87 Wagon SR5 won't start...Help

[Johnrichard]

Hi I'm new. I've been reading around and trying to figure out my problem myself. I purchased a 1987 Wagon SR5 a few weeks ago. It was a little hard to start after I got it home. It was a little rough at start up but after it ran for a while it smoothed out and idled fine. But now it won't start at all. It tries to start but won't. You can tap the gas a little or hold it and it still won't start. Anyone have any ideas what the problem/s could be? I don't know anything about these cars.

[Petros]

welcome to the list! where are you at?

Only two reason the car will not run, no spark (at the right time) and no fuel. a few quicks tests: pull a spark plug wire, hold it close to the engine and have someone crank it. IF you have a strong bluish spark than it is must be fuel. if no spark than it is something in the distributor, bad coil or igniter. check all your electrical connectors to the distributor (green plug) and quality of spark plug wires, pull the cap and inspect the rotor and contacts in the distributor cap.

If you have spark, it might be no fuel. Spray starter fluid into the carb, or some gasoline, and see if it starts and runs briefly. If it does it means you are not getting fuel to the carb. IF that is case you have to check your fuel pump for function, look for a leak in the fuel line ahead of the fuel pump (it will cause it to suck air). You might also change the fuel filter on the left fender below the brake master cylinder), they are inexpensive and might be plugged up.

Check these out and get back to us what you find. WE will help you through the next step.

Good luck.