM. If you have an LPM or similar, remove it for the duration of the diagnosis.

Fuel, air, or spark. One is missing. Once you figure out which, you'll have your first clue for your diagnosis.

Personally, I'd be suspicious of low fuel pressure based on your reported symptoms....... A fuel pressure guage would be the next tool I'd reach for.

Steve

Steve

 

[93rev2sev]

If there is an aftermarket chip, remove it(or at least make sure it is well seated). It'll probably start right up.

 

[projectSHO89]

If there is an aftermarket chip, remove it(or at least make sure it is well seated). It'll probably start right up.

Didn't I just say that?

Steve

 

[SHOed_up]

114 and 116 codes are due to your cold weather (< 50F). Ignore as they are not relevant and cannot cause a no-start condition.

The 511 code is most commonly due to an after market chip installed on the PCM. If you have an LPM or similar, remove it for the duration of the diagnosis.

Steve

Steve

If there is an aftermarket chip, remove it(or at least make sure it is well seated). It'll probably start right up.

You're both right! Disconnected the computer power cord, pulled my LPM, and noticed that while I thought I had done a good job cleaning out the connector when I originally installed it some years ago, apparently I didn't do that good a job as I found some yellowish grease on the top set of pins

She started on the first try without the LPM. I just came inside to get some paper towels and rubbing alcohol to clean the contacts (hopefully I'll do better this time), and wanted to let you know that she's running again.

Thanks again.